The Pirate Games You Should Try If You Like Sea Of Thieves

So, you've plundered the seas, battled krakens, and amassed a treasure hoard that would make Blackbeard jealous in Sea of Thieves. But the call of the open water still echoes in your heart. You crave more swashbuckling adventure, more daring raids, and more opportunities to shout "Ahoy!" at unsuspecting strangers. Fear not, fellow pirate! The gaming seas are vast and teeming with experiences similar to, and different from, Rare's beloved pirate simulator.

This isn't just a list of games with pirates; it's a curated selection of titles that capture the spirit of Sea of Thieves. We're talking about shared adventure, emergent gameplay, a healthy dose of chaos, and the thrill of forging your own legend on the high seas. If you're looking for something to scratch that pirate itch while offering a unique spin, read on!

Here are a few pirate games you should try if you love Sea of Thieves:

1. Blackwake: Tactical Naval Combat

Blackwake offers a drastically different, yet equally compelling, take on naval combat. Forget the arcade-style ship handling of Sea of Thieves; Blackwake is all about realism and teamwork. You'll need to coordinate with your crew to manage sails, load cannons, repair damage, and board enemy vessels.

  • Why you'll like it: The emphasis on teamwork and communication is paramount. Just like in Sea of Thieves, a disorganized crew is a doomed crew. The satisfaction of landing a perfectly aimed broadside after careful coordination is immensely rewarding.
  • Key Differences: Blackwake is far more focused on tactical naval combat and historical accuracy. It lacks the open-world exploration and fantastical elements of Sea of Thieves. Expect a steeper learning curve and a more hardcore experience.
  • Perfect for: Players who enjoy the tactical aspects of ship combat and appreciate historical accuracy.

2. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag: The Pirate Assassin

While the Assassin's Creed franchise might not immediately spring to mind when you think of pirate games, Black Flag is a notable exception. You play as Edward Kenway, a pirate-turned-assassin in the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy.

  • Why you'll like it: Black Flag seamlessly blends open-world exploration, naval combat, and stealthy assassinations. You can sail the seas, plunder ships, upgrade your vessel (the Jackdaw), and explore historical locations like Havana and Nassau. The story is engaging, and the pirate atmosphere is thick.
  • Key Differences: Black Flag is a single-player experience with a strong narrative focus. Unlike Sea of Thieves, it's not about shared adventures with friends. The combat is also more grounded and less reliant on emergent gameplay.
  • Perfect for: Players who enjoy single-player open-world games with a strong narrative and a compelling pirate setting.

3. Atlas: The MMO Pirate Sandbox

Atlas is an ambitious MMO that throws you into a vast, persistent world filled with pirates, mythical creatures, and endless possibilities. Build ships, claim territories, and wage war against rival factions.

  • Why you'll like it: The sheer scale of Atlas is impressive. You can build entire empires, tame wild animals, and explore a diverse range of environments. The crafting system is deep, and the player-driven economy creates a dynamic and unpredictable world.
  • Key Differences: Atlas is a much more complex and demanding game than Sea of Thieves. It requires a significant time investment and a willingness to engage with its intricate systems. The performance can also be inconsistent.
  • Perfect for: Players who enjoy large-scale MMOs with a strong emphasis on crafting, building, and player-driven politics. Be warned, it's not for the faint of heart!

4. Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire: Isometric Pirate RPG

For a different perspective on the pirate life, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire presents a compelling isometric RPG experience. You captain your own ship, explore the Deadfire Archipelago, and recruit a diverse crew.

  • Why you'll like it: The story is rich and engaging, with complex characters and meaningful choices. The naval combat is surprisingly strategic, and the exploration is rewarding. The Deadfire Archipelago is a vibrant and fascinating setting.
  • Key Differences: Deadfire is a single-player RPG with a strong focus on narrative and character development. It lacks the open-ended, emergent gameplay of Sea of Thieves. The combat is also turn-based and tactical.
  • Perfect for: Players who enjoy story-driven RPGs with a strong pirate theme and strategic combat.

5. Naval Action: Simulation of 18th Century Sailing Warfare

Naval Action is a hardcore naval combat simulator that aims for historical accuracy above all else. Master the art of sailing, gunnery, and ship handling in realistic 18th-century naval battles.

  • Why you'll like it: The realism is unparalleled. Every aspect of ship handling, from sail trim to wind direction, is meticulously simulated. The satisfaction of outmaneuvering and outgunning your opponents is immense.
  • Key Differences: Naval Action is a highly demanding game with a steep learning curve. It's not for casual players. The focus is entirely on naval combat, with little to no exploration or open-world elements.
  • Perfect for: Players who are passionate about naval history and enjoy realistic simulations.

Beyond the List: Honorable Mentions

This list isn't exhaustive, of course. Here are a few other pirate-themed games that might pique your interest:

  • Tropico Series: While not strictly pirate games, the Tropico series allows you to play as a Caribbean dictator, complete with pirate raids and smuggling operations.
  • Sid Meier's Pirates!: A classic pirate adventure game with a blend of exploration, combat, and role-playing.
  • Pixel Privateers: A quirky and humorous pirate RPG with a pixel art style.

Finding Your Pirate Fix

Ultimately, the best pirate game for you depends on your preferences. Do you crave tactical naval combat? A compelling single-player story? A vast, open-world MMO? Hopefully, this list has given you a few ideas to explore. Each of these games offers a unique take on the pirate experience, capturing different aspects of what makes Sea of Thieves so appealing.

So hoist the sails, gather your crew (or set sail solo), and prepare for a new adventure on the gaming seas. The treasures and challenges await! Just remember to keep a weather eye on the horizon and a cutlass close at hand. Happy pirating!