Pearl Abyss has shared fresh details about the future of Crimson Desert, including its stance on multiplayer, ongoing post-launch support, and long-term plans for the franchise.
During a recent shareholder briefing, CEO Heo Jin-young acknowledged that many players remain interested in multiplayer, but emphasized that the feature is far more complex than simply adding another game mode.
While the company stopped short of announcing multiplayer, the comments suggest Pearl Abyss is exploring ways to expand the game’s lifespan as it continues supporting Crimson Desert with story updates, gameplay improvements, and future downloadable content.
Pearl Abyss says multiplayer remains under consideration
Responding to a shareholder question about multiplayer, Heo explained that the studio understands why players continue to ask for the feature, especially since Crimson Desert originally began development as an online game.
Speaking during the shareholder Q&A, first shared by Inven Global, Heo said,
“It is true that the action and open-world structure of Crimson Desert have long-term expansion potential. However, multiplayer is not just a matter of adding a mode. It is a major task that requires reviewing server structures, balance, platform-specific stability, and operating systems.”
He added that the team is studying both the technical and gameplay aspects, but “it is not the stage to discuss a confirmed release plan.” Even so, the CEO noted that the studio is “continuously reviewing ways to allow users to enjoy the Crimson Desert IP for longer,” adding that “there is room for a multiplayer mode in that process.”
Although no roadmap or release window was provided, the comments indicate that Pearl Abyss has not ruled out multiplayer and continues evaluating it as part of the game’s long-term future.
Studio doubles down on post-launch support
Beyond multiplayer, Pearl Abyss outlined several initiatives aimed at extending Crimson Desert well beyond its launch. According to COO Lee Dong-won, the game has sold 6 million copies since its release, and the company now considers the next phase of the title’s lifecycle to be underway.
Lee revealed that Pearl Abyss is preparing story updates with improved cinematic flow, alongside paid DLC featuring new stories, exploration opportunities, and expanded gameplay. He said these additions will be released when the timing best aligns with player expectations and the studio’s broader roadmap.
The company also confirmed it is technically preparing the game for additional platforms, though it did not announce any release dates.
Lessons from the launch are shaping future updates
The shareholder meeting also addressed feedback received following Crimson Desert’s launch. Heo admitted that while the game’s strengths resonated with many players, some areas needed additional polish.
“I feel ashamed that the initial reception of Crimson Desert caused disappointment and worry,”
Heo said, adding that the studio identified early-game immersion, accessibility, and balance as areas that
“should have been prepared more meticulously.”
According to the CEO, player feedback is now directly influencing the team’s priorities, with internal testing and quality assurance being strengthened for future updates and projects.
Pearl Abyss also confirmed that the experience gained from improving Crimson Desert will help shape future titles, including DokeV, which remains targeted for release in the second half of 2028.
| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
|---|---|
| Developer | Pearl Abyss |
