Crimson Desert

Crimson Desert is the story of a mercenary leader who tries to save the remnants of his brotherhood in the midst of a great conflict. The project develops the Black Desert universe, transferring the mechanics of the online world into a story-driven single-player adventure. Cliff will have to rebuild the destroyed camp, gather people and regain old connections. The world is open and full of side activities: settlements, enemy units and abandoned ruins keep their own stories. Tasks are divided into plot and side ones: somewhere you need to recapture a village, somewhere you need to negotiate with mercenaries. Horses, camp, and supplies make the journey feel like a troop trek rather than a walk. The battles are based on changing weapons and combos: sword strikes alternate with grabs and techniques, and opponents gather in groups that require attention. Horseback riding, hunting and crafting complement the hikes, while weather and time of day affect the experience. Weapons and skills are upgraded gradually, and changing stances noticeably changes the rhythm of the battle. Veterans of the online universe will find familiar places, and newcomers will see a separate story without obligations to other players. Technically, the game tries to look like a big-budget action game: large-scale scenes, sieges and detailed characters. Development took years, and the project had its own history of expectations. Battles with large opponents require reading attacks and dodging in time, and horsemen and infantry work together. Interviews and presentations around the project added interest even before the release. For those who like gritty fantasy and large open spaces, there's plenty to see here.