Crimson Desert discs leaked a week before release, but the Resident Evil Requiem “mistake” wasn’t repeated—some players are unhappy with the DRM system

Access to the physical version is strictly restricted; gameplay will only be unlocked on launch day. This barrier cannot be bypassed by simply altering the system’s date, as the game requires a mandatory internet connection for its initial activation.

While this decision by the Crimson Desert creators has successfully halted potential leaks, it has raised concerns among some fans. There is a lingering worry that those without stable internet access on release day may find themselves unable to play their purchased copy.

Community discussions have compared these physical discs to the “Nintendo Game Key-card” system, where the media serves more as an authentication tool than a standalone product.