Major Updates Including New Class and Region Unveiled by Black Desert at Heidel Ball 2025

At the annual Heidel Ball 2025, Pearl Abyss unveiled their plans for the future of Black Desert Online. The event, which convenes the game’s international community, saw the announcement of numerous modifications and additions, including a novel class, an entirely new continent to explore, and a range of enhancements aimed at making the gaming experience even more engaging for both new and seasoned players.

Since its inception in 2015, Black Desert Online has gained a reputation for intense combat mechanics, comprehensive life skills, and expansive open landscapes. The MMORPG keeps evolving with frequent expansions and revamps, with the recent Heidel Ball indicating Pearl Abyss’ continuing resolve to develop the game’s systems and content.

A summary of the major updates and features revealed for Black Desert:

• New Class: Wukong – Based on the mythical Monkey King from Journey to the West, Wukong is introduced as a rapid melee combatant. Wukong will be available from June 28 in the Global Lab, featuring specialized skills such as generating duplicates and employing an extendable pole for broad attacks, and the legendary Flying Nimbus for movement.
• New Region: Edania – The much-anticipated northern continent, Edania, makes its debut with five novel castles, distinct monster species, and a variety of new artifacts, crystals, and alchemy recipes. Edania brings in new stats like “Extra Damage to Edanian Monsters.”
• Enhanced New Player Experience – Olvia Town is transitioning into the “Olvia School,” a hub tailored for beginners that offers ascending rewards and a sociable, semester-like atmosphere. Hatchling players will also receive substantial silver allotments as they progress through the introductory quests.
• UI and QoL Upgrades – Pearl Abyss is implementing modifications such as:
  • Keeping track of all 33 types of Buff status
  • A distinct Enhancement Inventory for materials
  • An updated Enhancement UI for better understanding
  • All-in-One Presets for effortless build swaps
  • Navigational improvements for the World Map and Event Page
  • Adventure Log revisions that converge stat rewards and divert some to cosmetics
• Sovereign Sub-Weapon – A novel sub-weapon that merges the stats of existing boss weapons Kutum and Nouver is in the works, featuring several crafting options and upgrade paths.
• Mythical Horse Prototype – A sneak peek of a new mount fusing the capacities of all three present mythical steeds (Doom, Arduanatt, Diné) was showcased by Pearl Abyss. The community will have a say in finalising its design and name.
• PvP System Redesign – Major modifications to PvP are in progress, including:
  • Standardization of accuracy, evasion, and damage formulas
  • Amendments to Super Armor damage reduction
  • Revised extra damage stats for PvE and PvP
  • Streamlined summon mechanics with main character stats
  • Total elimination of resistances in PvP
  • Deactivation of mouse movement for better stability
  • Class damage modifier reorganization for optimized performance
• Master Class Tournament – A forthcoming global 1v1 PvP tournament this autumn will see players vying for the title of the strongest in each game class (including Wukong). Winners will be bestowed with unique mounts, titles, and will also be recognized live at the next event.
• New Costumes and Event Prizes – Two exclusive outfits and a bunch of in-game rewards—including Cron Stones, J’s Hammers, item exchange vouchers, and rare enhancement items—are being handed out as part of the Heidel Ball celebrations.