Despite a less than swashbuckling launch, Ubisoft is allowing all players to set sail and experience its pirate adventure Skull and Bones for an entire week at no cost.
From May 30th through June 6th, the full game will be free to download and play across all platforms as part of a special free week promotion. This gives prospective captains the opportunity to plunder the entire open-world nautical experience before deciding if they want to permanently purchase the premium title.
“During this free week, you are free to play any content you want, whether it is to progress through the main storyline or tackle challenging content with your friends,” Ubisoft announced of the upcoming trial period. Any progress made, achievements unlocked, loot plundered or ship upgrades acquired will carry over if players opt to buy the full game after the free week concludes.
The compelling free trial lays down an enticing plank for curious gamers to walk. When Skull and Bones originally launched in February after years of delays, it was met with lackluster reviews criticizing the repetitive gameplay loop and lack of content. Physical sales were also severely disappointing.
However, Ubisoft seems determined to recruit more crews by getting the full pirate sandbox experience into as many hands as possible with this free access period. The free week conveniently arrives just days before the launch of Skull and Bones’ second season of post-launch content on May 28th as well.
To further entice landlubbers, Ubisoft is offering a 50% discount on purchasing Skull and Bones outright during the free week promotion across platforms. The game’s premium edition bundles are also half-off on the publisher’s own store.
Despite the rough reception out of the gate, Skull and Bones still garnered praise for its gorgeous ocean vistas and satisfying naval combat. Perhaps with some fresh wind in its sails from this free week and new seasonal content, a new bounty of players could help turn Ubisoft’s high-seas adventure into a gaming treasure after all.
