The journey through Piever’s vast world begins with its next round in the fall. As announced by developer studio Pearl Abyss, Crimson Desert, the open-world action role-playing game that was successfully launched in the spring, is about to receive its first major content expansion pack. The DLC is called “Crimson Desert: Charting the Unknown” and will be officially released on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox Series X/S and PC on October 15, 2026. A gameplay trailer released at the same time showcases the first gameplay scene recorded directly on PlayStation 5 Pro, giving those who pre-order from the PlayStation Store and other platforms the chance to get early access to the new adventure.
In terms of content, the expansion pack continues the events of the main game and takes you deep into previously unexplored areas of the continent of Pivel. At the center of the plot is once again the mercenary Cliff, this time setting out with his loyal companions Onka and Damian.
The three protagonists attempt to find their true destinies and reshape their futures in the wake of dramatic events in the past. As political turmoil and new threats arise around them, you must help your heroes pass dangerous trials and pave the way for the unknown. You control your own ship, and there should be plenty to explore underwater, too. In addition, the living style will also be further expanded.
The developers promise not only to continue the expansion’s complex story, but also to bring tangible gameplay innovations. In addition to fresh main and side missions, new areas await you with vertical challenges, powerful enemy types, and expanded equipment and combat abilities. The trailer also suggests that character interactions during combat will play a more important role than before.
The DLC will be available digitally for 24.99 euros. On PlayStation and Xbox, players who pre-order the DLC will receive an additional 10% discount for a limited time. Pre-orderers will receive two exclusive in-game items: Cliff and Oongka’s Explorer Wetsuit Set, and Damiane’s Explorer Light Wetsuit Set.
With a fast-tracked release on October 15, 2026, Pearl Abyss will continue its difficult post-launch process. After continuing to optimize the main game through ongoing updates, such as the recently released enhancement pack, the studio is now delivering the first full-fledged story supplement to Epic fans.
Crimson Desert: Mapping the Unknown is now available for digital pre-order.
