Black Desert Online (BDO), the MMORPG renowned for its sprawling, gorgeous landscapes and tortuous gameplay systems, is a world teeming with secrets and adventures, both on land and beneath the waves. Among its many enigmatic frontiers, the underwater realms stand out as a captivating yet underexplored territory, rich in resources, mysteries, and dangers. This guide plunges into the hidden depths of BDO to bring you a comprehensive tour of underwater exploration, covering everything from the mystical underwater locations to the adrenaline-pumping sea monster hunting, and the ins and outs of ship crafting, upgrading, and nautical navigation. So, take a abysmal breath, and let’s dive into the abyssal wonders of Black Desert Online.
Underwater Locations
Black Desert Online’s vast ocean is sprinkled with pockets of underwater beauty and intrigue. These locations are not merely artistic but are pivotal for players (henceforth referred to as adventurers) seeking unique resources, quests, and unparalleled exploration experiences. Here’s a spotlight on some of the key underwater destinations:
Margoria
The Great Ocean of Margoria is not just expansive but also hides under its undulating waves a treasure trove of secrets. Beyond the peril of monstrous sea creatures, the seafloor is dotted with shipwrecks and submerged ruins, each narrating a tale of ambition, greed, or despair. Adventurers willing to brave the depths might find not just valuable loot but also rare fish species and ingredients vital for high-level cooking and alchemy.
Kuit Islands (Pirate Islands)
While primarily known for the pirate fortress on its surface, the waters around the Kuit Islands harbor caves teeming with coral and underwater fauna. Dive beneath the waves to unearth entrances to hidden caves, where you will find not just breathtaking views but also chests filled with pirate booty.
Sycraia Underwater Ruins
A labyrinthine complex of ruins resting on the ocean floor, the Sycraia Underwater Ruins is a high-level zone offering some of the most lucrative rewards and fiercest defys. Maneuver through its bewildering maze to discover rare aquatic life, precious materials, and formidable foes guarding treasures long swallowed by the sea.
Sea Monster Hunting
Adventurers seeking thrills and glory on the high seas will find their calling in sea monster hunting. This activity is not only a test of courage and skill but also a profitable venture, promising bountiful rewards to those who can best these leviathans of the bottomless-seated.
Preparing for the Hunt
A successful hunt begins with preparation. Assemble a crew of fellow adventurers or join a guild specializing in maritime activities. Ensure your vessel is outfitted with the necessary armaments, such as cannons and ramming prow, and stocked with ample supplies of cannonballs and repair materials.
Notable Sea Monsters
- Hekaru: Relatively solitary creatures found near islands, easy prey for beginner hunters.
- Ocean Stalker: Known for their viciousness, they require a coordinated team to take down but are worth the challenge for the valuable loot they drop.
- Candidum: Often surrounded by a protective fleet of smaller sea creatures, Candidum are prized for their shells and other materials essential for high-tier ship crafting.
Rewards and Risks
Battling these colossi of the deep-seated rewards adventurers with guild funds, valuable materials for ship upgrading, and sometimes, rare trade items fetching high prices in distant lands. However, tread carefully, as the sea is unforgiving, and the loss of a ship not only means a setback in resources but also a frightening swim back to shore.
Ship Crafting and Upgrading
To traverse the perilous waters of BDO and engage in extensive underwater exploration and sea monster hunting, a sturdy, swift vessel is indispensable. Here’s an overview of crafting and upgrading ships:
Crafting Your First Ship
The Epheria Sailboat and Epheria Frigate stand out as the adventurers’ preferred choices for their balance of speed, firepower, and durability. Crafting these ships involves gathering a vast array of materials, some of which are found only in the most remote corners of the map or beneath the waves themselves.
Upgrading Your Vessel
Once you have your ship, further heighten its capabilities by upgrading it to its Caravel or Galleass versions, respectively. Upgrading your ship increases its storage capacity, durability, speed, and firepower, making it a formidable presence against sea monsters and rival adventurers alike.
Nautical Navigation
Mastering the art of nautical navigation is vital for any aspiring mariner. The seas of Black Desert are vast and treacherous, with environmental hazards and aggressive sea monsters lurking beyond every wave crest.
Understanding the Winds and Currents
Pay close attention to the wind direction and strength, as well as ocean currents, as these natural forces can significantly impact your speed and trajectory. Utilize them to your advantage to outmaneuver opponents and monsters alike.
Navigational Skills
Develop your sailor’s navigational skills by undertaking sea voyages and engaging in naval combat. Over time, your proficiency in steering, sailing, and oceanic warfare will grow, making you a seasoned captain feared and respected across the seas.
Underwater Gathering
The ocean bed of Black Desert is rich with resources essential for various crafting disciplines. Underwater gathering is a unique, albeit challenging, way to procure materials like corals, pearls, and rare fish species.
Gear Up
Before you plunge into the depths, ensure you’re equipped with the proper gear. The Silver Embroidered Fisher’s Clothes increase your swimming speed, while the Shark Suit or Lahr Arcien Skin Set significantly refine your underwater breathing time.
Hotspots and Techniques
Underwater resource nodes are scattered across the ocean floor. Look for shimmering oysters for pearls, corals of various types, and clusters of seaweed. Mastery of the gathering skill will increase the yield and rarity of resources you can obtain, making it a lucrative, if perilous, venture.