Pearl Abyss has confirmed that Crimson Desert, its long-anticipated open-world action RPG, will be getting a physical edition thanks to a new partnership with PLAION. The announcement clears up months of speculation about whether the game would see a boxed release at all, with many players expecting a digital-only launch.

PLAION, known for distributing physical versions of titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Persona 3 Reload, will oversee retail editions across multiple platforms. This means players on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and even PC will be able to pick up a copy in stores when the game launches. For collectors and fans who still prefer the tangible feel of a disc or box on the shelf, this is welcome news.

The physical release is scheduled to arrive alongside the digital launch in early 2026, though an exact date has not yet been locked in. At this stage, neither Pearl Abyss nor PLAION have confirmed whether special or collector’s editions are in the works, but given the scale of the project and the studio’s ambitions, it wouldn’t be surprising if more detailed announcements followed closer to launch.

Crimson Desert has been drawing attention since its first reveal trailer, which showcased sprawling landscapes, a gritty medieval setting, and visceral combat sequences. Early previews suggest the game will lean heavily into cinematic storytelling while still offering the open-ended exploration players expect from a large-scale RPG. With a boxed edition now confirmed, it’s clear that Pearl Abyss and PLAION are aiming to position Crimson Desert as one of the major RPG releases of 2026.

For players who value preservation and physical ownership, PLAION’s involvement is more than just a logistical move it’s a sign that Crimson Desert is being treated as a long-term release, not just another digital experiment. As anticipation builds, fans now have one more reason to mark their calendars for its arrival next year.