I’m as surprised as you are reading this news, but yes, I can confirm that Ubisoft revealed today that Skull and Bones is actually going to launch this decade, and not only that, but even this year! This open world pirate action title started development almost a decade ago, and it’s probably been through some stormy waters, but things seem to have calmed down enough that it’ll finally make port on November 8th.
What platforms is it releasing on, I hear you ask? Well, the usual these days for any big budget Ubisoft title; PC (Ubisoft Connect and Uplay, sadly no Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Amazon Luna and Google Stadia. As a long-time Age of Sail enthusiast, I’m still cautiously optimistic about this one, but we’ll see as we get closer to release. For now, I’ll leave you to this new gameplay trailer, direct from the horse’s mouth.
Developed by Ubisoft Singapore in collaboration with other Ubisoft studios, Skull and Bones will invite players to chart their own destiny and rise from an outcast to becoming a pirate kingpin. To do so, they will need to build their Infamy through thrilling naval combat and rewarding expeditions in a treacherous world.
Inspired by the legendary tales around piracy, players will get to experience the authentic pirate life. From accepting contracts, gathering resources, to navigating important trade routes and attacking wealthy merchant ships, each decision will influence their journey, with varying levels of risk and reward. As they grow their Infamy, players will be able to fully craft and customize their naval fleet and unlock a variety of new items throughout the game.
The game is inspired by one of the deadliest periods in history – the end of the 17th century. Considered to be the second Golden Age of Piracy, it sets the stage for a chaotic and ruthless era of pirates, warring factions, powerful organizations, and empires all vying for power in the untamed paradise of the Indian Ocean.
Each journey in the Skull and Bones universe will be unique. Players can expand their empire by joining forces with up to two other friends or players they encounter out at sea. For additional challenge, they can enable PVP and test their iron against aspiring kingpins, powerful organizations, local factions, or even rival pirates.
Building on an ambitious, multi-year post-launch plan, the game will be regularly updated with new content, activities, stories, and challenges that will be free for all players.