UPDATE (12/10/2020 @ 11:55pm ET): Since Pearl Abyss seems to have shifted directions with Crimson Desert, there's a bit of confusion as to whether it's still an MMORPG. We reached out for a comment – here's what we heard back:
"Officially it is an 'open world action adventure' game. Crimson Desert will have multiplayer gameplay and continue the Pearl Abyss tradition of a massive MMO-style world, but there's a big focus on creating more narrative and single-player activities… But like past Pearl Abyss games, single player and multiplayer content is all connected."
Original story below.
During The Game Awards, Pearl Abyss finally revealed a new gameplay trailer for its upcoming RPG, Crimson Desert. Unlike Black Desert Online, its MMO predecessor, this time around Pearl Abyss is focusing on narrative-driven single-player action – while finding unique ways to include multiplayer functionality.
Crimson Desert takes place on the continent of Pywel, a divided kingdom whose people are struggling to survive. The King of Demeniss, Unifier of Lands, has fallen into a coma, and those he has wronged are seeking to take advantage of this weakness – claiming power wherever they can. You'll step into the roll of Macduff, a warrior tasked with leading a band of mercenaries into battle to reclaim land overrun by invaders. During your quests, you'll battle "warring factions, hostile mercenaries, maniacal rulers, and mythical beasts."
You can check out the full gameplay trailer below:
The clip gave us a sneak peek at the gameplay of Crimson Desert, showcasing dungeons, puzzles, massive Siege battles, and even a quick shot of players flying on a mythical creature. Pearl Abyss also highlighted some tense 1v1 combat – with your typical assortment of swords, shields, daggers, and axes making an appearance. Crimson Desert is aiming to have a combat system that's "intense, fast-paced, and realistic," while also providing you with plenty of ways to customize your playstyle.
All footage shown in the trailer was captured in-game and features actual gameplay. Pearl Abyss said that "no edits or added effects" were used to enhance the images – what you see is what you get. And there's no denying that Crimson Desert looks incredible, thanks to a proprietary engine developed by the studio.
Daeil Kim, founder of Pearl Abyss and creator of the new engine, is taking the lead on Crimson Desert as Executive Producer. He's joined at the helm by HwanKyoung Jung and SeongWoo Lee – who previously worked on RYL Online – and Hyoseok Chae, Crimson Desert's Lead Combat Designer.
Crimson Desert is set to release for PC and console next winter. For more information, check out its official website.