It’s hard not to raise an eyebrow at games that promise wonders. In the video game industry, disappointments are common, especially when a title displays excessive ambitions. However, Crimson Desert, developed by Pearl Abyss, seems to have escaped this trap. Tested on PC before its official release scheduled for March 19 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, the game displays a solid proposition, despite some rough edges.
In the shoes of Kliff Macduff, players discover a gigantic open world, rich in activities and confrontations. If the narration does not stand out as the strong point of the game, the overall experience is based on dense gameplay and a living universe which captivate from the first hours.
Crimson Desert gameplay, an impressive but demanding combat system
What is immediately striking is the richness of the combat system. The clashes are not limited to a few repetitive blows. Each enemy requires a different approach, and the possibilities for action are numerous. “There is very little guidance in Crimson Desert, either in combat or exploration. This is very refreshing, especially when there isn’t always a step-by-step guide on what to do next and how to do it. » This freedom can be disconcerting. The game never takes the player by the hand, which reinforces its demanding side.
A steep learning curve that can destabilize
The first few hours can be surprising, even discouraging. The content is dense, the mechanics numerous and the absence of certain modern aids is felt. “It can seem intimidating at first, especially with an extremely steep learning curve in the first part of the game, the amount of things to do, its vastness, and the lack of some convenience features like automatic inventory management. » But once this phase has passed, the game reveals all its richness. Exploration becomes more fluid, movement improves and pleasure takes over.
A gigantic and vibrant open world to explore freely
Crimson Desert impresses with the scale of its universe. Each area offers different activities, between intense combat and lighter tasks. “But it’s well worth it to take your time and adapt to what’s required, because you have complete freedom to do and explore whatever you want. »
The quests constantly vary: face formidable enemies, help inhabitants or complete unexpected missions. This rhythm helps give the game a unique identity. “Each player will have their own unique experiences and learning as they play makes Crimson Desert incredibly fun.” »
Graphics and performance, an impressive but imperfect spectacle
Visually, Crimson Desert offers spectacular scenery. The environments, battles and staging impress, especially on a large scale. But as you get closer, certain defects appear: less detailed textures, irregular lighting or even late appearance of elements on the screen. Imperfections which remind us that the game remains a very ambitious project. Despite this, performance on PC remains solid, with no major slowdowns. The soundtrack makes a lasting impression, accompanying each moment with precision.