Is it Worth Playing Black Desert Online?
Black Desert Online, one of the most critiqued MMO after World of Warcraft & Final Fantasy 14. It was globally released way back in 2016 (2014 in Korea) yet still highly regarded as one of the best combat MMORPG 10+ years later. The game itself is a true Buy to Play business model where all its expansions has been free unlike other major players in the MMO industry. Further, while it does not have a subscribe to play feature; it does have something called the Premium Subscription through Value Packs which can also be purchased in-game through in game currency.
It’s been a very long journey for Black Desert Online and me, still remember back when it first dropped, grinding Sausans mobs, pushing the impossible level 60s grind. It really was truly one of the best Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games during that time with its peak node wars and guild vs guild content. Every year or two, I come crawling back like a toxic relationship, never able to truly get away. What actually pulls me back is, BDO still has one of the most beautiful graphics in the industry, the game has been constantly updated throughout the years, both visually, feature wise and quality of life, polishing it even better. Even if a BDO Classic ever do drop, and despite how much fun it would be to live the Sausan and Elric Shrine days again it would feel like a totally different game, for the worse. At least in my own opinion that is.
While some things never change with Korean MMOs, Black Desert Online is still extremely grindy, so grinding that it is actually a constant forever grind unlike Maplestory where you can actually see the light at the end of the tunnel such as reaching 300, maxing HEXA etc. One quality of life is that, while BDO is still heavily relied on luck (rng) on all aspects, it now gives a true pity experience (Agris Essence) were after x number of failures, you will be guaranteed a success on the next attempt.
So, what does Fayie think, is the game really worth playing in 2025?
Is Black Desert Still Good?
Publisher
Ever since Pearl Abyss who took back the title, Black Desert Online in my personal opinion has been going on a positive trend in most aspects in trends of quality of life. They have made plenty of questionable changes such as with PvP as a whole making PvP am extremely worse experience then it already really is.
Despite that, Pearl Abyss has yet to show any signs of “slowing down” or “abandoning” the project as a whole giving us TWO new classes in 2024, the Dosa and Deadeye, along with a possible 2 more in 2025 with WuKong already released and a possible Savior by the end of 2025. In fact, I still personally believe while there are many letdowns by PA such as the constantly adding further nerfs (further punishments for open world PVP players), PA is doing a much better job running Black Desert Online than Kakao Games.
The one thing I do like about Kakao over Pearl Abyss is the quality of the sales they do, Pearl Abyss tends to just put in the same “Whale” sales over and over while not really focusing on the functional, convenience or practical side of things like having actual customizable weight, maid, pets etc bundles outside the here a few we mashed together, enjoy. Like the recent 3 maid bundle at a 20% off. Another example would be, despite being an heavy fishing game, the tanks barely to ever go on sale. Or crystal presets & inventory has been on sale once or twice since release despite it being a must have.
Combat
The combat in Black Desert Online remains one of the smoothest and most dynamic experiences in the action MMORPG genre. Even in 2025, it’s still widely regarded for its seamless, combo-based system that makes every fight feel fluid and impactful. While lag and de-sync can occasionally be an issue; despite server improvements; most players find it manageable unless they’re dealing with poor ping. The skill animations are still incredibly smooth, and the combo system feels organic, rather than just a series of disconnected moves.
That said, being a Korean MMORPG, Black Desert does come with its trademark grind. If you’re not a fan of repetitive monster hunting and mastering the same skill rotations over and over, the grind might start to feel overwhelming. However, for those who enjoy it, the satisfaction of leveling up and progressing is deeply rewarding. Thankfully, BDO has evolved over the years and now offers a variety of content beyond just the grind. Players can dive into a rich array of quests, lifeskilling activities like crafting, and a vast selection of PvP modes, which provide plenty of variety for those looking to explore the game from different angles.
Early-Mid Game
Unlike in the past, where the early game was generally considered to be anything before level 56, the definition of “early game” in Black Desert Online has shifted with recent updates. Now, pre-60 serves more as an introductory phase, while the true early game spans from level 60 to 61. After hitting level 61, you’re entering mid-game or end-game territory, depending on your gear.
One of the most notable changes in 2024 is how quickly the game helps you progress. Reaching level 60 has become much faster, typically within an hour or two for most players, thanks to new progression boosts and streamlined systems. With frequent updates targeting newcomers, BDO remains highly accessible for those just starting out.
