Ten years ago, Ubisoft released Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, a pirate-themed RPG that rejuvenated the long-running series with its open-world exploration and naval combat. Since its launch in 2013, over 34 million people have played the game, a testament to its enduring popularity. Black Flag follows the story of Edward Kenway, a Welsh pirate-turned-assassin, as he navigates the 17th-century Caribbean seas to uncover an ancient mystery. It introduced exciting sea battles and improved gameplay mechanics, making it a standout entry in the series.
One of the reasons Black Flag continues to be highly regarded is its impressive ship steering mechanics. Players were enthralled by the beauty and serenity of sailing across the sea at midnight, and the vastness of the Caribbean waters added an element of both isolation and intrigue. Ubisoft’s expansive world design was perfectly captured in Black Flag, creating an immersive experience. The game expanded on the previous installment’s ship command feature and reduced the emphasis on modern-day storytelling, allowing players to focus on the joy of combat and exploration.
As fans celebrated the game’s anniversary, requests for a current-gen patch or a remaster were voiced. While rumors of a Black Flag remake have circulated, Ubisoft has yet to officially confirm it. Fans hope that the potential remake does not suffer the same fate as Skull and Bones, another highly anticipated RPG from the company that remains missing in action. Despite its age, Black Flag remains a beloved entry in the Assassin’s Creed series and continues to captivate players with its swashbuckling adventure and immersive world.