Black Desert - GamerTake

Action

Adventure

Massively Multiplayer

RPG

Strategy

Multi-player

MMO

PvP

Online PvP

Co-op

Online Co-op

Steam Trading Cards

In-App Purchases

Partial Controller Support

Black Desert

Action

Adventure

Massively Multiplayer

RPG

Strategy

Multi-player

MMO

PvP

Online PvP

Co-op

Online Co-op

Steam Trading Cards

In-App Purchases

Partial Controller Support

Played by over 20 million Adventurers - Black Desert Online is an open-world, action MMORPG. Experience intense, action-packed combat, battle massive world bosses, fight alongside friends to siege and conquer castles, and train in professions such as fishing, trading, crafting, cooking, and more!

Developers: Pearl Abyss

Publishers: Pearl Abyss

Release Date: May 24, 2017

Price (USD): $0.99

Current Players: 20k

Links: Steam Store SteamDB

Mostly Positive(71%)

dynamic combat

beautiful graphics

vast world

character customization

life skills

overwhelming systems

steep learning curve

PVP balance

repetitive grind

pay-to-win

RNG progression

cluttered UI

predatory monetization

confusing systems

Reviews of the game are highly dichotomous. Many find the combat engaging, with beautiful graphics and deep character customization. However, a significant portion of players criticize the game for its monetization model, calling out predatory pay-to-win practices and expressing frustration over the heavily RNG-based progression systems. While the game's scope and systems offer much to do, the overwhelming number of mechanics and cluttered interface make it daunting for new players. As a result, although Black Desert Online has its dedicated fans, many players are turned off by its grind-heavy and monetization-intensive nature.

Positive Points

The game world is vast and beautifully designed, offering a richly detailed environment for players to explore.

Combat is praised for being dynamic and skillful, akin to a fighting game with combos, dodges, and guards making it engaging and satisfying.

Character customization is highly detailed, allowing for personalized and unique character appearances.

The game offers a diverse range of activities beyond combat, such as fishing, trading, and crafting, which appeal to players interested in life skills and non-combat activities.

Graphics and animations are particularly noteworthy, with some players considering them among the best in the MMO genre.

Negative Points

The game's monetization model is criticized for being predatory, with many conveniences and essential items locked behind real money purchases.

Enhancement and gear progression relies heavily on RNG, which can be frustrating and feel unfair, leading to a pay-to-win environment.

User interface is often described as cluttered and overwhelming, making the game difficult for new players to navigate and understand.

Many players feel that the game becomes a repetitive grind with little meaningful progression, especially in later stages.

Mixed Points

Some players appreciate the endless content and deep systems, while others find it overwhelming and difficult to get into without extensive external guidance.

PvP content is both praised for its fast-paced, skill-based nature and criticized for being skewed heavily by gear differences that can be influenced by spending real money.

Common Themes

Players often mention the overwhelming number of systems and the steep learning curve for newcomers.

The combat system is generally well-received across reviews, noted for its depth and skill requirement.

The game's visuals and open world exploration are highly praised, contributing positively to the overall gaming experience.

Monetization and grind-related complaints feature prominently, with players citing these as significant detractors from the game's enjoyment.

Updated 9/24/2026, 12:02:12 AM UTC

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