Pearl Abyss Makes Black Desert Free to Play on Consoles Ahead of Crimson Desert Launch

AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·

Pearl Abyss Makes Black Desert Free to Play on Consoles Ahead of Crimson Desert Launch

Pearl Abyss is offering a free weekend for Black Desert on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X to build momentum ahead of the March 19 launch of Crimson Desert, as reported by Polygon.

As the March 19 release date for Crimson Desert approaches, developer Pearl Abyss is giving console players a chance to check out its previous massive title. According to a report by Polygon, Black Desert is currently free to play on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X through the weekend. PlayStation users can jump into the trial without needing an active PlayStation Plus subscription until March 8, while Xbox players have until March 9 to experience the massive MMO.

While sharing a similar name and studio pedigree, Black Desert and Crimson Desert are distinct experiences. Crimson Desert originally started development as a prequel to the Black Desert MMO before Pearl Abyss pivoted the project into a standalone single player game. Even so, diving into Black Desert gives players a clear look at the studio's knack for expansive worlds and complex mechanics, ranging from deep life skills like farming and cooking to large scale siege PvP.

For players trying to fill the wait while the Crimson Desert hype train rolls on, this free weekend offers a solid low risk entry point. Whether you are looking to test out the fast paced action combat or just want to see how Pearl Abyss builds its virtual economies and massive open spaces, grabbing the trial lets you test the waters before the studio's next major release drops later this month.

Tags: Black Desert, Crimson Desert, Pearl Abyss, MMO, Console Gaming

Original article: Polygon