Scallywags! Ubisoft’s pirate action-adventure Skull and Bones launched with big expectations after no less than 4 delays. The exact reason was never disclosed by developers, however, we can suppose that besides the technical challenges, the game’s scope and ambition have something to do with it. Also, in 2023, Ubisoft underwent staff reduction, and at least the latest delay may have been influenced by this action. Whatever the cause was, it is less important today because Skull and Bones finally arrived. It is special. Below are my initial thoughts after a few hours of playing it. Before hoisting the Jolly Roger and polishing off your cutlasses to join this pirate crew, you can read this article to determine whether Skull and Bones is worth it.
Action-Adventure Ahoy!
Skull and Bones is an action-adventure RPG set sail on an open ocean world pinpointed in the Indian Ocean. As a pirate game, naval warfare is a must. This part alone is interesting enough to warrant buying Skull and Bones. But it does not end here. What strikes me most is the role-playing elements that transform the game into something much more than a naval simulation. True, the main gameplay entails intense ship-to-ship combat, and it couldn’t be different given the theme but I will argue the obvious: the RPG part makes the game special with its character progression, loot, branching storylines, character advancement, and more. You start as an unwitting deckhand and work your way up to an experienced commander of the seas having a fleet at your orders.
Action-Adventure RPG
The role-playing elements introduced are probably responsible for changing the initial vision and this way it becomes more ambitious than initially thought. From following the main storyline and engaging in side missions to trading and plundering server events, players won’t run out of things to do in Skull and Bones, a game that is worth playing in single-player/campaign mode or multiplayer. So no matter your preference, you can safely buy Skull and Bones and enjoy it for a lot of time thanks to its high replayability and diversity. As the game evolves, I look forward to witnessing its progression.
Unfurling the Sails
Skull and Bones is well-executed by Ubisoft and it is not a surprise that it boasts beautiful visuals when the gameplay and role-playing elements are so much evolved. In addition, intuitive ship controls make everything better, as ship battles are a big part of the game, and pave the way for an engaging adventure-seeker experience on the high seas. Skull and Bones are packed with things to discover that make the exploration worthwhile and fun. You’ll find things that will help you rank up and provide various upgrades all around. There’s plenty to keep fans of exploration entertained and piraters engaged: Skull and Bones delivers in all aspects.
Though already providing hours of entertainment, which is always a good feature at the start, Skull and Bones shows promise for further expansion in customization options, content addition, ship battles, and missions, so you will be hooked for good (and it is not a bad thing). This is in line with the trend of offering video games as a service. Players can explore a vast open sea with different ship types and weaponry tailored for different playstyles as you expect from a role-playing game. At the same time, social interaction takes place through its main hub with opportunities to meet other NPCs or players at various outposts along the journey. Already its current offerings make this worthwhile investment but the future looks good with more unique characters and plenty of content awaiting discovery thanks to Ubisoft’s long-term support.
Final Thoughts: Should You Set Sail?
Skull and Bones went through a lengthy development process that paid off. The long-term naval combat appeal specific to its pirate theme works in concert with the narrative and role-playing elements to push the game to another level. In addition, you won’t be disappointed by visuals, sounds, and other elements that were not discussed in this article. It is not the premier option if you want to buy cheap PS5 games, but price aside, this game is solid. The immersive storyline further adds to the game’s attraction but the compelling gameplay (including naval battles) and role-playing elements are the best part. Overall, Skull and Bones is an almost perfect action-adventure role-playing video game.
