I was a latecomer to the massive world of MMORPGs, only diving in last year. The whole genre can often feel like a fortress of complexity. Every major title seems to have layers of intricate lore, countless characters, expansive content, and an entrenched player community. It’s a bit intimidating, to say the least. This is precisely why games need to roll out the welcome mat for newcomers, and Final Fantasy 14 did just that for me with its extensive free trial. If you’ve got your sights set on the upcoming action-adventure game, Crimson Desert, and are curious about its MMORPG sibling, Black Desert Online, now’s the time to seize the opportunity to get it for free for a limited period.
While we’re still playing the waiting game for Crimson Desert to hit the market, this is an excellent moment to delve into the vast universe of Pearl Abyss’ Black Desert Online—or BDO, as it’s commonly known. Its visual design stands apart from titans like World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy 14, offering a fresh and distinct aesthetic. BDO really sets itself apart with its more dynamic combat system, which flows seamlessly and brings a visceral excitement to each battle.
Beyond just individual skirmishes, BDO’s combat prowess extends to its massive 600-player PvP mode. Introduced with the War of the Roses update, two massive teams—comprised of 300 players each—either defend or attack a fortress. It’s a battlefield rife with siege engines and close-quarters brawling, but it’s geared towards veteran players, so fresh-faced adventurers will want to hone their skills first.
If you’re as enamored with FF14’s diverse range of jobs as I am, then BDO should definitely be on your radar. This year saw the introduction of the intriguing Dosa class, who wields both a sword and a spirit-summoning pipe. And let’s not forget the swift Deadeye class, recently added to BDO’s global lab. This character is a whirlwind of speed, using twin revolvers and a shotgun to weave through foes with deadly efficiency.
Perhaps one of the most inviting aspects of Black Desert Online is its cost structure—or lack thereof. No ongoing subscription is necessary to keep playing. Typically, the game would set you back $10 / £9 (though trying the free trial is always an option first), but subscribing remains purely optional. If, like me, you find yourself dedicating hundreds of hours to the game, you might consider the Value Pack. It enhances the experience with perks like extra inventory, storage space, an EXP boost, unlimited customization options, and more, but it’s by no means mandatory.
To celebrate, Black Desert Online is currently—or should I say, temporarily—free on Steam until Monday, January 6, 2025. Don’t miss this chance to grab it at no cost.
Our colleague Ken recently got a firsthand look at Pearl Abyss’ eagerly anticipated Crimson Desert during Gamescom. For those eagerly awaiting its release, his insights are a must-read.
As you get ready to step into BDO, be sure to utilize the myriad of Black Desert Online codes available, and take advantage of our thorough beginner’s guide to get started on the right foot.
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