Pearl Abyss CEO Confirms Crimson Desert Is Being Developed for Nintendo Switch 2, Says More Work Is Needed

Pearl Abyss has shared its clearest update yet on a potential Nintendo Switch 2 version of Crimson Desert, confirming that the action RPG is already being developed for Nintendo’s new platform. However, the studio stressed that significant optimization work remains before it can commit to a release.

The update came during a lengthy shareholder briefing hosted by Pearl Abyss, where CEO Huh Jin-young, COO Lee Dong-won, and CFO Cho Mi-young discussed the company’s future roadmap. While the meeting covered topics ranging from Crimson Desert’s post-launch plans to DokeV’s development progress and shareholder returns, one of the biggest takeaways for gamers was the company’s confirmation that it is actively evaluating Nintendo Switch 2 as part of its platform expansion strategy.

The comments suggest Pearl Abyss wants to bring Crimson Desert to as many players as possible but is unwilling to compromise the game’s visual quality or gameplay experience to do so.

Pearl Abyss says the Switch 2 version is already playable

During the shareholder Q&A, covered by Inven Global, CEO Huh Jin-young was asked directly about the possibility of bringing Crimson Desert to Nintendo Switch 2.

Huh confirmed that development work is underway, revealing that the game has already reached a stage where “basic gameplay is possible” on the platform. However, he emphasized that releasing the game on Nintendo’s new console involves much more than simply porting it.

“We believe it is important to showcase Crimson Desert on as many platforms as possible. We are reviewing the Nintendo Switch 2, and it is currently being developed to a level where basic gameplay is possible.”

He added that the development team is still evaluating whether the console can fully deliver the graphics, fast-paced combat, and open-world experience expected from Crimson Desert.

“The Switch 2 version still requires optimization and technical verification… Therefore, it is difficult to confirm a release schedule. We will announce it transparently once there is confirmed information.”

Although Pearl Abyss stopped short of officially announcing a Switch 2 release, the comments represent the strongest indication yet that the platform is part of the studio’s long-term plans.

Crimson Desert expansion plans continue after launch

The shareholder presentation also outlined Pearl Abyss’ plans to support Crimson Desert well beyond its initial release. According to COO Lee Dong-won, the game sold 2 million copies on launch day and reached 6 million full-price sales within three months.

Lee said the next phase of Crimson Desert has already begun, with the studio preparing story updates featuring improved cinematics alongside paid DLC that will introduce new stories, exploration opportunities, and expanded gameplay. He also confirmed that Pearl Abyss is pursuing additional platform releases to expand the game’s audience.

The company is also studying the possibility of adding multiplayer in the future. Huh explained that while Crimson Desert’s open-world design offers long-term potential for multiplayer, implementing the feature would require extensive work involving servers, balance, platform stability, and live operations.

DokeV remains on track for 2028

Pearl Abyss also provided an update on DokeV, confirming that the highly anticipated action-adventure title has moved beyond world-building and asset creation into play loop verification, where the team is refining core gameplay systems.

According to Lee, the game will be demonstrated publicly once those systems are finalized, with Pearl Abyss currently targeting a second-half 2028 release. He added that the studio is intentionally waiting before showing additional footage, believing that revealing the game too early could create unrealistic expectations before final polishing is complete.

Beyond its upcoming releases, Pearl Abyss reiterated its long-term strategy of expanding the BlackSpace Engine, growing the Crimson Desert, DokeV, and Plan 8 franchises, and eventually building a creator-focused ecosystem around its technology.