Five bucks for a serious contender for game of the year. The idea seems almost absurd, and yet, since February 24, 2026, an offer has attracted the attention of PC players: Crimson Desert could be found in a mystery pack sold for $4.99 by Fanatical.
While the AAA action-adventure game developed by Pearl Abyss will be released on March 19 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, a surprise bundle promises three games for the price of a coffee. Among the titles potentially included is Crimson Desert, which turns the offer into a real gamble.
Crimson Desert, a serious contender for the GOTY 2026 title
It’s still early to talk about game of the year, especially against juggernauts like Grand Theft Auto VI from Rockstar Games. However, Crimson Desert regularly comes up in discussions.
The game follows Kliff, who is tasked with rebuilding the order of Greymanes after its destruction by the Black Bears. The synopsis states: “But on a journey where alliances are forged, dangers abound and mysterious factions are exposed, Kliff will come to understand that an unprecedented threat and a destiny greater than he imagined await him.”
The announced world would be immense, presented as twice as large as that of Skyrim and larger than that of Red Dead Redemption 2. Comparisons with The Witcher 3 or God of War fuel the enthusiasm. One comment sums up the ambivalence around the project: “Either it will be the game of the year or the biggest flop in the industry.”
A gigantic world and AAA ambitions assumed
Crimson Desert promises main quests, side missions, hidden secrets and boss fights. Pearl Abyss has provided numerous detailed presentations to reassure players about the solidity of the project. Presented at Gamescom 2024, the game has already been tested by certain journalists. Feedback suggests solid gameplay, despite some visual effects sometimes considered excessive. With a standard edition at 54.99 pounds / $69.99 and a collector’s edition at 64.99 pounds / $79.99, the price positioning confirms its AAA ambition.
The Fanatical mystery pack for $4.99, how it works
Fanatical is currently offering a VIP Mystery Pack for $4.99 or £4.99. The principle is simple: three games are allocated randomly after purchase. The particularity lies in the uncertainty. You don’t choose your titles. Fanatical indicates, however, that AAA games are included in the selection, including Crimson Desert. The probability of hitting the flagship title remains unknown, and probably low. Other games may also appear, such as Nioh 3, Reanimal or Resident Evil Requiem.
Should you try your luck before the March 19 release
At $4.99, the financial risk remains limited. Even without getting Crimson Desert, the buyer receives three games. For those who were planning to pre-order the game at full price, the offer may seem tempting. For others, the bundle represents above all a fun lottery at low cost, with the hope of getting their hands on one of the most anticipated titles of the spring.