Pearl Abyss on the 5th unveiled the second “Features Overview” video for its upcoming title Crimson Desert.

The video takes an in-depth look at how protagonist Kliff fights and how the game’s progression system works. Combat in Crimson Desert is presented as something without a single “correct answer,” unfolding based on player choice. Players can swap between a wide range of weapons—such as sword and shield, spears, greatswords, axes, and ranged weapons—depending on the situation on the battlefield.

It’s also possible to chain weapon attacks together with unarmed strikes, kicks, and grapples for combo-oriented play, and players can broaden their tactical options through “elemental enhancement,” which imbues attacks with attributes like fire or ice. The video also introduces timing-based inputs—such as sliding, dodging, and counterattacks (parries)—as key elements of the combat experience.

The character progression system was also revealed in more concrete terms. Early in the game, Kliff begins as a survivor who has lost everything immediately after an attack by the Black Bears.

Players must obtain "Abyss Fragments" through exploration, commissions, and defeating bosses. This item is used to raise core stats such as health and stamina, or to enhance skills. However, certain skills cannot be acquired simply by spending resources; instead, players must personally witness and learn those skills in order to obtain them.

Equipment crafting and enhancement systems were also shown. Materials gathered through hunting and mining can be used to craft gear or upgrade it, and the game supports customization features that grant additional stats. Across the continent of Pywel, players will encounter a variety of bosses—ranging from humanoid types to beast types. When players defeat a boss and equip the gear or outfit obtained, they gain special effects that allow them to use that boss’s signature skill.

Crimson Desert is scheduled for full release on March 20, 2026. Supported platforms are PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, Mac, and the Epic Games Store.

This article was translated from the original that appeared on INVEN.