Following multiple leaks, Ubisoft has confirmed an October 29 release date for Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag across PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii U, with PlayStation 4, PC, and “other next generation console” versions also planned.
The sequel, in development since 2011 and set at the start of the 18th century, follows new assassin Edward Kenway, a young British man with a thirst for danger and adventure, who falls from privateering for the Royal Navy into piracy as the war between the major Empires comes to an end. Edward is described as “fierce pirate” and “seasoned fighter,” and soon becomes caught in the battle between the Assassins and Templars. Infamous pirates, such as Blackbeard and Charles Vane, will make an appearance as players journey throughout the West Indies during the period later known as the “Golden Age of Pirates.”
The game will offer over 50 navigable locations like Cuba, Bahamas, Nassau, and South Florida, and areas including jungles, temples, Mayan ruins, and underwater ship wrecks. Gameplay is based on the series’ “proven tenets.” Combat combines the weaponry of the Assassin’s Order with the era’s armaments, and rewards both “daring” and stealth. A multiplayer mode will also be available.
The PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 versions of Assassin’s Creed IV will feature 60 minutes of additional gameplay content, which can be downloaded via PlayStation Network after launch. Consumers who pre-order the game at GameStop will receive a limited edition collectible poster featuring artwork created by Todd McFarlane.
Several publications have gone live with in-depth previews of the game. Choose your poison: CVG, Destructoid, Edge, EGM Now, Eurogamer, GameSpot, IGN, Gamereactor, Joystiq, Kotaku, OXM, Polygon, Strategy Informer, VG247, or VideoGamer.
Watch the debut trailers below. View the first screenshots at the gallery.
