Crimson Desert, Black Desert Online's Successor, Turns Down PS5 Exclusivity Deal

Pearl Abyss, the developer behind the anticipated action-adventure game Crimson Desert, has reportedly declined a Sony offer for PlayStation 5 exclusivity.

Pearl Abyss Prioritizes Independent Publishing for Crimson Desert

Crimson Desert Release Date and Platforms Still Unconfirmed

Pearl Abyss remains committed to self-publishing Crimson Desert. In a statement to Eurogamer, the developer reiterated its previously announced independent publishing plans, emphasizing its ongoing collaborations with various partners while maintaining its self-publishing strategy. The statement highlighted the company's commitment to transparency, referencing previous public disclosures about their self-publishing decision.

A playable build of Crimson Desert will be showcased to media this week in Paris, followed by a public demonstration at G-Star in November. Pearl Abyss clarified that no release date has been set, dismissing recent articles speculating on the release date as conjecture.

September investor meetings revealed Sony's attempt to secure Crimson Desert as a PS5 exclusive, potentially excluding Xbox for a period. However, Pearl Abyss opted for self-publishing, believing it would yield greater profitability.

While the final platform lineup and release date remain unannounced, a PC, PlayStation, and Xbox release is anticipated around Q2 2025.