Other playable characters are on the program
We therefore begin by knowing a little more about our protagonist, Kliff, whose story will begin on these celestial islands which float everywhere above the continent of Pywel.
Kliff is described as an experienced warrior who belongs to the group of Gray Manes, who are sort of the good Samaritans of the Pailune area. Very attached to his companions, whom he considers as his family, our hero will find himself separated from them while the peace of his home is threatened by the Black Bears, another faction. You will search for survivors to reform your group, while resolving various problems within Pywel. Particularly that of the Abyss, whose forces are gradually beginning to invade the world.
But Kliff will actually not be the only playable character. You will be able to take control of two other characters (visibly two members of the Gray Manes) to navigate this world outside of the main quests. Each of the characters will have their own fighting style, and it will be up to you to choose who to control to carry out various activities or side quests.
Pywel will be divided into five regionsnamely:
- Hernand: A mountainous starting area with rivers
- Pailune: The northernmost area, which is home to the Criières Grises
- Déméniss: The center of the continent, where the destiny of the nation is at stake
- Délésyie: A region where science and technology are very important
- Purple Desert: A vast wilderness
This video gives us an overview of the title map, which provides information on the quests linked to the different factions. Some of these factions will be hostile to you, and you will have to dislodge them from their camps to make the region safer for the rest of the inhabitants. This mode can be explored via various means of transport, going from the classic horse to the more surprising robot, including a dragon.
Crimson Desert will be available from March 19, 2026 on PC via Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series.