During its latest earnings call, Pearl Abyss has revealed that its upcoming title, Crimson Desert, has been delayed to 2026. “The launch of Crimson Desert, our first large-scale AAA console game, has been unavoidably delayed by one quarter, from the previously announced schedule. This is due to longer than expected timelines arising from schedule coordination and collaborations with multiple partners for offline distribution, voice-overs, console certification, and other launch preparations. We sincerely apologize for not being able to meet the originally promised fourth quarter launch schedule. Please kindly understand that this is a strategic decision aimed at insuring success on a meaningful scale.”

Crimson Desert delayed to Q1 2026

“This is due to longer than expected timelines arising from schedule coordination and collaborations with multiple partners for offline distribution, voice-overs, console certification, and other launch preparations.”

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— Wario64 (@Wario64) August 13, 2025

Crimson Desert is an open-world, action-adventure set in the beautiful yet brutal continent of Pywel. The story follows Kliff, leader of the Greymanes, and his mission that will take him on an incredible journey.

Pearl Abyss provided an update on where the game is now and the marketing plan. “Currently, Crimson Desert has been in the process of voice-overs, while also carrying out tasks such as console certification in preparation for its release. In the case of marketing, we plan to participate in Gamescom and PAX West this August to showcase our open-world build. And in September, we will join the Tokyo Game Show to strengthen our marketing efforts in the Japanese market.”

“The release date has been internally confirmed for Q1 2026,” Pearl Abyss said. “However, given the change in launch timing, we will announce the date at a more appropriate time based on business considerations, rather than making an announcement at Gamescom next week. We are grateful for your continued interest in our company, and we will do our utmost to deliver an even better experience going forward.”

How time flies!

Only 1️⃣ week left until we kick off #gamescom with @geoffkeighley ‘s legendary gamescom #OpeningNightLive! pic.twitter.com/y3qXUHUGos

— gamescom (@gamescom) August 12, 2025

Gamescom begins with Opening Night Live on Tuesday, August 19, at 11 AM PT / 2 PM ET / 8 PM CEST. Gamescom itself will run from August 20-24.