Issue Focus

Korea’s Gaming Pride :

Crimson Desert Fights for Global Recognition at Gamescom 2025

This article highlights how Crimson Desert has become Korea’s flagship console game on the global

stage, earning four Gamescom 2025 nominations. This signals the rising competitiveness of K-games

in Western AAA markets and the potential to replicate Lies of P’s global success story.

♦  Korea’s Sole Gamescom Representative

     • Pearl Abyss’ Crimson Desert became the only Korean title nominated at Gamescom 2025.

     • Last year, the title missed out despite two nominations, but broader recognition this year heightens its

       award prospects and global visibility.

♦  Facing AAA Competition

     • In , Crimson Desert faces Borderlands 4 and Resident Evil: Requiem, while

      pits it against Dune: Awakening and Super Meat Boy 3D.

     • The game contends in both Xbox and PlayStation categories against heavyweights like Cronos :

       The New Dawn, Grounded 2, and Pragmata.

♦  Release Delays Create Pressure

     • Originally slated for late 2024, launch slipped to early 2025 due to localization and certification hurdles,

       sparking investor criticism and share price dips.

     • A Gamescom award win could offset negative sentiment, rebuild confidence, and reaffirm its position as

       a global must-play release.

♦  Major Showcase at Köln

     • Pearl Abyss presents an expansive open-world demo at Koelnmesse Hall 6, featuring large-scale battles,

       narrative quests, and protagonist “Cliff”.

     • Gamescom drew over 330,000 visitors in 2024, providing massive exposure to global press, buyers, and

       players for this crucial showcase.

Source

inews24. (2025. 8. 18)

https://www.inews24.com/view/1877552 (Korean version only)

MAEIL BUSINESS NEWSPAPER. (2025. 8. 20)

https://www.mk.co.kr/en/it/11398256 (in English)