However, some issues from the past persist, particularly for new players. My biggest gripe is the early game experience, especially for those not invested in the lore or the in-game store. (Personally, I was quite lost at first.) Players can easily spend over six hours running back and forth between NPCs and towns, mostly interacting by pressing the “R” button, with minimal combat involvement. If you’re looking for action, the grind to get to the fun parts can feel slow and tedious. For context, the new LotML questline has over 280 quests to complete all 12 tales, a stark contrast to the old Balenos questline, which only had 76. Some quests feel frustratingly pointless, like buying a potion from one NPC and immediately giving it back to the same one.
This can be a tough experience for anyone eager to jump into Black Desert Online, and it’s still a significant hurdle for newcomers trying to get their feet wet. Especially when they use the LoTML or Mountain of Eternal Winter main quest line, they really don’t experience any combat until level 58+.
Post Early-Mid Game
Grind, grind grind
This is where the real fun begins. Well ok, that is a lie, getting into Black Desert Online is overwhelming and honestly, a terrible experience. Quite a number of my friends quit BDO over the experiences they received early on. It’s either being an R monkey or reading the storyline you honestly don’t care about. Or you go bonk and commit mass genocide to mobs that basically cannot fight back thus no real challenge.
The real fun begins when players move out of the one shot spots, while there’s no strict level requirement for endgame content, most of the Black Desert Online community would agree that reaching around 320 AP and 410 DP is the standard benchmark to start diving into mid to endgame content. With recent updates, getting to these stats has become much more achievable, making the progression feel more accessible than it was a few years ago.
Endgame content in BDO revolves around both PvE and PvP, with the primary goal being to max out your fallen god gear to a minimum of full some TET, getting at least full set of PEN Sovereign weapons (Subweapon included) and a full set of PEN & above Kharazard accessories with full cups. While this core objective hasn’t changed much; grind & upgrade, the game now makes it much easier to obtain and upgrade gear to progress compared to the past.
In fact, Endgame content is actually gear-score locked at the minimum of 350 AP & 427 DP to even commit to one of the very first bosses in the latest Edania content in 2025.
For lifeskillers, the endgame experience in Black Desert Online has evolved, but many aspects remain familiar. While core life skills such as Fishing, Farming, and Trading still play an important role, there’s now a significant emphasis on “life skills” gear that can enhance your efficiency and output in these activities. The introduction of specialized gear for life skills—such as tools and equipment tailored for Cooking, Alchemy, or Gathering—has made these non-combat activities more rewarding and valuable for players looking to excel outside of combat. Notably, the introduction of Preonne accessories in 2025 will provide a substantial boost to life skill progression, with these accessories offering mastery bonuses and more accessible gearing options.
In addition to gear, reaching Guru rank in key life skills has become a major milestone. Guru rank represents the pinnacle of mastery in each life skill specialty, such as Cooking, Alchemy, or Horse Training. Achieving this rank not only unlocks unique benefits and abilities but also brings with it prestige within the community. Players who focus on these life skills can craft rare items, brew powerful potions, or breed top-tier horses, contributing greatly to the in-game economy and providing crucial resources for combat-focused players.
The lifeskilling experience in BDO is no longer just a side activity; it’s a fully developed part of the endgame that offers deep progression systems, valuable rewards, and a chance to enjoy a more relaxed, yet still highly engaging, part of the game.
Customization
Character Customization
Black Desert Online offers near-limitless character customization, especially if you have an active “Value Pack” subscription. With this subscription, you’re entitled to unlimited customization options for your character, as long as the subscription remains active. Since the Value Pack is account-based, all characters on your account will receive the benefits. This extends beyond just character appearance, as it also includes a full selection of weapon and gear dyes, all available for free.
If one day you feel like giving your character a wild, drastic makeover, that’s completely fine. There are no limits to how often you can change their look as long as the subscription is active. And if you wake up the next day wanting a completely new look, you can easily make that happen, without any restrictions.
State of Game
Updates
Black Desert Online continues to evolve, remaining one of the most visually stunning and mechanically engaging MMORPGs on the market. In 2025, the game is in a stable state, balancing both its sprawling PvE content and intense, high-skill PvP mechanics. Thanks to frequent updates and a dedicated development team at Pearl Abyss, BDO has maintained its relevance in a crowded MMO space, with new content constantly being introduced and events happening constantly. With new classes coming out every 3-8 months, PA really doesn’t seem to be slowing down despite having other big projects happening.
