Crimson Desert ‘Features Overview #2: Combat and Progression’ trailer

Pearl Abyss has released a new featurette for open-world action adventure game Crimson Desert introducing the game’s combat and progression.

Here are the latest details:

This latest video showcases Crimson Desert‘s signature combat mechanics and flexible growth systems, emphasizing player choice across both combat styles and skill development paths. Crimson Desert‘s combat is predominantly shaped by player decisions. In addition to` weapons and skills earned through character progression, players can adapt to each encounter, for example, by using different mounts and in combat situations, using the environment to their benefit.

Players can wield a wide arsenal of weapons; including sword and shield, spear, great sword, axe, and several ranged weapons, each offering distinct strengths and combat tactics. Weapons can be purchased, discovered through exploration, given as a reward for dispatching bosses and questlines, or crafted directly by the player.

The fluid combat in Crimson Desert offers the ability to chain combos using a vast array of hand-to-hand combat, kicks, grapples and armed combat moves. Weapons can also be enhanced with elemental effects such as fire and ice, adding strategic depth, and making fights more intense.

Timing and situational awareness are central to success. By reading enemy movements and attack patterns, players can execute precisely timed guards and evasions, whilst creating openings for counterattacks that can turn the tide of combat.

Character progression is driven by fragments of the Abyss, a key resource used to unlock and enhance skills. Fragments can be obtained by defeating powerful bosses or discovered throughout the world of Pywel, while certain abilities can be learned directly through exploration or by completing certain quests.

Weapons and equipment can be upgraded using materials acquired through mining, boss encounters, completing quests and exploration. Players can further customize their playstyle by combining bonus attributes and special effects on gear. Some bosses also drop exclusive equipment and costumes, and in some cases allowing players to wield signature skills tied to those encounters.

Crimson Desert is due out for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam on March 19.

Watch the video below.

Features Overview #2: Combat and Progression