Crimson Desert Arm Wrestling: How to Master This Mini-Game

Alexandre Jollier March 20, 2026 at 1:10 PM

In brief

Crimson Desert's arm wrestling is a mini-game available at Hernand's tavern that requires speed and reflexes to triumph over the guards. Mastering the timing of the circular gauge and observing each opponent's behavior are the keys to winning the challenges and unlocking rewards.

In Crimson Desert, the arm wrestling mini-game is a fun experience you can enjoy at Hernand's tavern. In this article, we'll look at the tricks to use to triumph in this mini-game, and give you some tips to make your experience more enjoyable.

Overview and rules of the arm wrestling mini-game

Arm wrestling is a face-off against a guard from the town of Hernand. This challenge becomes available after helping a friendly merchant save Kliff from the river. The first attempt is free, but subsequent ones will cost you 20 tokens. The arm wrestling match starts with a countdown, and you'll need to be ready to frantically hit the buttons, which change depending on the platform:

PC: press the “E” key
Xbox: mash the “X” button
PlayStation: mash the “Square” button

Winning mainly requires speed of execution and reflexes, as you not only need to be quick when pressing the buttons, but also pay attention to what's displayed on screen. A circular indicator appears to show you the moment to release the button, as well as when you need to press it again.

Winning strategies

This mini-game is above all about timing. When the circular indicator appears, wait until the needle is in the gray zone before releasing the button, this will give you a big advantage over your opponent.

As with any learning process, you need to practice regularly to improve. By making several attempts, you'll get a feel for the game's rhythm and hone your reflexes and speed.

Tip

Each guard has their own way of playing. Take the time to observe them before adapting your strategy accordingly.

Once you've mastered arm wrestling, you can take on new challenges to improve your ability!

The hero's handshake challenge involves winning three arm wrestling matches in a row before earning the right (and the duty!) to face the champion. Completing this challenge will grant you an Artifact of the Abyss, which will let you either unlock new skills or upgrade the ones you already have.

Note

The matches increase in difficulty as you progress. With each new encounter, the guards prove tougher to beat, so the sweeter the taste of victory!

What's your favorite type of mini-game in RPGs?

Frequently asked questions

Which button do I need to press for arm wrestling on my platform?

It depends on your platform: on PC you press the "E" key, on Xbox the "X" button, and on PlayStation the "Square" button.

How do I unlock the arm wrestling mini-game?

You must first help a friendly merchant save Kliff from the river to gain access to the arm wrestling challenge at Hernand's tavern.

What do I win by beating the champion after three consecutive victories?

You receive an Abyssal Artifact that lets you unlock new skills or upgrade ones you already have.

How can I improve my arm wrestling performance?

Practice regularly to get a feel for the game's rhythm, observe each guard's specific strategies, and hone your timing with the circular gauge.

Key takeaways

Timing is crucial: release the button when the needle enters the gray zone to gain the advantage.
The first attempt is free, subsequent ones cost 20 tokens each.
Observe each guard's play habits to adapt your strategy accordingly.
Winning three consecutive arm wrestling matches lets you face the champion and earn an Abyssal Artifact.
The difficulty increases progressively with each new match against tougher opponents.