Crimson desert’s control issues plague launch, stock prices plunge

Crimson Desert, Pearl Abyss’s highly anticipated open-world action RPG, has stumbled out of the gate, hampered by a deluge of complaints centered on its frustrating control scheme. Despite impressive initial Steam concurrent player numbers – peaking at 239,045 – the game is currently rated “mixed” on the platform, and financial markets are reacting with alarm.

Controls criticized as game-shattering

Players are voicing widespread dissatisfaction with the game's controls, particularly the reliance on controller use, with many describing the experience as clunky and unresponsive. The core issue, according to numerous Steam reviews and a growing chorus on the game’s subreddit, boils down to unintuitive button mapping and awkward movement mechanics. Many players cite the constant need to hold a button to perform actions like talking to NPCs, only to have it interrupted by the need to jump. The jumping mechanic itself has also drawn fire, with reports of unpredictable and unreliable execution, especially during sprints.

“Controls on the controller are so bad,” one user wrote on Steam. “It’s REALLY annoying to have to hold one button then aim with a stick, then press another button JUST TO TALK TO AN NPC. WHY would you design it like this?” The sentiment echoes across the Crimson Desert subreddit, where users are sharing their frustrations with grabbing items, navigating menus, and even basic combat maneuvers. The comparison to the notoriously finicky controls of Red Dead Redemption 2, while often praised for its overall quality, is a recurring theme.

Pearl Abyss’s PR director, Will Powers, has attempted to assuage concerns, advising players to “think of it like riding a bike, it comes naturally after you learn it.” This response has done little to quell the rising tide of negativity.

The financial repercussions are already being felt. Pearl Abyss’s stock price plunged nearly 30%following the release of the game's initial reviews, and the decline continued today, dropping another 9.78%. Investors are clearly concerned about the game’s reception and its potential impact on the company's future.

IGN has compiled a comprehensive guide to Crimson Desert, including patch notes, a full review, and tips for navigating its vast open world. But for now, the game’s launch serves as a stark reminder that even visually stunning and ambitious titles can falter when fundamental gameplay mechanics fall short. The potential for a resurgence remains, but the initial impression is one of significant missteps.

The game's issues are not just about player frustration; they directly impact the company's bottom line. The question now is whether Pearl Abyss can quickly address these issues and salvage what’s left of the launch.