Buckle up for an epic journey into Crimson Desert – this month's IGN First is set to redefine open-world adventures with heart-pounding action that might just change how you view medieval fantasy games forever!
Imagine stepping into a vast, untamed world where every corner hides danger and discovery. That's the essence of Crimson Desert, the sprawling open-world title from Pearl Abyss, and it's taking center stage as October's IGN First. True to our tradition, we're launching a series of exclusive features with a fresh gameplay video that plunges you right into the action. Check out the 11-minute clip above, featuring a playthrough of 'The Captured Fortress,' one of the game's faction quests. In this mission, you team up with Duke Wells to reclaim his stronghold from rebellious invaders, showcasing the game's core mechanics in a thrilling narrative.
This extended video highlights several standout elements of Crimson Desert, starting with its combat system. Since our initial hands-on experience at Gamescom 2024, where we compared it to a mash-up of God of War and Dragon's Dogma, it's clear that Pearl Abyss has crafted something extraordinary in battles. The protagonist, Kliff, wields a diverse set of skills that make fights dynamic and engaging. For instance, one of our top picks is the spear-based pole-vault, which lets you launch yourself onto enemies for surprise attacks – think of it as a medieval version of parkour meets combat, where precision timing can turn the tide of a skirmish. And don't miss the devastating, magic-infused heavy strikes that pack a punch, blending raw power with supernatural flair to keep things exciting.
But here's where it gets controversial – is this combat style too reliant on flashy abilities, potentially overshadowing strategic depth? Some players might argue it feels overpowered, while others see it as innovative freedom. And this is the part most people miss: the video isn't just about clashing swords. Kliff's exploration tools shine through, allowing him to traverse the landscape with ease. Using magic leaps, he can bound across chasms or obstacles, much like a superhero's acrobatics. There's also a Spider-Man-inspired swinging mechanic for zipping through the air, and the Crow Wings ability for gliding toward distant goals – picture soaring over rugged terrains to scout ahead, adding a layer of freedom that encourages creative pathfinding.
Additionally, Kliff employs his sword to reflect light, illuminating hidden points of interest and guiding him to secrets. This not only aids in stealthy infiltration of the Duke's fortress but also uncovers bonus treasures, rewarding curious explorers. It's a clever way to blend utility with gameplay, making the world feel alive and interactive.
Of course, no Crimson Desert preview would be complete without a showdown, and the video wraps up with an intense boss fight against Fortain, the Cursed Knight. This armored foe brandishes a sword imbued with eerie supernatural powers – a spectacle you won't want to look away from. And here's a tantalizing twist: you might even get to wield that very weapon yourself later on, raising questions about the game's lore and power dynamics.
Remember, this is merely the opening salvo. Over the coming weeks in October, IGN First will delve deeper into Crimson Desert, revealing additional bosses, diverse regions, more combat techniques, and a couple of unexpected surprises that defy typical medieval fantasy tropes – like elements you wouldn't expect in a game set in a historical-inspired world. Stay glued to IGN for all the updates.
Matt Purslow is IGN's Executive Editor of Features.
What are your thoughts on Crimson Desert's blend of combat and exploration? Do you think its controversial take on fantasy tropes will win over fans of traditional RPGs, or is it too bold for its own good? Share your opinions in the comments – we'd love to hear if you're excited or skeptical!