Events
Black Desert Online is known for its frequent in-game events, which are a core part of the experience for both new and veteran players. These events range from time-limited activities like boss fights, fishing tournaments, and guild wars, to more extensive seasonal events tied to in-game holidays or updates. Seasonal content plays a huge role in keeping the game fresh, offering players the chance to earn exclusive rewards, special gear, and even new classes. The Spring Blossom Festival, Winter Season, and Halloween events are some of the recurring highlights that bring the community together, creating a festive atmosphere with themed activities and bonuses. Additionally, the introduction of Seasonal Characters provides players with a unique progression system, often with enhanced leveling rates and special rewards. These events not only offer engaging content but also foster a sense of camaraderie within the community, keeping the game dynamic and full of surprises year-round.
In a way, BDO’s event structure mirrors that of MapleStory, another MMORPG known for its constant flow of in-game events. Both games excel at keeping their player bases engaged with a never-ending cycle of seasonal celebrations, limited-time activities, and special rewards. Just as MapleStory players can expect fresh events throughout the year, BDO ensures there’s always something exciting on the horizon, whether you’re a PvE enthusiast, a dedicated lifeskiller, or a competitive PvPer. The continuous event-driven content ensures that both games remain vibrant, offering players new experiences and incentives to log in regularly.
Cash Shop
Black Desert Online follows a buy-to-play model, meaning players must purchase the game upfront before they can access its content. Once you’ve bought the game, the cash shop serves as the primary means of monetization, offering a variety of items to enhance your gameplay experience. While the core content and progression can be fully enjoyed without spending extra money, the cash shop provides a wide range of options to improve convenience, power, and customization.
The items available in the cash shop are divided into several categories, allowing players to tailor their purchases based on their preferences. Some items provide essential quality-of-life improvements, such as extra inventory space, weight limit increases, or pets that help with looting. Others focus on enhancing character aesthetics, offering a variety of cosmetics and gear upgrades. While every cosmetic item provides the same stats, players are free to choose the design that suits them best. As long as you have the cosmetic, the stats remain the same, allowing you to express your personal style without worrying about performance differences.
While BDO‘s cash shop offers numerous options, it’s important to note that none of these purchases are required to fully enjoy the game. The shop is designed to enhance the player experience but is not essential for those who prefer to progress through in-game efforts alone
Must-Have Items
These are the essentials that most players find necessary for an efficient and enjoyable Black Desert Online experience. While not strictly required, the items in this category significantly improve quality of life and gameplay. These are pretty much your account level upgrades
- Pets: Pets automatically loot items dropped by monsters, saving players time and effort. Having a full roster of pets is considered a must for many players, as they can also help with other activities like gathering and fishing.
- Crystal Expansions: Increasing your character’s crystal inventory space is vital for managing and swapping between different builds efficiently. Having enough space to store all the different type of crystals in game can make a big difference in gameplay.
- Weight Limit Increases: Weight capacity is crucial in BDO as it allows players to carry more items, which is especially important when farming, gathering, or engaging in long grind sessions. The more weight you can carry, the less time you’ll spend running back and forth to town.
- Outfits: 8 Set outfit bonus is a must have for anyone who is grinding, which means, you need to buy underwear as you cannot get them anywhere else besides very rare in game events.
Account, Gear and Cosmetic Upgrades
This category includes items that either boost stats or provide cosmetic upgrades that are more than just aesthetic. Many cosmetics in BDO offer meaningful bonuses, making them more than just a fashion statement:
- Fairy Upgrade Orbs: These orbs are used to enhance and upgrade your fairy companion, which offers beneficial passive bonuses such as auto-pot, auto-buff, and more. Fairy Upgrade Orbs, which can be purchased in the cash shop, allow players to improve their fairy’s tier, unlocking more powerful bonuses to support your activities in both PvE and PvP. Getting a proper max fairy is like getting full T5/T4 pets, a real game changer.
- Fishing Otter Backpack: A cosmetic item that provides a boost to your fishing experience, making it a popular choice for lifeskillers. Far from being just cosmetic, it offers ridiculous benefit in terms of in-game stats such as +100 mastery and durability decrease stats. This slot can only be currently filled by buying the Otter backpack. There is no lesser version or alternative in game as of Early 2025.
- Cosmetic Life Skill Gear: Certain life skill-specific gear, such as outfits for gathering, warehouse processing, or crafting, offer stat bonuses to make these activities more efficient. While they enhance the performance of life skills, these items also provide an opportunity to personalize the look of your life skill activities, adding both function and style.
- Horse Gear: Cosmetic gear for horses not only changes the appearance of your mount but also provides stat boosts that enhance your horse’s performance. Items like saddles, saddlebags, and horseshoes improve speed, stamina, and other stats, giving players an edge in both combat and transportation.
