Pearl Abyss Brings Crimson Desert Back to Gamescom 2025 with New Playable Demo and Exclusive Fan Experience

Pearl Abyss is returning to Gamescom with Crimson Desert once again, giving fans another opportunity to go hands-on with the highly anticipated open-world action RPG ahead of its Fall 2025 release. Following a strong showing at Gamescom 2024 and a Fall launch window announcement during The Game Awards 2024, the studio is doubling down on public engagement with a fresh playable demo and immersive booth setup at this year’s event in Cologne, Germany.

A New Demo Experience at Gamescom 2025

Gamescom 2025 attendees will find Crimson Desert showcased prominently in Hall 06.1, Stand B041-A040 within the Entertainment Area. Players can get hands-on time with a new slice of the game, powered by AMD systems and displayed on cutting-edge Samsung G6 and G8 monitors, offering a glimpse into the rich, visually striking world of Pywel.

In addition to gameplay, those who visit the booth will be treated to exclusive Crimson Desert merchandise, ensuring they walk away with more than just impressions of the game.

Lybee Park, CEO of Pearl Abyss Europe, shared in a press release:

“We're thrilled to debut Crimson Desert's latest public demo for the very first time here at Gamescom 2025. From the immersive booth to the gameplay itself, we hope every visitor walks away feeling part of Crimson Desert – and excited for what's to come at launch.”

Release Date Still Unconfirmed—But Maybe Not for Long

While a recent Korean report suggested a November 2, 2025 release date, Pearl Abyss has responded with caution, stating:

“When the company is ready to announce a release date, it will come from official channels.”

The non-denial leaves room for speculation, and with the game taking center stage at Gamescom, it's possible the Crimson Desert release date will finally be locked in during or shortly after the event.

First unveiled years ago as a spiritual successor to Black Desert Online, Crimson Desert has undergone major evolution, leaning into its narrative-driven, single-player RPG experience, while still embracing elements of large-scale exploration, dynamic combat, and cinematic world-building. Built in-house on Pearl Abyss’s proprietary engine, the game promises to deliver rich, action-packed fantasy steeped in realism and drama.

Will you be heading straight to the Pearl Abyss booth to try Crimson Desert at Gamescom 2025? What are you hoping to see most in this new demo? Share your thoughts and theories in the comments!