
In a surprising turn, Crimson Desert has reportedly sold close to 400,000 copies on Steam pre-launch. This surge happens just ahead of its release, stirring mixed opinions within the gaming community.
As of March 16, 2026, the game had recorded 363,000 pre-orders, generating gross revenues exceeding $20 million. Notably, 10% of these sales occurred on March 16, bringing in $2.6 million. The title also boasts nearly 2.2 million wishlists, showcasing strong pre-release interest.
Feedback from forums reveals varied takes on the game:
One player described it as having "a layer of sci-fi existing over a semi-normal fantasy RPG", capturing its blend of styles.
Another user compared it to a Korean version of Breath of the Wild, with a larger focus on combat.
"Itโs like Skyrim and Just Cause had a baby," suggested a comment, emphasizing its hybrid genre.
Despite initial success, not all comments are optimistic. Some players have already spotted concerning trends, stating that "Crimson Desert has lost 90% of its player base on Steam in just one month!" This raises questions about the game's sustainability post-launch.
Many people appear hesitant about pre-ordering, preferring to wait for reviews:
"I want this game but Iโm at least waiting for a couple of early reviews."
"Still waiting for reviews, Iโm not falling again into this preorder possible scam."
With the launch on the horizon, Crimson Desert is set to attract a large audience. Yet, will early reviews align with the considerable expectations? The game's success depends on how well it keeps players engaged after the initial excitement fades.
๐ฅ 400K copies sold pre-launch
๐ฐ Gross revenue: $20 million+
๐ 2.2 million wishlists as of March 2026
๐ก "A layer of sci-fi in a fantasy RPG" - Comment highlights genre mix
โ Will robust sales translate to returning players post-launch?
As the release day nears, experts suggest a majority of pre-order enthusiasts could dive into the game at launch, driven by significant sales figures and community buzz. However, if early reviews are unfavorable, it may deter further interest and sales.
This scenario could draw parallels to how previous digital games have performed under scrutiny, highlighting that sustained audience engagement is pivotal in today's gaming market.