Black Desert Mobile saw its global release yesterday, December 11th, and judging by the bustling servers it was met with an eager reception. The first thing players are asked to do is choose a Family Name. However just a few screens later during character creation, players may also choose a Character Name, so what's the difference?

Family Vs. Character Names

When making an account, players must choose a Family Name before even reaching the character selection process. A brief prompt explains the name must be between two to twelve characters long and "will be displayed to other Adventurers." This might leave some players confused about the purpose of the title, as 'family' suggests it would serve as a surname while the explanation insinuates it could be the character's title.

It so happens that both interpretations are correct. The Family Name applies to all characters created by the player on every server within one region and will appear over the characters throughout their adventures. As most players will only be playing in a single region (America, Europe, or Asia), the Family Name represents the player rather than the individual character. The Family Name also serves to draw a relation between each of the player's characters and in that way acts as a surname.

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Character names must also be between 2-12 letters long and serve as each character's personal identity, pertaining solely to them. Despite this, the Character Name does not appear all that often. It is mainly used on the character selection and My Info screens within the game.

Changing Names

In order to change either name, a Change Name Coupon must be bought at the in-game Pearl Shop under Misc. The Family and Character Name Change Coupons are each sold separately. Once purchased, players may access the Family or Character Name Change Coupon within their Pearl Inventory. After the coupon has been used the change will be implemented with the game's next patch update- a near-constant occurrence. Previous names may be reused, but only after thirty days since the use of the Name Change Coupon.

Via blackdesertm.com

It may seem odd for an MMORPG to rarely make use of personalized character names, devaluing individual identities. However, incorporating the dynamic of having The Black Spirit companion and other NPCs address the player by their Family Name is a unique way to personalize gameplay. Both names serve a purpose, however, it is pertinent the player is satisfied with their chosen family name as it will follow them throughout the entire journey.

Source: Black Desert Mobile

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