A re-make of the classic C64 title, Firaxis' new rendition of the Pirates! strategy affair brings a whole new story, new battles, new characters and gorgeous 3D visuals into the fray, marking a mighty step forward for the series.

First and foremost, the 2004 update of Pirates! is a strategy game. After being made captain on a mutinous pirate ship, you begin your quest to seek vengeance on those who divided your family as well as strive to become one of the most successful and revered pira ... more >>

A re-make of the classic C64 title, Firaxis' new rendition of the Pirates! strategy affair brings a whole new story, new battles, new characters and gorgeous 3D visuals into the fray, marking a mighty step forward for the series.

First and foremost, the 2004 update of Pirates! is a strategy game. After being made captain on a mutinous pirate ship, you begin your quest to seek vengeance on those who divided your family as well as strive to become one of the most successful and revered pirates in the world.

From the outset, you'll roam the 17th century Caribbean, both on foot and at sea, interacting with the game's inhabitants, solving numerous puzzles and acquiring clues as to your family's whereabouts. There's plenty of exploring to do, and there's lots of variety, but the real excitement takes place on the high seas. This is because in order to become the respected and feared pirate you set out be, you need to learn new skills and abilities and defeat a great number of lower-ranked vessels and their crews before taking on some of the game's more notorious captains. There are even times when you'll have to combat multiple ships, but victorious encounters, big or small, result in smarter crews, bigger ships and greater riches. It's really an easy system to learn.

As a game, Pirates! differs significantly from its age-old predecessor - the visuals even more so. Now rendered and textured in a gorgeous 3D style, Pirates will be virtually unrecognisable to players of the debut instalment. To the younger gamer, it mightn't look any different to any other PC game, but it remains impressive nonetheless.

Though sometimes complicated and demanding, Pirates is equally rewarding. It's non-linear, it's captivating, and a real piece of eye candy too. Definitely worth a look, whether you're a strategy fan or not. << less