Crimson desert players cultivate elaborate cat armies in open-world rpg
Players exploring the sprawling world of Crimson Desert are finding unconventional ways to engage with its vast mechanics – turning the action RPG into a surprisingly serene feline simulator.
Players are building armies of cats in the game
The phenomenon, recently going viral on Reddit, sees players meticulously amassing in-game cats, often 30 or more, and equipping them with armor and even recreating beloved pets. The trend began with players discovering the game's Pororin village, a hidden location teeming with various cat breeds.
It's not as simple as just picking up cats. Players must build trust through a patient process of feeding and petting, with cooked bird meat proving to be the most effective method, yielding 20+ trust points per feeding. One player, known as ButeosDolichovespula, detailed their strategy, emphasizing stealth and timing when offering treats. The patience required is considerable, as cats in the village are often reluctant to accept food from players.
The motivations behind this unusual gameplay are deeply personal. Icedtc shared that playing with cats in the game allows them to honor a calico cat that passed away. Another player, infinitezero8, sought a feline companion resembling their deceased tuxedo cat.
This isn’t a new phenomenon; players have long sought to replicate their pets in virtual worlds, and developers have sometimes followed suit. But the dedication displayed by ButeosDolichovespula's 30-cat army highlights the depth of player engagement with Crimson Desert's systems.
However, the game isn't without its darker moments. One player recently discovered that it's possible to drown the in-game animals, a detail that has shocked the community. For those venturing into this expansive world, IGN has compiled guides on essential early-game strategies, overlooked mechanics, and recommended weapons.
The dedication to these virtual companions isn’t just about aesthetics. For some, it's a way to extend a connection with a beloved animal, proving that even in a vast open world RPG, the simplest bonds resonate most deeply.
Image credit: ButeosDolichovespula / reddit
Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at [email protected] or confidentially at [email protected].