Ahoy, me hearties! The seas of gaming are about to witness a storm with Ubisoft’s highly anticipated release, Skull & Bones, on the horizon. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting its arrival or harbouring doubts about its potential, one thing is certain – the allure of pirate adventures has left us yearning for the open sea. It’s been a while since we sailed through digital waters in pursuit of buried treasures and high-seas escapades.

Fear not, fellow buccaneers, for this listicle aims to quench your thirst for piracy-themed gaming in the meantime. As we batten down the hatches and prepare for the forthcoming release, let’s set sail on a nostalgic journey through some classic and underrated pirate games that will shiver your timbers and keep you entertained until Skull & Bones drops anchor.

And here’s a timely tidbit to sweeten the deal: Steam is currently hosting its Ninjas vs. Pirates sale, where many of the games listed are sailing with discounted prices. So, strap on your tricorn hats, load the cannons, and let’s explore the virtual seas in search of gaming treasures that will prepare you for the adventure that awaits!

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag

Embark on an epic seafaring journey with Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, a game that seamlessly blends the stealthy intrigue of the Assassin’s Creed series with the thrilling life of a pirate. Set during the Golden Age of Piracy, Black Flag thrusts you into the boots of Edward Kenway, a charismatic and cunning privateer turned pirate captain. What makes this entry a must-play before Skull & Bones is its ability to deliver an authentic pirate experience without sacrificing the rich narrative and gameplay elements characteristic of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.

As you plunder and navigate the Caribbean seas, the game offers a vast open world to explore, filled with bustling ports, mysterious islands, and, of course, treacherous naval battles. The seamless transition between on-foot stealth missions and exhilarating naval warfare sets Black Flag apart, making it a perfect choice for those yearning for an immersive pirate experience.

So, don your assassin robes and unfurl the Jolly Roger as you engage in high-stakes naval warfare, explore uncharted territories, and uncover the secrets of a hidden civilization. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is a timeless adventure that not only quenches your thirst for piracy but also provides a glimpse into the complex world of assassins. As you set sail in Edward Kenway’s footsteps, you’ll find that the line between assassin and pirate becomes as blurred as the horizon at sea. Aye, me hearties, the seas are calling, and Black Flag beckons you to join its crew on a voyage through history and intrigue.

Sea of Thieves

Sea of Thieves is a game that breathes life into the very essence of piracy. This multiplayer masterpiece from Rare offers a sandbox of nautical chaos, where you and your crew set sail on a beautifully rendered ocean. What makes Sea of Thieves a must-play before the release of Skull & Bones is its unique blend of cooperative gameplay and emergent storytelling.

In this open-world adventure, you’re not just navigating the seas; you’re creating your own pirate legend. From engaging in ship-to-ship battles with rival crews to exploring sunken wrecks for loot, every session unfolds as a unique tale. The dynamic weather and the ever-present threat of encountering the elusive Kraken or a ghostly skeleton ship add an element of surprise to your maritime exploits.

So, as you await the release of Ubisoft’s title, Sea of Thieves provides an immersive and entertaining experience, reminding you of the unpredictable nature of the high seas – a perfect warm-up before you dive into the uncharted waters of Skull & Bones.

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew

This hidden gem sets itself apart by weaving a captivating narrative that plunges players into a world where curses, treachery, and supernatural elements rule the high seas. As you navigate through this sinister pirate saga, the game’s intricate storyline unveils a tangled web of mysteries that keeps you on the edge of your ship’s seat.

What makes Shadow Gambit an ideal addition to your pre-Skull & Bones gaming spree is its combination of strategic gameplay and a gripping narrative. As captain of your cursed crew, you must make crucial decisions that impact the unfolding storyline and the fate of your spectral shipmates. Engage in intense ship battles, decipher cryptic clues, and break the curse that haunts your crew – all while exploring a visually stunning, atmospheric world.

To sweeten the pot, as of writing this, Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is currently available at a tempting 20% off on Steam. Don’t miss this chance to delve into a dark pirate tale that will not only entertain but also test your wits. Sail into the shadows and let the curse unfold as you navigate the haunting waters of Shadow Gambit. Aye, captain, the deal is as enticing as a chest of long-lost doubloons!

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire

For those seeking a different flavour of pirate adventure, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire offers a rich and immersive role-playing experience on the high seas. Set in a world filled with political intrigue, mythical creatures, and a vast archipelago waiting to be explored, this game stands as a testament to the depth and complexity of pirate-themed RPGs.

In Pillars of Eternity II, you’ll captain your own ship, assemble a diverse crew, and navigate the turbulent waters of the Deadfire Archipelago. This game takes the pirate genre to new heights, combining strategic naval battles with intricate storytelling and character development. The choices you make have far-reaching consequences, shaping not only your character’s destiny but also the fate of the entire region.

As an added boon for aspiring virtual swashbucklers, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is currently hoisting its sails with a staggering 75% discount on Steam as of writing this. This is an opportunity not to be missed – seize the chance to embark on an epic RPG adventure that combines the allure of piracy with the depth of a narrative-driven role-playing game. So, set a course for Deadfire, where the seas are teeming with mysteries and your destiny awaits. Aye, me hearties, it’s a steal worthy of any pirate’s treasure horde!

One Piece World Seeker

And to round out the list, we cannot forget about one of the most beloved pirate franchises to date, One Piece. Join Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates on a grand open-world adventure in One Piece World Seeker. As a true celebration of the beloved anime and manga series, this game invites you to explore a vast and immersive open world inspired by the iconic One Piece universe. What sets World Seeker apart is its dynamic blend of high-octane action, exploration, and a gripping narrative that stays true to the spirit of Eiichiro Oda’s masterpiece.

Before Skull & Bones takes you into the high seas, One Piece World Seeker allows you to set sail on the seas of the Grand Line, navigating islands, battling formidable foes, and unravelling the mysteries of a new world. The game seamlessly combines Luffy’s signature Gum-Gum abilities with open-world exploration, creating an experience that captures the essence of the beloved anime.

And here’s a treasure trove of good news for you: As of writing this, One Piece World Seeker is available at an incredible 90% off on Steam. Dive into the world of pirates, power, and friendship without breaking the bank. It’s an opportunity to experience the One Piece universe like never before and prepare yourself for the upcoming maritime adventures in Skull & Bones. Don’t miss out on this epic journey at a price that’s as irresistible as a chest full of Pirate King’s loot!