INTRODUCTION
Ever wanted to dive into an exciting, immersive, and very dynamic world in a video game? Maybe you’ve heard of Black Desert Online (BDO) and wondered what all the buzz is about. If you’re fond of MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) that offer stunning visuals, extensive character customization options, and real-time combat, then sit back and let this beginner-friendly guide take you through the basics of this fantastic game.
WHAT IS BLACK DESERT ONLINE?
Black Desert Online is a highly popular MMORPG developed and published by the South Korean company Pearl Abyss. Released in 2014, it has quickly become a favorite within the gaming community due to its rich lore, intricate gameplay mechanisms, and a fascinatingly diverse open-world environment that incorporates both PvE (Player versus Environment) and PvP (Player versus Player).
Set in a high fantasy setting, the game lets you dive deeply into the continent of Black Desert with your custom-made avatar. It’s reminiscent of other famous games like Elder Scrolls Online and Final Fantasy XIV, yet it offers unique features such as intricate life skills like fishing, trading, horse training, and even parkour!
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO START
Black Desert Online works by hosting many players in the same world. You start by choosing and customizing your character from the offered classes, including Warriors, Rangers, Sorceresses, and many more. Each style has unique combat strategies and skills, which you can enhance as you progress further into the game.
The gameplay is not just about fighting monsters and other players but also about exploring different cities, interacting with NPC’s (Non-Player Characters), taking on various quests, and mastering in-game activities like crafting, horse taming, fishing, and much more.
Once you’ve made your selection and adjusted your character aesthetics to your satisfaction, you’re free to roam around in the vast world of BDO. The beginning is all about getting familiar with the many possibilities of this game world.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To start your BDO journey, you will need a stable internet connection and a PC or one of the compatible consoles (Playstation 4 & 5 or Xbox One & Series X|S). While the game can be played for free, there is also a premium service called the ‘Value Pack’ which offers exclusive benefits.
When it comes to gear, there isn’t any specialized equipment needed. However, a mouse with additional buttons could be beneficial due to many combinations of skills available.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Don’t rush: Take your time to discover and understand the game’s mechanisms.
2. Start with quests: The main and secondary quests are an excellent way to level up and learn about the game.
3. Learn to manage inventory: Space management is essential in BDO as inventory is limited.
4. Engage in life skills: Life skills like farming, fishing, or cooking can be a reliable source of income.
5. Learn about Nodes and Workers: Nodes are areas you can send hired NPCs (workers) to gather resources. It’s a passive way to generate resources.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Several resources can assist new players. For detailed guides and helpful tips, you can visit sites like ‘bdocodex.com’ or ‘grumpygreen.cricket’. Reddit also has a very active Black Desert Online community where you can ask questions and share strategies. On YouTube, channels like ‘TheLazyPeon’ offer insightful game reviews and tips.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Node: An area that you can send workers to gather resources.
2. Grinding: Killing monsters for experience points.
3. PvE / PvP: Player versus Environment / Player versus Player.
4. Awakening: A second phase of every class that provides access to new abilities.
5. Lifeskill: Non-combat activities like farming, fishing, or trading.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Once you’ve got the basics down, start exploring the world of Black Desert Online at your own pace. Don’t be afraid to dive into different facets of the game – join guilds, participate in node wars, or take up quests. The more you play, the more the world opens up. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun. Welcome to the enthralling world of Black Desert Online!
