While exploring certain ruins and puzzle locations in Crimson Desert, players will eventually encounter a large mechanical structure with a locked device that needs to be activated. At first glance, the puzzle can feel confusing because part of the solution takes place underground, while the rest happens above ground around the structure.
To activate the device, you must first solve a switch puzzle located beneath the structure. After that, you will need to collect several batteries and insert them into nearby pillars to power the machine. If you are unsure where to start, the steps below explain exactly how to complete this puzzle.
How to Reach the Underground Switch
When you arrive at the location, you will notice a large orb-like machine in the center of the area. The switch required to activate the device is not on the surface. Instead, look for the stairs on the right side of the structure. These stairs lead down to a small underground section located directly beneath the main device. Follow the stairs downward until you reach a room with a switch panel puzzle. This is where you must activate the lock device mechanism.
How to Solve the Switch Puzzle
When interacting with the panel, you will notice several switches arranged in a grid. Pressing one switch will also affect the switches positioned in a straight line next to it. Because of this mechanic, pressing them randomly will not work.
Use the following order to solve the puzzle correctly:
- Press the top left switch.
- Press the bottom right switch.
- Press the center switch in the middle.
- Press the top right switch.
- Press the bottom left switch.
After completing this sequence, all switches should be activated. Once the puzzle is solved, you will be able to operate the nearby handle.
Pulling the handle will begin powering the mechanism and open the chamber of the device, but it will still require batteries before it can fully activate.
How to Find the Batteries
After activating the underground switch, return to the surface by using the same stairs.
Around the large structure, you will see four pillars placed nearby. Each pillar requires a battery to power the device. These batteries are located near the pillars and are usually marked on your map, making them easier to find.
To collect them, use your special hand ability to pick up the battery objects.
How to Insert the Batteries
Once you grab a battery, carry it toward one of the pillars surrounding the device. As you move the battery closer to the correct position, you will notice that it automatically aligns itself with the slot. You will also see green leaf-like effects appear around the battery. This visual cue indicates that the battery is in the correct position. When the battery is properly aligned:
- Aim at the battery using your lantern.
- Use the Force Punch ability to launch the battery into the pillar.
The battery will snap into place and power that pillar.
Repeat this same process for all the remaining pillars by collecting each battery and punching it into position.
Activating the lock device in Crimson Desert requires solving a small puzzle underground and then powering the structure using multiple batteries above ground. The key steps are solving the switch panel in the correct order and using your abilities to place the batteries into the surrounding pillars.
Once all the pillars are powered, the machine will fully activate and allow you to continue progressing through the area. If you follow the switch order and battery placement carefully, the entire puzzle can be completed fairly quickly.