With Crimson Desert, another game that will make the hearts of monster hunters beat faster is expected to be released in 2025. Many elements that characterize Monster Hunter Wilds can also be found in the latest work by Pearl Abyss.
What kind of game is Crimson Desert? Crimson Desert is an upcoming action-adventure game with an open world from the game studio Pearl Abyss. Pearl Abyss is primarily known for their successful MMORPG Black Desert, and this signature is visually reflected in their new work as well. According to current information, it is expected to be released at the end of 2025, but a specific release date is still pending.
You take on the role of Kliff, the leader of the so-called gray manes, fighting for peace in the war-torn continent of Pywel. Stylistically, the game has many influences reminiscent of Vikings and Celts.
The gameplay shown so far displays many elements that align with those found in the Monster Hunter series. Here’s why this game could also be a hit for you as monster hunter fans.
You can find the gameplay trailer for Crimson Desert here:
Crimson Desert vs. Monster Hunter
Why might Crimson Desert also appeal to fans of Monster Hunter? On one hand, Crimson Desert, like Monster Hunter, places a huge emphasis on gigantic and intense boss battles. In grand presentations, you often battle against human opponents, but also against massive, imaginative creatures. They confront you in demanding clashes, so the typical monster hunter feeling can quickly arise here.
Although Crimson Desert appears to be tailored for solo players, the developers at Pearl Abyss come from the MMO world (Black Desert Online). This is reflected in the gameplay shown so far: the equipment system appears extensive and versatile, offering suitable weapons and approaches for many types of players. From swords to axes to pistols, mini-cannons, and spells, it seems like just about everything is available.
You can equip yourself with various weapons, use magic, and employ gadgets like a grappling hook in combat. Gradually, you improve your equipment and become stronger over time. Powerful counters and well-timed dodges also play a significant role. This versatility is appreciated by monster hunters and makes their favorite series particularly special. Whether there will ever be online features is still unknown.
Here you get an impression of the epic battles:
Where Monster Hunter games are usually very gameplay-focused, Crimson Desert aims to maintain a balanced mix between story, exploration, and combat. Thus, the title could potentially fill a gap for fans of Monster Hunter, especially if they found the story a bit lacking so far.
Moreover, the open world of Crimson Desert is said to offer a bit more to do, as you can tame mounts, fish, solve puzzles, and climb walls and trees in a “parkour” manner.
If Crimson Desert delivers on its promises, it could be the next big title after Monster Hunter Wilds that sneaks into the hearts of monster hunters. Did you previously have Crimson Desert on your radar? Does it sound interesting to you as fans of Monster Hunter? Feel free to let us know in the comments.
Initial reactions to Crimson Desert are very positive. Many of the approaches seem to be well implemented and offer a lot of fun, so they even speak of another game hit for the year 2025. What was most liked and what still needs to be improved before the release can be read here: Initial impressions praise the new action RPG, it could be the next hit in 2025 after Kingdom Come and Monster Hunter
