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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: 17k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Mostly Positive(71%)
stunning graphics
engaging combat
deep customization
immersive world
frequent updates
complex systems
grind-focused
PvP balance
steep learning curve
pay-to-win
RNG enhancement
poor optimization
region locking
The game's graphics and combat are consistently praised for their quality and intensity, offering a visually pleasing and engaging experience that stands out in the MMO genre. However, the overwhelming complexity and steep learning curve pose significant barriers for newcomers. Furthermore, the pay-to-win elements and burdensome grind are frequent points of criticism, painting a picture of a game that demands significant time or financial investment. Despite this, for those who can navigate its complexities, the game provides an immersive world with varied playstyles.

Positive Points

  • The game features visually stunning graphics that remain appealing even years after its release. Players appreciate the dynamic and action-packed combat system that feels engaging and skill-based.
  • Character customization is deep and detailed, allowing players to create unique avatars with a variety of looks and styles.
  • There is a vast, immersive world with a multitude of activities, including lifeskills such as fishing, cooking, trading, and crafting, offering players diverse ways to engage with the game.
  • Updates and events are frequent, providing fresh content and free rewards, which are particularly appreciated by new or returning players.

    • Negative Points

  • The game has a steep learning curve with a convoluted and overwhelming UI, making it unfriendly to new players.
  • Significant pay-to-win elements exist, where progress can accelerate considerably if players are willing to spend money in the cash shop.
  • The enhancement system is heavily reliant on RNG, which can result in frustrating experiences as failures can lead to downgrades.
  • Issues such as poor optimization, region locking, and language restrictions add to the frustration of players, particularly those in certain regions.

    • Mixed Points

  • The grind-focused gameplay appeals to some players who enjoy the effort-based progression, while others find it tedious and exhausting.
  • PvP is both a highlight and a point of contention, as it can be engaging due to skill-based combat but is often plagued by balance issues and can be dominated by players who invest heavily in microtransactions.
  • Lifeskilling and other non-combat activities offer enjoyable diversions, but they tend to be overshadowed by the necessity to grind for gear and progress.

    • Common Themes

  • The game is often described as a beautiful but flawed gem, where its artistic quality and engaging combat are counterbalanced by a taxing progression system and monetization practices.
  • Players frequently mention the complexity and depth of the game's systems, both as a positive for those who enjoy deep, immersive experience, and a negative for those who seek straightforward gameplay.
  • There is a strong sentiment that despite its issues, Black Desert Online offers a unique experience in the MMO genre, with a combination of stunning visuals and active combat not found in other games.
    • Updated 1/7/2026, 12:01:54 AM UTC
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