After a long wait, gaming enthusiasts can finally dive into Ubisoft's Skull and Bones during its open beta, commencing on February 7th. The beta comes with exclusive rewards that will persist in the full release of Skull and Bones.
Initially announced in 2017, Skull and Bones is set to launch on February 16th. Originally conceived as an expansion to Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, the game has evolved through various developer changes, new concepts, and numerous delays to become its own entity. In Skull and Bones, players commence as ordinary pirates and strive to ascend the ranks by participating in naval battles, exploration, and more. The eagerly anticipated open beta is just around the corner, offering all fans the chance to finally immerse themselves in the game.
Ubisoft has announced that the open beta for Skull and Bones will commence on February 7th at 9 pm EST and conclude on February 11th at 6 pm EST. Users can preload the beta starting from February 6th at 4 am EST. The beta will be accessible to all Xbox Series X and S, PlayStation 5, and PC users. PC enthusiasts can download the beta through Ubisoft Connect or the Epic Games Store. Beta progression will carry over to the full game and also allows players to earn exclusive rewards, including two ship cosmetics, an emote, a pet, and a weapon. Throughout the beta, players can partake in Main Campaign Contracts, Bounty Contracts, Side Contracts, World Events, and more.
Skull and Bones Open Beta Dates and Times
- Preload: February 6th at 4 am EST
- Start: February 7th at 9 pm EST
- End: February 11th at 6 pm EST
During Skull and Bones' open beta, players will encounter various factions while exploring the Red Isle, coast of Africa, open seas, and East Indies. Additionally, viewers who watch a favorite Twitch streamer play the open beta for an hour will earn the Snow Leopard pet Twitch drop. Although the beta will have a level cap, players can continue playing after reaching this level, allowing them to pursue loot, earn silver, and complete activities even after reaching the cap of Brigand (Tier 6 Rank 1). Furthermore, players can start customizing their ships during the open beta, a feature that has resonated strongly with some fans.
Exclusive Rewards in Skull and Bones' Open Beta
- Ship cosmetic: Sir Reginald Grim Sail emblem (Reach Tier 2)
- Ship cosmetic: Tarred Sail pattern (Reach Tier 4)
- Emote: Sign Language (Reach Tier 6)
- Pet: "Cookie" The Lemur (Use a medium ship)
- Weapon: "Basilisk I" Culverin (Participate in a World Event)
Recently, Skull and Bones unveiled its year-one roadmap, featuring four seasons that will introduce new missions, world events, and unlockable items. Each season will showcase a different Pirate Lord that players can challenge after attaining sufficient capability.
The beta's release, just a week ahead of Skull and Bones' full launch, makes it seem more like a demo than a beta. Some players had voiced concerns after participating in Skull and Bones' closed betas, so new players may want to temper their expectations. Nevertheless, this ambitious game is poised to make an impact among pirate enthusiasts.