Pearl Abyss has released the Agent class for Black Desert, introduced the HYPERBOOST progression system, and detailed a roadmap including new regions, technical upgrades and family-wide features for the MMORPG
Pearl Abyss has launched Agent, the 32nd playable class for Black Desert, as part of a substantial update that also introduces the HYPERBOOST progression programme and a detailed roadmap for future content. The new class and features are available globally from 30 July, following announcements made at the 2026 Heidel Ball event in California.
Agent class and gameplay features
Agent is a male class designed around the concept of a secret operative, positioned as the younger brother of Deadeye, who was introduced in 2024. Agent wields a revolver as his primary weapon, but with a larger calibre than Deadeye, and uses Hexround as a secondary weapon to provide supporting fire and enhance his physical abilities. The class is built for fast-paced, stylish combat, with skills such as Blink for rapid movement and Mozambique Drill, which draws on real-world tactical shooting techniques. These mechanics are intended to offer a distinct playstyle within Black Desert's existing roster.
HYPERBOOST and progression changes
The HYPERBOOST programme is designed to streamline character growth for both new and returning players. By guiding players towards a combined Attack Power and Defence Power score of 730, HYPERBOOST aims to accelerate access to core content. Completing the programme by graduating a Season character, progressing through Olvia Academy, and meeting specific objectives will reward players with materials to craft all three Sovereign Weapons, six PEN (V) Kharazad accessories, four pieces of Slumbering Origin gear, and two Inverted Hearts of Garmoth. This approach is intended to reduce the grind for late-game equipment and make endgame content more accessible.
Roadmap: expansions, systems and technical upgrades
The update also outlines a roadmap for Black Desert's future, including the Edania Part 2 expansion, which will build on the existing Edania region and bring together key figures from the game's lore. Edania Part 2 will introduce two new accessory types: Ekleta, which can be upgraded from Kharazad accessories, and Apeiron, which can be crafted independently and traded via the Central Market. Materials for Apeiron accessories will be available from new monster zones. The expansion will roll out in stages, starting with a Sulphur Golem monster zone, followed by new regions, items and bosses on 13 August, and main quests in September.
Two new family-wide systems are also being added. Instant Character Swap will allow players to switch between family characters without loading screens, either by interacting with deployed characters in the world or through the character selection interface. Family Dispatch will enable alternate characters to be assigned to life-skill activities such as gathering, processing and fishing, generating additional income. Dispatch slots can be unlocked and expanded by meeting certain conditions.
Technical improvements and upcoming features
Black Desert is set to receive graphics technology upgrades in August and September, including support for DirectX 12, AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) 3.1, and NVIDIA DLSS. These updates are intended to improve graphics performance and stability, with FSR 4.1 support planned for the PC version after the initial rollout. Additional features in development include Marni's Combat Analyzer for reviewing combat data, Ferrica as a new mount, new yellow-grade ship equipment, and a reworked level progression system to make character levels a more meaningful goal.
For players interested in other recent multiplayer launches, the release of Hard Edge War Zone brought a different approach to tactical card battles, as covered in our recent report on its Steam debut.
Live-service roadmaps in MMORPGs like Black Desert are intended to provide players with a transparent view of upcoming content, features and technical changes. However, the delivery of roadmap items can vary, with some features arriving in stages or being reworked based on player feedback and development priorities. Players should treat roadmaps as indicative rather than guaranteed, especially when technical upgrades or major expansions are involved. This approach helps set expectations for ongoing support while recognising that plans may shift as the game evolves.
