Ubisoft on Monday officially announced the next installment in its popular Assassin's Creed Series, Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag. As previously teased, the upcoming title will feature a new hero and setting, and the "most diverse and seamless Assassin's Creed world ever created," Ubisoft said.

Black Flag, which has been in development for almost two years, tells the story of Edward Kenway, a young British man who seeks danger and adventure. After privateering for the Royal Navy, he falls into piracy and finds himself in the middle of a war between Assassins and Templars. You can expect to encounter famous pirates like Black Beard and Charles Vane (though not Guybrush Threepwood, unfortunately).


"With the new hero and new setting we are creating the boldest and most unique Assassin’s Creed game yet, while still respecting the [censored]ars of the franchise that have made it such a fan favorite," said Yves Guillemot, chief executive officer at Ubisoft. "Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is based on a true, harsh and exciting part of a legendary era and will thrill longtime fans and newcomers alike."


Black Flag launches to the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U, and PC on October 29, while a PS4 version is in development. Customers who purchase Black Flag for PS3/4 can download 60 minutes of additional gameplay via the PlayStation Network after the game's launch. Altenrately, pre-ordering through GameStop gets you a limited edition poster created by Todd McFarlane. It has artwork on the front and a map of the New World (with clues to hidden secrets) on the back.