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

Pearl Abyss Rejects PS5 Exclusivity Deal for Upcoming Crimson Desert

Pearl Abyss, the developer behind the anticipated action-adventure game Crimson Desert, has reportedly declined a PlayStation exclusivity deal with Sony. The studio has opted for independent publishing, prioritizing broader accessibility across multiple platforms.

Crimson Desert Remains Multi-Platform

In a statement to Eurogamer, Pearl Abyss confirmed its self-publishing strategy for Crimson Desert, emphasizing the financial benefits of this approach. While appreciating ongoing collaborations with various partners, the developer clarified its commitment to independent release. The company highlighted that previous reports regarding release dates and platform exclusivity were purely speculative.

November Showcase and Uncertain Launch Window

Pearl Abyss plans to showcase a playable build of Crimson Desert to media this week in Paris, followed by a public demonstration at G-Star in November. Although a specific release date remains unannounced, a Q2 2025 launch window for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms is currently anticipated. Previous reports suggested Sony sought a timed PS5 exclusivity agreement, but Pearl Abyss ultimately deemed self-publishing a more lucrative option. The final platform lineup and official release date are still pending confirmation.