INTRODUCTION
Do you love games that combine the thrill of exploration, character customization, and combat in an epic, immersive world? If you answered ‘yes’, then get ready to take your passion for gaming to the next level by entering the world of Black Desert Online (BDO). In BDO, you can sail uncharted seas, redefine yourself as a merchant in flourishing cities or hone your skills on the battlefield. This guide is the perfect beginner-friendly companion to help you navigate this expansive game.
WHAT IS BLACK DESERT ONLINE?
Black Desert Online is a high-fantasy, action MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) developed by Korean video game developer Pearl Abyss. First released in Korea in 2015, it made its way to the West in 2016, taking gamers by storm with its cinematic graphics, complex gameplay, and an open-world brimming with potential. Just imagine World of Warcraft meeting The Witcher, with a bit of Skyrim thrown into the mix – that’s how in-depth and exciting BDO is.
The game allows players to create unique characters that fit their playing style, team up with others for adventurous quests, engage in trade, fishing, cooking, and a host of other life skills. The game’s world is living and ever-expanding, with cyclical day and night, along with dynamic weather systems.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO START
Getting started with Black Desert Online requires a few steps:
1. Purchase the game: Since 2019, the game is not free-to-play, so you must purchase it.
2. Installation: After purchasing, download the game from the official website or Steam.
3. Create an account: Next, you’ll make an account that allows you to log in to the game.
4. Character Creation: This is where the fun begins. BDO is famous for its detailed character creation, allowing you to customize everything from your character’s facial features to their body shape.
5. Choose a Class: Classes in Black Desert Online are gender-locked, meaning some are only available for either male or female characters. Each class has its unique skills and playstyles—from the Berserker who excels in melee combat to the Tamer who can summon beasts to aid in fights.
6. Begin the Adventure: Start your journey in the expansive world of BDO by accepting your first quest.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play Black Desert Online, you need:
1. The Game: You need a valid copy of the game. It can be purchased from the official BDO website or on Steam.
2. A Good PC: A PC with at least 8 GB RAM, an i3 processor, and a GTX 650 1GB graphics card should be enough for minimal settings.
3. Internet Connection: You need a stable internet connection as BDO is an online-only game.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Understand Your Class: Each class is unique. Spend a good time with your chosen class to understand its playstyle.
2. Grind Wisely: Grinding means consistently fighting enemies to level up. It’s an essential part of BDO which can’t be avoided.
3. Start Life Skills Early: Engaging in crafting, fishing, farming, and other life skills early can provide a steady source of income.
4. Join a Guild: Joining a Guild provides access to unique quests and can be a crucial source of social interaction.
5. Explore: With BDO’s vast world, there’s always something new to see. Don’t rush the game; ensure you take time to explore.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
1. Official Black Desert Online Forums: Here you can find guides, ask questions, and interact with other players.
2. Black Desert Online Reddit: A community of BDO players sharing tips, experiences, and helping each other out.
3. Black Desert Foundry: This site offers detailed guides on everything from character creation to combat strategies.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Node: A specific area that players can invest their Contribution Points (CP) to gain various benefits.
2. Grinding: The action of levelling up by repeatedly defeating enemies.
3. AFK: Away from Keyboard, referring to the time when players remain logged in but are not actively playing.
4. PVP: Player vs Player, a combat mode where players fight against each other.
5. Guild: Groups of players who team up to complete quests, earn experience, and socialize.
NEXT STEPS:
Now you’re ready to begin your journey in the immense world of Black Desert Online. Remember – exploring and experimenting is a key part of the game, so don’t be afraid of making mistakes. As you grow familiar with the game’s mechanics, each challenge will become a thrilling adventure in itself. So go ahead, dive in and enjoy the unique, immersive world of Black Desert Online!
