Crimson Desert's wrestling moves dazzle but controls frustrate players
Pearl Abyss' Crimson Desert has drawn attention for its unique combat system, letting players pull off wrestling-inspired moves in a medieval world. Fans have reacted with excitement, comparing the character Cliff to Power Rangers or Dragon Ball's Son Gohan. Yet, the game's controls have also faced criticism since its release.
Crimson Desert allows players to perform wrestling techniques like the RKO, a signature move of WWE star Randy Orton. Other moves include the Flying Dropkick and German Suplex, all executed through button combinations. These actions, borrowed from WWE and AEW, stand out in the game's fantasy setting.
Players have praised the spectacle but pointed out issues with movement controls. Complaints focus on imprecise animations, collision detection, and overall responsiveness. On March 15, 2026, the developers acknowledged these problems in an official statement. The team at Pearl Abyss promised patches to improve fluidity and control by late March. Meanwhile, Cedric from *MeinMMO* described the game as flawed but still enjoyable. He argued that despite its imperfections, *Crimson Desert* remains a title worth playing.
The developers are working on fixes to address control complaints before the end of March. Fans continue to celebrate the game's over-the-top combat, drawing comparisons to iconic action series. The updates aim to refine movement while keeping the wrestling-inspired battles intact.
