The long-delayed release window for Skull & Bones, suggesting that the game will finally set sail between October 2022 and March 2023, and now an updated reveal may be in the works.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag was highly acclaimed for its open-world pirate gameplay, and Skull & Bones is meant to build upon its success. The title has suffered through a series of delays since its reveal back at E3 2017, with the project apparently being redirected and restarted multiple times. Recently it was revealed that a brand-new vision for Skull & Bones emerged, leading to further delays while developers strive to achieve this new concept. Earlier versions of the game were apparently meant to focus entirely on multiplayer naval combat, though land exploration and a single-player story have reportedly been added since. A recent Skull & Bones playtest now points to no land or ship PvP being included in the game at all, which marks a significant departure from the title's original design.
A rumor reported by Try Hard Guides suggests that Ubisoft will reveal Skull & Bones again during the week of July 4. This announcement event is expected to reveal a firm release date for the open-world pirate simulator, while also showcasing some gameplay and discussing additional details. This re-reveal of Skull & Bones will cap off its original reveal back in 2018, numerous subsequent delays and a playtest that reportedly began earlier this year. While the reveal is merely a rumor for now, it would be a great opportunity for Ubisoft to set the record straight on this long-delayed title.
While Ubisoft hasn't show new gameplay for some time, leaked Skull & Bones gameplay footage recently revealed new information about the title's tutorial test build. This footage apparently outlines the title's moment-to-moment gameplay and core content loop, which seems to focus mostly around naval combat and piracy. Assuming the role of a lowly sailor, players will explore the Indian Ocean and gather resources to improve their ship and crew. A location called Red Isle will serve as Skull & Bones' hub, with players traveling there to stock up on supplies and interact with other online buccaneers.
Skull & Bones is an incredibly elusive title, but rumors suggest that Ubisoft will soon show off the newest iteration of the pirate-based project. With so many delays and shifts in development, it is currently unclear what the game will look like when it does finally start sailing. Still, those interested in another high-seas experience from Ubisoft should look forward to another Skull & Bones reveal.
Source: Try Hard Guides
