Crimson Desert’s review embargo lifted on March 18, 2026, one day before the game’s worldwide launch on March 19, 2026. The embargo has long passed, so there is no live countdown to follow. What remains is a historical date, along with the launch schedule that surrounded it.
When the reviews went live
Reviews became public on March 18, 2026. Windows Central reported that day that Crimson Desert reviews and Metacritic scores were in ahead of launch, and that the embargo had passed. PC Gamer also published its review, by Mollie Taylor, on March 18, 2026.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Crimson Desert: Standard Edition - PlayStation 5 | $69.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Crimson Desert Day 1 Edition - Playstation 5 | $59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
007 First Light - Specialist Edition - PlayStation 5 | $69.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
SAROS PS5 | $63.81 | Buy on Amazon |
Those reports establish the review date. Pearl Abyss did not publish a separate embargo notice that names a review time, so the date comes from contemporaneous press coverage rather than an official announcement of the embargo itself.
The launch date and time
Pearl Abyss announced the global launch of Crimson Desert, available worldwide starting March 19, 2026 at 3:00 PM PDT. That is the game’s launch time. It is not the review embargo time, and readers who see 3:00 PM PDT in launch coverage should not read it as the moment reviews opened.
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- Join Kliff, captain of the Greymanes, and his comrades as they embark on a relentless journey to defend Pywel and fulfill their mission.
- Along your perilous path stands both dependable allies and countless foes who will stop at nothing to see your downfall.
- Face trials to uncover the truth of the catastrophe looming over Pywel and restore peace to the continent.
- Explore the mesmerizing landscapes of the continent where mystical beings, hidden treasures, and thrilling adventures await.
- Pre-order to receive the Khaled Shield (Pre Order Code on Receipt). PS5 Editions include the Grotevant Plate Set DLC as a PS5 exclusive bonus. (In Pack DLC Voucher). Bonus DLC Includes: Grotevan Plate Helm, Grotevan Plate Armor, along with Grotevan cloak, gloves, and boots!
Key dates at a glance
| Date (2026) | What happened | Source |
|---|---|---|
| March 12 | Pearl Abyss confirmed a simultaneous worldwide release on all platforms the following week and explained preorder preload timing | Pearl Abyss “Global Release Time and Pre-load Notice” |
| March 18 | Reviews went live and the embargo lifted | Windows Central; PC Gamer review |
| March 19, 3:00 PM PDT | Worldwide launch | Pearl Abyss launch announcement |
Preorder preload before launch
Pearl Abyss’s March 12 notice said qualifying preorders could preload the game starting 48 hours before launch on the PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Microsoft Store, and Steam. The notice did not give a clock time for the preload start. Counting 48 hours back from the 3:00 PM PDT launch time places it at 3:00 PM PDT on March 17, 2026, but that is simple arithmetic rather than a published figure.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Launch platforms
The publisher’s launch announcement listed these platforms:
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- A fast-paced, cinematic action game set on the shape-shifting Carcosa
- Stunning graphics and gameplay
- Master bullet ballet combat
- Experience an unconventional story and journey
Rank #3
- ONLY AT AMAZON - SPECIALIST EDITION
- EARN THE NUMBER - Discover a new James Bond origin story, and the events that led a young maverick to become the best MI6 agent.
- A THRILLING ESPIONAGE ADVENTURE - Embark on missions in breathtaking locations, drive iconic vehicles, and dive into a cinematic adventure in pursuit of a rogue agent who’s always one step ahead.
- SPYING, YOUR WAY - Go silent or go loud. Whether fighting with fists or firepower, using gadgets to infiltrate, or bluffing your way past guards, the approach is entirely up to you.
Rank #2
- Crimson Desert is an open-world action-adventure game set in the beautiful yet brutal continent of Pywel. Take on the role of the Greymane Kliff and embark on a journey across the continent to reclaim everything youve lost. Explore uncharted lands, encounter mysterious factions, and experience firsthand a world that is as breathtaking as it is merciless.
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
- Steam
- Apple Mac
- Epic Games Store
- ROG Xbox Ally
What the sources do not establish
- Exact embargo time: No clock time or time zone for the lift is documented in the coverage examined. If you need an hour-specific answer, the reports only support March 18, 2026.
- Official embargo notice: No Pearl Abyss statement announcing the review embargo was found. The date rests on press reporting from March 18.
- Named statement on the embargo: No attributed quote from a company representative about the embargo was verified.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
