Summary

  • Skull and Bones has reached Steam shortly following the six-month anniversary of its original release.
  • All editions of the game can be picked up via Steam at a 60% discount until September 5.
  • Skill and Bones' Steam release coincides with the start of Season 3: Into the Dragon's Wake, which adds a variety of content to the live-service pirate game.

Skull and Bones is now available on Steam. While its debut on Valve's storefront has been fairly delayed, the game at least landed on Steam with a hefty launch discount.

Skull and Bones was originally released on the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on February 16. But its PC version was initially only available via the Epic Games Store and Ubisoft's own storefront.

Skull and Bone Docks at Steam With 60% Launch Discount

More than half a year later, the pirate action-adventure has finally debuted on Steam, which it reached on Thursday, August 22. While Steam users had to wait longer to play it, Ubisoft is rewarding them for their patience with a fairly substantial 60% launch discount, which brings the game's price down to $24. The offer also extends to the Skull and Bones Deluxe and Premium Editions, which can currently be picked up for $30 and $36, respectively. This introductory discount will be available for two weeks, until September 5.

Despite its generous launch discount, the game had a fairly modest Steam release, debuting on the 37th spot of the storefront's Top Sellers list. Its early user reviews are 57% positive, which puts them in the "Mixed" category. This is consistent with Skull and Bones' critical reception, which was fairly underwhelming at launch. As of August 2024, the game still has a "Weak" rating on OpenCritic, based on its aggregate score of 60 and an 11% reviewer recommendation rate.

Skull and Bones Steam Trial Has Been Delayed

Despite the not-too-impressive reviews, Skull and Bones reportedly managed to attract roughly 850,000 players shortly following its February 2024 launch. However, that figure is believed to have been inflated by the eight-hour free trial that Ubisoft has been offering from day one. Although the demo version of the game is also planned to reach Valve's storefront, Ubisoft delayed its launch on August 21, without elaborating on the reasons for that decision or committing to a new release date.

Skull and Bones Steam Release Coincides With Season 3 Start

Skull and Bones Season 3 Content
An infographic detailing the contents of Skull and Bones Season 3: Into the Dragon’s Wake.

Whether the Steam debut of Skull and Bones manages to have a substantial effect on its player base remains to be seen. Looking at the context of this launch, Ubisoft timed it to coincide with the start of Season 3. Called Into the Dragon's Wake, the new season introduces a fresh storyline revolving around two warring pirate lords, Li Tian Ning and Commander Zhang. A new ship nicknamed Battle Junk is part of the package as well, and can be unlocked by progressing the Smuggler Pass. Into the Dragon's Wake also adds several more weapons and world events to Skull and Bones, among other novelties.

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5 /10

Skull and Bones
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Action
Adventure
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Systems
PC-1 PlayStation-1 Xbox-1
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Top Critic Avg: 60 /100 Critics Rec: 10%
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Released
February 16, 2024
ESRB
M for Mature: Blood, Strong Language, Use of Drugs, Violence
Developer(s)
Ubisoft Singapore
Publisher(s)
Ubisoft
Engine
AnvilNext
Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer
Cross-Platform Play
PC, PS5 & Xbox Series X|S
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WHERE TO PLAY

SUBSCRIPTION
DIGITAL
PHYSICAL
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Set sail into the vibrant open world of Skull and Bones, a naval online action RPG where you rise to become the most fearsome pirate kingpin.

ENGAGE IN SPECTACULAR NAVAL COMBAT

Prepare for devastating battles by crafting a dozen different ships and equip your fleet with powerful loadouts. Unlock stronger weapons as you progress and customize your ships to reflect your unique pirate playstyle.

SAIL INTO A DANGEROUS HELL IN PARADISE

Voyage into the Indian Ocean and explore a vast open world teeming with cutthroat pirates, deadly sea monsters, supernatural threats, devastating storms, and more.

TEAM UP WITH FELLOW PIRATES

Sail the lawless seas solo or team up with two friends or other players to partake in shareable contracts and rewards.

ENJOY EVER-EVOLVING CONTENT

Each season, face a brand-new legendary sea lord and discover fresh content, limitless endgame opportunities, and new exciting features designed to enhance your pirate experience.

Genre(s)
Action, Adventure