Black Desert Online class tier list for PvE (2025)

Not many MMORPGs feature a comprehensive and massive class system in their gameplay. However, Black Desert Online differs from this approach by employing a staggering 29-class system which can be further subdivided into Succession and Awakening types. Despite possessing unique powers and abilities, not all classes are at par. There's a stark power difference between some of the classes in the game.

In this article, we will rank all 29 classes available in the game. Although each class may be stronger or weaker in specific modes, the list takes into consideration both their PvP and PvE prowess. Some classes are also discussed in detail.

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All 29 Black Desert Online classes arranged into tiers

This tier list is divided into four ranks: SS, S, A, B, and C. The addition of the D tier was not necessary because no class is particularly useless in the current state of the game.

This Black Desert Online tier list is based on how well the classes fare (awakening or succession variant where applicable) in the endgame PvE experience. Note that the tiers reflect their damage potential, survivability, and versatility in endgame spots. In the early game, classes may perform well above or below their tier on this list.

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SS-Tier

Those belonging to the SS-Tier are the most powerful in Black Desert Online. They offer massive damage output, great survivability mechanics, and impressive combat versatility. They are strong both in PvE and PvP. These are the classes you would choose if you want to excel in BDO:

• Sorceress Awakening
• Ninja Succession
• Nova Awakening
• Witch Succession
• Lahn Succession
• Dark Knight Awakening
• Dosa Awakening
• Warrior Succession
• Witch Awakening

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S-Tier

S-tier classes are strong enough to dominate most in-game scenarios. Similar to the SS-tier classes, they are capable of dealing high damage output, although it may take mastery and practice. They are also highly versatile and are strong in PvP and PvE.

• Mystic Awakening
• Berserker Awakening
• Tamer Awakening
• Musa Succession
• Maehwa Awakening
• Ninja Awakening
• Dosa Succession
• Dark Knight Succession
• Striker Awakening
• Striker Succession
• Guardian Succession
• Archer
• Wizard Succession
• Hashashin Succession
• Scholar
• Sage Succession
• Woosa Succession
• Sorceress Succession

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A-Tier

Classes in this tier are not the strongest in the current meta, but they are still viable options in the game. They excel in specific scenarios and are not the most well-rounded overall. However, mastery of these classes can set you up for great success.

• Shai
• Warrior Awakening
• Sorceress Succession
• Berserker Succession
• Musa Awakening
• Kunoichi Awakening
• Lahn Awakening
• Hashashin Awakening
• Ranger Awakening
• Corsair Awakening
• Corsair Succession
• Maehwa Awakening
• Drakania Succession
• Maegu Succession
• Tamer Succession
• Guardian Awakening

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B-Tier

Although they might not be as powerful or adaptable as the classes in higher tiers, these BDO classes are still good choices. However, they likely have flaws or restrictions that force you to play more strategically. These classes fall into this tier:

• Kunoichi Awakening
• Maegu Awakening
• Deadeye
• Valkyrie Awakening
• Mystic Succession
• Valkyrie Succession

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C-Tier

It may take a lot more time and effort to get similar outcomes from these classes than those in higher tiers. They might have distinctive playstyles or skills that draw in particular players, but these aren't always as useful or potent.

• Ranger Succession
• Drakania Awakening
• Nova Succession

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These are the current classes in Black Desert Online. If you are looking to play this game, now is the right time to hop on the hype with the release of Land of the Morning Light expansion.