10 Worst Video Games Of 2024

It may have had its ups and downs, but Assassin Creed has remained reasonably consistent since its conception. However, Ubisoft has a habit of churning out entries in rapid succession, making them feel a bit samey. 

That's why it was refreshing when the company announced a new IP called Skull and Bones. The game was intended to implement the same naval mechanics and piracy themes as Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, which is considered a landmark in the franchise. Considering this literal flagship game had a $200 million budget and spent almost ten years in development, Skull and Bones seemed like it could succeed Assassin Creed as Ubisoft's defining brand.

Against the odds, the self-proclaimed "quadruple-A" game rated lower than Unity, often cited as the nadir of Assassin Creed. Despite the fact Black Flag served as the blueprint for Skull and Bones, it felt like a stripped down version of that title. You can't swashbuckle between vessels nor can you explore the ocean. Hell, you can't even walk around your ship.

Instead, the bulk of the gameplay focuses on laying siege to enemy frigates and galleons, and stealing their material to upgrade your ship. But since your human character doesn't carry out these actions, you feel less like a pirate and more like a vulture.

Combat similar to Black Flag was intended, but it was scrapped to make room for land-based exploration sections, which are barren and laborious.

Even though Skull and Bones was meant to be Ubisoft's next big thing, it goes without saying that ship has sailed.