The wait for Crimson Desert is basically over. This action RPG from Pearl Abyss has become one of the most talked-about games of 2026, and yes, people are ready to judge it immediately. If you want to jump in right when it opens, here are the official start times by region.
When can you start playing?
Pacific Time players get first access at 3:00 PM on March 19. After that the release rolls out around the world. No early access was added, so this is a simultaneous global launch according to local clocks.
- Pacific Time (PT): 3:00 PM, March 19
- Central Time (CT): 5:00 PM, March 19
- Eastern Time (ET): 6:00 PM, March 19
- Brasilia Time (BRT): 7:00 PM, March 19
- Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): 10:00 PM, March 19
- China Standard Time (CST): 6:00 AM, March 20
- Korean Standard Time (KST): 7:00 AM, March 20
- Japan Standard Time (JST): 7:00 AM, March 20
- Australian Eastern Time (AET): 9:00 AM, March 20
- New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT): 11:00 AM, March 20
Quick notes you should know
- Worldwide launch, no early access. The release is a standard global rollout by local time zones rather than a staged early access window.
- Long game alert. Crimson Desert is built to be a lengthy experience, so clear your schedule if you plan to dive in on day one.
- Keep an eye on official channels. If you need platform-specific details like availability on subscription services, check the publisher or platform announcements for the latest confirmed information.
Which time applies to you?
Are you getting up early for an opening session or staying up late to play? Tell your friends and plan accordingly, because nothing ruins launch day faster than misreading your time zone.
Enjoy the game, and try not to rage-quit on the tutorial. Or do, but at least do it after you've played a few hours.
