In case you weren't aware, Pearl Abyss is bringing its popular massively multiplayer RPG, Black Desert, to PlayStation 4 next month. As you'd expect, it's an online fantasy adventure in which you can create your own character and engage in all manner of activities, such as combat, hunting, crafting, and all that usual good stuff. It's due for release on 22nd August. However, if you're unsure about whether it's for you, the studio has just announced a beta test prior to launch.

The free Black Desert beta, which you can see in action above in the briefest game trailer known to man, allows players to explore the region of Calpheon with your freshly created character. You can choose one of six classes, and take them all the way up to level 50. You don't need PlayStation Plus to take part in the beta, but you will when the full game arrives.

The beta takes place between the 9th and 13th August, and all participating players will get a Sky Hawk pet when the game launches, which is nice. Here's a link to the sign-up page, if you're interested.

Will you be taking Black Desert for a whirl ahead of launch next month? Build a sand castle in the comments below.