Pearl Abyss is currently developing a version of Crimson Desert for the Nintendo Switch 2, according to CEO Huh Jin-young. During a July 7 shareholder meeting, the company confirmed it is working to reach a level where “basic gameplay” is possible, though the project faces technical challenges in maintaining the title’s open-world experience on Nintendo’s upcoming hardware.
Pearl Abyss Targets Nintendo Switch 2 Despite Technical Hurdles
The developer of Crimson Desert is prioritizing platform accessibility to reach as many platforms as possible. CEO Huh Jin-young stated during a three-and-a-half-hour shareholder meeting on July 7 that the company is actively reviewing the Nintendo Switch 2. He clarified that the process is not a “simple port.”
According to reports from Inven Global, the primary challenge for Pearl Abyss is preserving the game’s core identity. Huh Jin-young specifically highlighted the need to maintain the “graphics, the action, and the open-world experience” when transitioning the title to the new handheld hardware.
The Challenge of Open-World Scaling on Handhelds
The technical gap between high-end consoles and handheld devices often requires significant optimization. Because Crimson Desert features a massive graphical scope, the development team is currently focused on establishing a functional baseline for gameplay before polishing the visual experience.
Comparison: Current Gen vs. Potential Switch 2 Version
| Feature | PS5 / Xbox Series X|S | Nintendo Switch 2 (Target) |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Released (March) | In Development |
| Development Goal | Full Fidelity | Maintain “Basic Gameplay” & Core Experience |
| Primary Concern | N/A | Open-World Performance |
Corporate Strategy and Shareholder Transparency
The confirmation of the Switch 2 project came during a detailed corporate session involving the company's CEO, COO, and CFO.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crimson Desert confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes, CEO Huh Jin-young confirmed during a July 7 shareholder meeting that the company is currently developing a version for the console.
When will the Nintendo Switch 2 version be released?
A specific release date has not been announced. The company stated it is currently working toward a level where basic gameplay is possible.
Will the Switch 2 version be the same as the PS5 version?
Pearl Abyss aims to maintain the graphics, action, and open-world experience, but the CEO noted that this is not a “simple port” and involves technical challenges.
What do you think about the possibility of an open-world epic like Crimson Desert on a handheld? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry updates.
