For several years, Ubisoft’s Skull and Bones has been a beacon of curiosity and uncertainty in the gaming community. Despite enduring delays, restarts, and behind-the-scenes drama, the pirate-themed game has managed to stay afloat, teasing fans with glimpses of its potential. As 2024 approaches, we delve into the release date speculation, trailers, gameplay, and more to unravel the mysteries surrounding Skull and Bones.
Release Date and Platforms
Skull and Bones is currently slated to embark on its gaming voyage on February 16, 2024. The game will exclusively sail on current-gen platforms, requiring a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, or a PC to set sail on the high seas.
Trailers: A Journey Through Time
The initial E3 2017 announcement trailer set the stage in 1721 on the Indian Ocean, showcasing pirate battles, shipwrecks, and the ominous presence of a Kraken-type creature beneath the waves. Fast forward to Ubisoft Forward in June 2023, where a dedicated presentation shed light on the plot, featuring a pirate’s journey from shipwreck survivor to legendary captain.
The Game Awards 2023 trailer reaffirmed the release date, adding anticipation to the upcoming launch.
Gameplay: Unveiling the High Seas
Skull and Bones draws inspiration from Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag’s naval combat, as seen in the E3 2018 gameplay overview. Players will captain their ships, engaging in strategic naval combat with indicators displaying cannon targets and opposing ship levels. The game promises a dynamic world with natural dangers, crafting, and on-foot exploration. A leaked gameplay footage in 2021 provided a six-minute glimpse into the infamy system, ship upgrades, and survival elements.
Ubisoft Forward 2022 showcased the diverse options for outfitting ships, including cannons and ballistas, giving players a preview of the tools at their disposal.
The closed beta in August 2023 allowed selected players to explore the Red Isle pirate den and the Coast of Africa, offering a taste of exploration, combat, and various contracts.
Multiplayer: A Shared Voyage
Skull and Bones’ multiplayer aspect remains partially uncharted. Players can encounter each other in the open world, forming alliances or engaging in spontaneous combat. Leaks suggest an always-online approach, with shared hub areas for teaming up before embarking on missions. PvP is segregated to dedicated servers to maintain a balance between cooperation and competition.
Pre-order: Charting Your Course
Despite the absence of a confirmed release date, pre-orders are live. The Standard Edition offers the base game for $70, while the Premium Edition at $100 includes additional content like The Ballad of Bloody Bones Collection, two extra missions, and the official digital artbook and soundtrack.
As the horizon of 2024 approaches, Skull and Bones tantalizes gamers with the promise of a unique pirate experience, leaving enthusiasts eager to set sail into uncharted waters.
