JorRaptor described Pywel as a two-level map

In JorRaptor’s preview, Crimson Desert opens with a cinematic attack by the Black Bears on Kliff’s group, about 15 minutes, before the open world.

He describes the map as two levels. The lower one is combat, quests and exploration. Above it, sky islands tied to the Abyss focus on puzzles and story. Factions hold regions, and quests raise a loyalty rank. In a quarry he found a hidden drill boss. The reward is a drill arm for fighting and gathering. Separately, a thief runs off with money through the streets. Some NPCs still stand still and do not react to the time of day.

There are no classes. Kliff combines styles in one skill tree, from melee and bows to aerial moves and fists. Notice boards offer contracts on fugitives. Theft needs a mask. Threatening townsfolk or hitting guards turns the city hostile. Losing after a crime means jail and a large cut of the player’s money.