Anticipated 2025 game postponement once more; GTA 6 not implicated in the delay
After much anticipation, Pearl Abyss has announced that the release of their highly-anticipated MMORPG, Crimson Desert, has been delayed from its previously planned launch in late 2025 to Q1 2026. This decision was made to ensure the game's success on a meaningful scale, as the developer aims to deliver a polished product.
The delay is due to longer-than-expected timelines caused by schedule coordination and collaborations with multiple partners for offline distribution, voiceovers, console certification, and other launch preparations. The game is currently in the voiceover recording phase, and undergoing console certification, which has contributed to the extended timelines.
Pearl Abyss is collaborating with multiple partners for distribution and other preparations, which added complexity to scheduling and resulted in the delay. The developer has apologised for not meeting the original Q4 2025 launch and emphasised that the delay aims to ensure a successful launch.
Despite the delay, Crimson Desert will be showcased at various events such as Gamescom, PAX West, and Tokyo Game Show ahead of release. However, a firm release date announcement will be made later based on business considerations.
Performance and optimization issues in games, particularly on consoles and PC, are a concern for developers. In this regard, Pearl Abyss is reportedly relying on Nvidia, AMD, and Intel upscaling methods and frame generation technology to optimise the game before launch.
Interestingly, another highly-anticipated game, GTA 6, has also been delayed to May 26, 2026. The delay of Crimson Desert and GTA 6 highlights the challenges developers face in delivering high-quality games, particularly in an era where expectations are high and technology continues to evolve.
Meanwhile, Respawn Entertainment's Star Wars Jedi: Survivor has been criticised for consistent stuttering on console and PC, underscoring the importance of quality assurance in game development.
In conclusion, the delay of Crimson Desert reflects coordination complexities and quality assurance efforts rather than issues like development setbacks or major redesigns. Pearl Abyss is positioning this as a strategic move to deliver a polished product, and fans can look forward to a high-quality gaming experience when Crimson Desert finally launches in Q1 2026.
The delay in the release of Crimson Desert, initially planned for late 2025, is due to collaborations with multiple partners for distribution and console certification, which have contributed to extending the timelines. Pearl Abyss is using upscaling methods and frame generation technology from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel to optimize the game before launch, ensuring a high-quality gaming experience on consoles and PC.
