Crimson Desert Update 1.09 Adds Controller Remapping on PlayStation 5

The latest update for Crimson Desert on PlayStation 5, version 1.09, is now live, introducing highly requested quality-of-life improvements including full controller remapping. While players utilizing the PS5 Pro and its advanced PSSR upscaling technology have enjoyed high-fidelity visuals since the game's release date of March 19, 2026, this patch focuses on refining the mechanical experience for all console users. As part of our ongoing action RPG coverage here at In Game News, we have tracked the development of this title since its launch, noting the significant shift from its initial complex control scheme to this current, fully customizable setup.

Crimson Desert PS5 Controller Remapping Guide and New Features

The primary addition in patch 1.09 is the implementation of a comprehensive controller remapping system. Following community feedback regarding the game's initial, rigid control layout, Pearl Abyss has provided players with the ability to assign any action to any button on the DualSense controller. This change follows a previous patch that introduced a simplified control scheme, marking a clear effort by the developers to improve accessibility for the console audience.

Beyond control adjustments, the update expands the game's collection mechanics. Players can now encounter and register approximately 30 new species of small animals as pets. To accompany this, new animations have been added for interacting with these creatures, specifically when picking them up or placing them down. These additions are part of the broader Pearl Abyss Crimson Desert new features 2026 initiative, which aims to flesh out the interaction systems within the open world.

Combat and Character Skill Updates

The update also addresses the combat capabilities of specific side characters. Oongka and Damiane have received new skills, with input commands mirroring the existing "Blinding Flash Finisher" used by the character Kliff. Specifically, these new skills are triggered by performing a heavy attack while the Blinding Flash ability is active. These adjustments are intended to provide more consistency across the character roster during skirmishes.

Furthermore, the patch includes specific balance tweaks to combat mechanics:

• Adjusted the stagger meter increase for Oongka.
• Fixed an issue where Kliff’s "Evasive Kick" failed to consume Spirit when the character was unarmed.
• Resolved a bug where Kliff could execute the "Blinding Flash Finisher" without sufficient Spirit levels.

Technical Improvements and Bug Fixes

Pearl Abyss has addressed several technical issues that were reported following the initial 2026 launch. These fixes span across character customization, inventory management, and world interactions. For instance, the team corrected an issue where color checking during character customization was hindered by environmental lighting. Additionally, several items and mechanics have been adjusted for better functionality:

Inventory and World Interaction Fixes

• Fixed an issue preventing the donation of legendary fish.
• Resolved a bug where specific knowledge-related challenges would not complete after the requirements were met.
• Fixed an issue where the "Pond Management" mode was inaccessible in certain scenarios.
• Corrected a bug that caused controls to become unresponsive if a character died while inside the "Pond Management" menu.
• Fixed an issue where bears would fail to consume fish dropped on the ground.

The update also includes several quality-of-life changes to farming and item usage. Seeds can now be assigned to and utilized directly from quickslots, streamlining the farming process. Other fixes include correcting the unintentional activation of Photo Mode while examining items, and ensuring that the "Magic Scythe" and standard "Scythe" function correctly regardless of inventory status or location within safe zones. The "Mining Knuckledrill" has also been patched to allow usage while the player is clinging to a wall.

Art Direction and Ongoing Support

As part of the developer's commitment to the game's visual identity, certain 2D visual assets have been replaced in this patch. This change is intended to better align these elements with the established art direction of the game. These updates follow a recent re-review of the title, which saw its score increase from 6/10 to 8/10, reflecting the progress made since the March launch. The game is currently available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remap controller buttons in Crimson Desert on PS5?
You can access the new controller remapping feature by downloading patch 1.09 and navigating to the settings menu on your PlayStation 5.

What is included in the latest Crimson Desert update 1.09?
The 1.09 update adds full controller button remapping, 30 new species of small animals as pets, new animations for pet interaction, and additional skills for characters Oongka and Damiane.

When was Crimson Desert released on consoles?
Crimson Desert was released on March 19, 2026, for platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.