Subscription
Black Desert Online offers three main subscription options, each providing a unique set of benefits designed to improve various aspects of gameplay. Here’s a summary of what each subscription offers:
- Value Pack: The most popular subscription for enhancing overall convenience, the Value Pack provides numerous benefits, including:
- Inventory Slot +16
- Storage Slot +16
- Combat/Skill/Life/Mount EXP +30%
- Distant Node Investment (Consumes 10 Energy)
- Weight Limit +200 LT
- +30% Silver Collection upon Central Market Sales (Excluding Pearl Items)
- Unlimited use of Merv’s Palette
- Unlimited Customization
- Value Pack buffs do not stack with each other, but duration does.
- Barter Refresh Points +50
- Required Parley for Barter -10%
- Allows you to remotely check or skip Special Barter
- Secret Book of Old Moon: Ideal for players focusing on progression, this subscription boosts experience gains and provides an important skill reset feature:
- Combat EXP +100%
- Skill EXP +50%
- Life EXP +50%
- Reset (enhanced) skills freely
- Change Skill Add-ons for free
- Change Skill Preset (Cooldown: 1 min)
- Buy Villa Scrolls via your campsite without having a Villa Invitation
- Stable slot +1 (for all regions)
- Wharf slot +1 (for all regions)
- Blessing of Kamasylve: This subscription focuses on improving loot efficiency and resource management:
- Energy Recovery +2
- Item Drop Rate +20%
- Central Market Warehouse Capacity +4,000 VT
- Transaction Maid Volume Limit +100 VT
- Storage Transport Weight Limit +1,500 LT
Gambling Boxes
These are items that players can purchase in hopes of winning valuable rewards, but the outcome is entirely random, making them a form of “gambling” in the game. These boxes often contain rare cosmetics, gear, or even premium items, but they are not guaranteed:
- Gambling Boxes: These boxes come in various forms, such as the Blacksmith’s Shiny Box, and other seasonal boxes. The odds of getting top-tier items are slim, but players may find themselves spending more to try their luck. These boxes often include rare or powerful items like mounts, costumes, or accessories that aren’t available through regular gameplay.
While some players enjoy the thrill of opening these boxes, many view them as a controversial aspect of the cash shop, as they lean heavily on random chance and can lead to significant spending without guaranteed rewards.
Artwork
The artwork in Black Desert Online is nothing short of breathtaking. Even at medium or low settings, the graphics remain stunning, capturing the essence of its medieval fantasy world. From the lush landscapes to intricate cityscapes, every detail immerses you in a vibrant and dynamic environment. The combat visuals are equally impressive, with fluid skill animations and jaw-dropping effects that make every battle a spectacle.
Black Desert was a visual masterpiece when it first launched, and the shift to its own custom game engine elevated the graphics even further with the introduction of Black Desert Online Remastered. This upgrade pushed the boundaries of what MMORPG visuals could achieve, solidifying the game as one of the most beautiful in the genre, paired with top-tier action combat gameplay.
While the aesthetic is undeniably gorgeous, the game’s dark and gritty tone might not appeal to everyone. Personally, I sometimes wish for a more vibrant palette—but that’s a matter of preference. If you’re looking for a game that combines stunning visuals with exhilarating action combat, Black Desert Online is always at the top of the list.
Is Black Desert Online Worth Playing
Fun
So, is Black Desert Online fun to play? In my honest opinion, it absolutely is. I recently reached level 63 on my Striker and Ranger, and I’m still enjoying the game alongside a few friends. The grind feels more rewarding now, especially when you’re making over 1.3 billion silver an hour, even on a bad day. Progression feels like a marathon rather than a sprint, which keeps the journey engaging for long-term players.
With Pearl Abyss consistently rolling out updates and making progression more accessible, the game remains fresh and exciting. Whether you’re grinding for gear, life-skilling, or engaging in PvP, there’s always something to do. The upgraded pity system has made significant strides in reducing the frustration of RNG, making progression more player-friendly than ever.
That said, one downside for me is tied to collecting cosmetics. I love curating a wardrobe for my characters (which enviably and sadly gets cronned when I need more crons), but not all cosmetics are available on the Central Market for in-game currency, which can push players toward spending real money. It’s a minor frustration in an otherwise fantastic experience.
All things considered; Black Desert Online remains one of the best MMORPGs on the market. It’s incredibly easy to jump in, have fun, and make steady progress, whether you’re a new player or a seasoned veteran. With constant improvements and additions every patch, Black Desert Online in 2025 is absolutely worth playing. If you’re looking for a visually stunning, action-packed MMO with endless content, this is the game to try.
