Crimson Desert Hits PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X

Crimson Desert has arrived on PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X, but the console versions reveal a game that still feels optimized for PC. Game Informer’s hands-on testing shows both platforms struggle with environmental pop-in and performance trade-offs, though developer Pearl Abyss is already patching issues.

What changed most: The biggest takeaway is that there’s no ideal performance mode on either console — you’re choosing between blurry visuals with higher framerates (Performance/Balanced) or crisp 4K at 30FPS (Quality), with noticeable pop-in affecting both PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X.

  • Platforms: PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X, PC
  • Developer: Pearl Abyss
  • Genre: Open-world action RPG
  • Release: Available now
  • Price: Check Steam or PlayStation Store

Crimson Desert offers three performance modes across both consoles. According to Game Informer’s testing, PS5 Pro runs Performance mode at 1080p/60FPS, Balanced at 1440p/40FPS, and Quality at 4K/30FPS. Xbox Series X achieves performance parity with the PlayStation 5 Pro version.

The game demands VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) to minimize screen tearing, particularly noticeable on PS5 Pro when VRR is disabled. The reviewer noted that turning VRR off caused significant screen tearing even in low-population areas, making a compatible TV essential for the best experience.

Key technical findings from both console versions:

PS5 Pro Performance Issues:
  • Environmental pop-in distracting in Performance and Balanced modes
  • Foliage and terrain morphing onto screen creates jarring effect
  • Quality mode reduces pop-in to near-zero but locks framerate at 30FPS
  • VRR required to eliminate screen tearing
  • FPS stability reported in early game, struggles in populated cities and large battles

Xbox Series X Concerns:

  • Similar environmental pop-in issues as PS5 Pro
  • Less screen tearing than PlayStation version
  • Noticeable input lag between button presses and on-screen actions
  • Menu scrolling feels sluggish
  • Hair and beard details appear fractured and low-resolution
  • Combat feels delayed, reducing combo execution and blocking precision

Developer Response:

  • Pearl Abyss already released patches for visual issues
  • Both console and PC versions receiving ongoing optimization

Game Informer’s assessment suggests the game was optimized for PC first, leaving console versions as secondary ports. The input lag on Xbox Series X particularly impacts action gameplay, making combat feel disconnected from player input. However, when environmental details finish loading, the visuals impress—the game demonstrates genuine visual flair in carefully framed moments.

The core issue remains a lose-lose scenario: choose gorgeous 4K at 30FPS or accept pop-in artifacts for higher framerates. Neither option feels ideal for an action-focused RPG.

If you own a PS5 Pro or Xbox Series X, expect a competent but technically compromised experience. Performance mode delivers playable framerates but with noticeable visual compromises. Quality mode looks stunning but 30FPS feels sluggish for action gameplay. PC remains the superior platform if your rig can handle it. With patches already rolling out, the console versions may improve in coming weeks, so waiting a month before purchasing could pay off. Gamers prioritizing frame-smoothness should play in Performance mode with VRR enabled; those who prefer visual fidelity should accept the 30FPS Quality option and adjust expectations accordingly.