Pirate games are surprisingly rare considering the fact that most of us wanted to be a pirate at some point in our childhood. I must have watched Pirates of the Caribbean more than a 100 times already. Unfortunately, pirate games have never been as common as RPGs, shooters, or open-world games but there are some seriously good ones out there.
I’ve put together the best pirate games you can play right now. From sandbox open-world adventures where you can rule the seas to action-packed pirate battles, and few older gems that are absolute must-play.
Windrose
Windrose is a new game that was released on 14th April, 2026 and so it happens that it’s my favorite pirate game ever. I’ve gotten everything I wanted and more. It’s open-world PVE sandbox that mixes sailing and pirate combat with survival, crafting, exploration and base building.
I’ve actually reviewed Windrose after spending well over 100+ hours in it and if you’re looking something that goes beyond just simply sailing and shooting cannons, this is the game I would look at first. I can’t recommend it enough. And by the way, game is still in early access which means it’s going to get bigger and better, no doubt about it.
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced
If you’re looking for a pirate game that offers the perfect mix of epic action and stealthy intrigue, Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced is a must-play. Set in the Golden Age of Piracy, this game lets you slip into the boots of Edward Kenway, a pirate turned assassin who’s got one goal: to live the high life and just maybe save the world.
It’s got an open-world Caribbean setting that’s absolutely stunning. You’ll sail across the beautiful blue waters of the West Indies, raid ships, uncover treasure, and explore lush islands. You’ll also get to jump into the Assassin’s Creed series’ signature parkour-style gameplay, sneaking through cities, climbing towers, and taking down enemies in stealthy, stylish ways.
This is an enhanced version of the original game called Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, it’s one of the best, if not the best Assassin’s Creed games in my opinion. This version offers better graphics, better combat and improved stealth. It’s definitely worth checking out.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is probably the weirdest pirate game on this list that I’ve played. You get to play as a Goro Majima, a famous ex-yakuza who suddenly finds himself shipwrecked on a remote island in the Pacific.
What I really enjoyed is that while it’s pirate themed game, it’s not so serious about it. The game is still very much Like a Dragon at heart. You get ridiculous side activities, over the top characters, and moments that make you wonder, who even comes up with this sort of stuff.
For me, it’s what makes it such an easy recommendation. You’re not going to get most realistic sailing or deep pirate simulation but you’ll get one of the most entertaining of pirates and Yakuza nonsense I’ve ever played.
Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire
Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire is an epic, isometric RPG where you’ll build your pirate crew, set sail across a stunning archipelago, and engage in deep, tactical battles.
You’ll play as the Watcher, a hero who’s got some serious soul-searching to do, but instead of sitting by a fire contemplating your existence, you’ll be commanding a ship and battling rivals on the open sea. The tactical combat in Deadfire is rewarding, demanding you plan your moves carefully while managing your crew and resources.
And let’s talk about the ship, customizing it is half the fun! You’ll recruit new crew members, upgrade your ship’s weapons, and navigate dangerous waters while keeping an eye on your limited supplies.
Like RPGs? Check out the best RPGs you can play right now.
Sid Meier’s Pirates!
Sid Meier’s Pirates! was originally released in 2004, but it’s still a go-to for anyone craving a fun, no-fuss pirate experience. It’s got everything you want: ship battles, treasure hunting, and plenty of pirate shenanigans.
You’ll play as a young pirate captain looking to make a name for themselves in the Caribbean. What makes this game stand out is its variety of gameplay. You can engage in real-time ship combat, board enemy vessels, duel in sword fights, trade goods, and even dance your way into the good graces of noble families.
Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves is set in a shared world where you’re part of a crew, setting sail, hunting treasure, and getting into ridiculous hijinks with other players. It’s an online multiplayer experience that mixes open-world adventure with pure pirate madness.
What sets Sea of Thieves apart is how much freedom you have. You can crew a ship with your mates, battle skeletons, plunder rival crews, and explore islands filled with secrets. You might spend your day searching for hidden treasure, then suddenly be ambushed by another ship looking to steal your loot. It’s unpredictable, and that’s half the fun.
It will bring you closer to your friends or you’ll end up not having any. There’s nothing in between.
Want more multiplayer games? Check these out.
Return to Monkey Island
Return To monkey Island isn’t your typical pirate game. Instead of sailing around and shooting cannons, you’ll be solving puzzles, talking to strange characters and getting yourself into all sorts of situations as Guybrush Threepwood.
I’ve really enjoyed how relaxing and funny game felt. It was a refreshing experience that I can proudly recommend to anyone. Each conversation had either some sort of joke or a weird detail, that made me want to see what happens next. Which was a main reason as why I finished whole game in just one day.
Sea Dogs
Sea Dogs was released back in 2000, and it’s an underrated classic perfect for those who love the idea of sailing the Caribbean in the 17th century.
In Sea Dogs, you take on the role of a pirate (or privateer, depending on how you feel about the law) in the Caribbean during the Age of Sail. The game’s open world lets you explore a vast map, complete quests, trade goods, plunder enemy ships, and become the most feared pirate the seas have ever known. It’s a little dated, but if you’re looking for a pirate game with some serious depth, Sea Dogs will have you hooked.
Salt 2: Shores of Gold
In Salt, you start on a tiny raft, with nothing but a few basic tools, and set out to explore a massive open world made up of scattered islands. You’ll gather resources, craft weapons, and build your ship.
Salt 2: Shores of Gold takes everything the first game did and cranks it up a notch. Now, you’ve got improved mechanics, better graphics, and a deeper focus on combat, crafting, and multiplayer. You can join forces with other players to form pirate crews, raid islands, and share loot (or betray each other, if that’s more your style).
