Crimson Desert exec blames review build and time limits for critic reception

Pearl Abyss executive Lybee Park says reviewers weren't given a fair shot at Crimson Desert before launch. According to VGC and Kotaku, she told The Game Business Show that critics played a different version of the game and had limited time.

Park stated the press "had to play a build that was not the exact same version as the launch game." She added they were forced to follow the main story and couldn't explore the world's hidden details, which she calls the game's unique charm.

Kotaku reports the game received a day-one patch and a major update in its first week, overhauling systems like inventory that had frustrated reviewers. By the end of its first month, the game was significantly different from the version critics assessed.

The developer has confirmed sales of 6 million units. A new DLC titled "Charting the Unknown" is scheduled for October 29.

VGC also reports Pearl Abyss is working on a Nintendo Switch 2 port. The studio says it has reached a playable state and aims to launch it sometime in the first half of next year.