Crimson Desert DLC Set for Release This Year; Pearl Abyss “Open” to Sequels
It’s no secret that Pearl Abyss is hard at work on DLC for Crimson Desert. While the developers haven’t really shared details about it, that doesn’t mean it’s far off.
Today, the studio confirmed something that should excite players of the RPG, as there’s more to experience about it outside of the countless updates that have been released so far.
Not only that, but the devs also talked about the future of the brand as well.
Crimson Desert DLC Confirmed for Release in 2026
In Pearl Abyss’ quarterly financial report, the studio confirmed they are targeting the RPG’s expansion for release sometime in 2026, stating, “We are currently developing the fi rst DLC with the goal of delivering a new gameplay experience, targeting a release within this year. Details regarding its structure, pricing, and exact release schedule will be shared during the third quarter.”
While the studio is planning to release the DLC this year, it’s not set in stone yet, as the studio added, “Please note that plans regarding the total number of DLCs and their release cadence have not yet been finalized, as our primary focus is on ensuring the quality and successful execution of the first DLC. Subsequent DLC releases and operational plans will be determined based on a comprehensive evaluation of user feedback, sales trends, development resources, and company-wide pipelines.”
In the same report, Pearl Abyss acknowledged the interest in adding multiplayer to the game, but it’s not an easy task. “Given Crimson Desert’s dynamic action combat and expansive open-world structure, there is significant potential for expansion into multiplayer modes. However, integrating multiplayer functionality is far more complex than simply adding a new game mode; it represents a major technical initiative that requires comprehensive evaluation of server architecture, game balance, cross-platform stability, and live service operation models.”
Crimson Desert Switch 2 Version Releasing in First Half of 2027
Another thing to look forward to is the Switch 2 version of the RPG. About a month ago, the developers confirmed they were working on it, and today in the same report, we now have a tentative release window.
Pearl Abyss said, “We are striving to make Crimson Desert available across as many platforms as possible. However, platform expansion is not merely a straightforward port; the key requirement is ensuring that the game’s graphics, combat action, and seamless open-world experience are fully preserved on each target device.”
Adding to the statement, the devs mentioned the Q1 2027 release window: “In the case of Switch 2, while optimization is required, the game is currently playable at a foundational level, and technical evaluations are underway to ensure performance optimization and compliance with our quality standards. While it is difficult to confirm a definitive launch schedule at this time, we are working toward a release targeted for the first half of 2027. We will provide updates through our official channels once details are finalized.”
Crimson Desert Sequels a Possibility
Finally, Pearl Abyss also talked about Crinson Desert as a brand, and how they are developing sequels for the gamr.
“Crimson Desert is not a one-off title, but a core flagship IP of our company designed for long term growth and expansion. Accordingly, while we remain open to various possibilities—including add-on content, platform expansion, and sequel titles—our immediate development priority is centered on Crimson Desert DLCs and our next pipelines,” the studio said.
Given how well Crimson Desert has sold so far, I’m assuming that Pearl Abyss is looking ahead to make a sequel.
Hopefully we hear more about the DLC soon, and with gamescom happening later this month, that would be the perfect venue to announce its release date and price, before releasing it a few weeks or months later.
