New PS5 Action Adventure Game Is Basically Just Skyrim Meets Monster Hunter

Crimson Desert is the next big project from developer Pearl Abyss, combining open-world exploration with incredible single-player RPG challenges. The world looks like a stunning combination of Skyrim and Monster Hunter.

Fans of open-world exploration are in for a treat, as Crimson Desert is set to be released on March 19, 2026. The game has teased trailers of a detailed world with crisp visuals, showcasing incredible boss fights against a selection of terrible foes.

Gamers excited for Crimson Desert have taken to social media, listing out mechanics they are particularly excited for. Some fans have even expressed concern that the game looks “too good”, making them nervous that launch may expose a different experience.

RPG Fans Celebrate Features in Crimson Desert

In a social media post shared by content creator SynthPotato, the RPG enthusiast offers a breakdown list of features that promote interactivity with the world in Crimson Desert. These options were not available in titles like Skyrim, and they greatly increase the satisfaction of exploration. These include water conducting electricity, and elements interacting with each other, among other specific inclusions.

Some fans have compared Crimson Desert to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, while others have promoted it as a leveled-up version of Skyrim or more immersive Monster Hunter.

Excitement around the wide variety of exploration options has been the biggest pull for Crimson Desert, though several gamers have voiced concern at a lack of information about the overarching story, pointing out that it won’t hold up to other popular RPGs if the story doesn’t have enough depth.

Despite this, the general reception leading up to the release of Crimson Desert seems positive, and many are excited for the game despite its steep price tag. Crimson Desert breaks away from many ARPG and live-service titles currently on the market, focusing on a linear, single-player story, but the chance to dive in and explore a vast world is likely going to pull big RPG fans in, even if they can’t explore with friends.