To experience the new stories in Crimson Desert's first major expansion, Charting the Unknown, you must first complete the main storyline. Pearl Abyss has officially confirmed this requirement.

Main Story First, Then the DLC

This clarification comes from Will Powers, Pearl Abyss's PR and marketing director. Speaking on the Dropped Frames show, Powers explained that the DLC's story takes place after the main game ends. For three characters, this expansion acts as an 'epilogue.'

The new stories focus on Kliff, Oongka, and Damiane. They don't journey together; each one forges their own path after the main game's finale. If you want to avoid spoilers, steer clear of DLC news until you've finished the main story.

Not Everything Is Locked

Good news: you don't have to finish the main story to explore the DLC's open world. As long as you've established the Greymane camp in Chapter 3, you can start discovering new regions. Other features have different requirements:

So even if you're only halfway through the main campaign, you can still set sail. But to see the characters' endings, you'll need to finish the story first. It's a smart move, an epilogue only makes sense after the finale.

What's Included in Charting the Unknown?

This expansion is packed with content. Highlights include:

• Separate storylines for Kliff, Oongka, and Damiane
• Shipbuilding and sailing to new islands
• Underwater diving and sunken ruins
• New relationship and marriage options
• Expanded housing system and conquerable castles
• Garden of Trials boss challenge mode

The story is written by the Enhanced Edition team, who previously revamped the main game's narrative. Powers also notes they took extra care with the romance options.

Release Date

After a two-week delay, the DLC launches on October 29, 2026. It goes live at 11:00 PM CET. You’ll be able to play it on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and Epic Games Store. The Mac App Store version won't be supported at launch.

This is a paid expansion and requires ownership of the main game. To purchase on PC, you can use a Steam Wallet Code; for PS5, a PlayStation Store Gift Card; and on Xbox, an Xbox Gift Card. Check out the latest prices on Lotkeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to finish the main story to play the DLC?

Yes, for the character storylines. For the open world, you just need to establish the Greymane camp in Chapter 3.

When does Charting the Unknown release?

October 29, 2026, at 11:00 PM CET.

Is the DLC free?

No, it's a paid expansion and requires the base game.