User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 922 Ratings

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  1. Sep 3, 2023
    8
    Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaameeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees!acbf
  2. Jul 28, 2023
    8
    A beatiful sequel of Assassin's Creed 3 with a fantastic free roaming style....and a great setting of atmosphere and a beatiful story.Still worth it to play after a decade only one thing is bad the repetitive of combat system style P.S. (I Played both version of the game PS3/PS4 and XBOX360)
  3. Apr 7, 2023
    8
    One of the best pirate games ever made but not that great of an assassin game. The story is really good though, and the pirate aspects alone make this one of the best games in the series, for all the wrong reasons. They should've called it Pirate's Creed.
  4. Feb 1, 2023
    10
    Incredible game. Just don't go in wanting difficult combat mechanics. For those who complain about all the side things just don't do them.
  5. Jan 27, 2023
    8
    Assassins Creed Assassins Creed Assassins Creed Assassins Creed Assassins Creed
  6. Jul 16, 2022
    10
    Jogo que mais me marcou. A imersão e o protagonista são simplesmente incríveis.
  7. Feb 13, 2022
    10
    A MASTERPIECE S2, extremely amazing game, little cloying, addictive gameplay, memorable fights and improvement system, the best game I've ever played without a doubt.
  8. Dec 28, 2021
    9
    Atmosphere: 9
    Enjoyment: 10
    Gameplay: 9
    Graphics: 8
    Music: 10
    Story: 8
    Total: 9.00
  9. Aug 17, 2021
    10
    A drunken Pirate turned Assassin who is the grandfather of the protagonist and father to the antagonist in the previous game with being able to command a ship and have side missions with the ships based in the Caribbean? Bet your bottom dollar this is my fav. AC game there was, especially when it came out.
  10. Apr 13, 2021
    8
    I feel like I am pirate. Open world is very big and amazing. Graphics are good for 2013. But Edward's combat mechanics aren't enjoyable It is simple and it looks weird. Story is so so but characters are very bad especially our enemies
  11. Feb 8, 2021
    9
    The best Assassin's Creed game out there. It's also one of the best games out there.
  12. Jan 10, 2021
    9
    Gameplay..............Great
    Graphics................Amazing
    Story.......................Good
    Score.....................Amazing
  13. Dec 18, 2020
    10
    Best Assassins Creed imo. Loved it when I played it on my XBOX 360 some time ago.
  14. Nov 24, 2020
    8
    TL;DR spoiler-free Review.

    Great story, good gameplay, the AI feels poor, still.

    Overall: 85
  15. Jul 1, 2020
    9
    One of the greatest Assassin's Creed game. They took out the best feature from AC3, and made it 10 times better. Edward is a brilliant character. The only bad thing I can talk about is the modern story.
  16. Jun 4, 2020
    10
    i love this series and loved this game gotta be honest havent played them in a while in fact this was the last one i played through but when people were sayin this was boring and all that to me this one was the best of the bunch gameplay wise okay. they were actually getting better with each one. gotta get me the pc vers of this too and play on ultra
  17. May 29, 2020
    10
    Unbelievable how much fun this game can be, the main missions are some of the best I've ever played with lots of variety, with a great story of course, and then all the side content gives you plenty more to see. Stunning graphics that pull you into the world and leave you wanting more (gonna play freedom cry next!)
  18. Apr 13, 2020
    9
    Played on XBOX 360.
    Gameplay: GREAT.
    Story: GREAT.
    Graphic: GREAT.
    Music/Sound: GREAT.
    Dialogue/Voice Acting: GREAT.
  19. May 21, 2019
    8
    Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is easily my favorite Assassin's Creed game. The combat, which super simple when you break it down, is tons of fun and super satisfying.
  20. Jan 23, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Cuando lo anunciaron ya lo esperaba con ganas,una temática que me encanta y las batallas navales,parece que aprendieron del 3 y lo mejoraron todo, sin duda uno de mis favoritos,además Edward Kenway me parece sublime,tiene una evolución a lo largo del juego brutal,como un hombre que lo tenía todo lo abandona por un sueño y lo vuelve a perder todo de manera drástica,se hunde y resurge de sus cenizas mas fuerte que nunca,lo dicho...sublime. Expand
  21. Dec 19, 2018
    9
    Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is one of the best Assassin's Creed games, because of many pros, like the story, the battleship system, the stealth system and the upgrading system.
    The story of the game is my favorite of all Assassin's Creed games, the intersection of the old days with the pirates and "nowadays" with the Abstergo trying to acquire all informations about the assassins
    Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is one of the best Assassin's Creed games, because of many pros, like the story, the battleship system, the stealth system and the upgrading system.
    The story of the game is my favorite of all Assassin's Creed games, the intersection of the old days with the pirates and "nowadays" with the Abstergo trying to acquire all informations about the assassins stories, is just rad!
    The battleship system is exciting, your pirate ship attacking other ships imposing fear and submission to the black flag, it's just amazing!
    The stealth system is one of the best I have ever seen before, not like the stealth of The Elder Scrolls 5.
    The updating system make all sense and is equilibrated among the player and NPC's.
    Expand
  22. Sep 10, 2018
    9
    The game is simply different to predecessors in AC's franchise. AC IV is full of things to do, too many secondary missions, giant map to explore and traces of RPG, beyond playability got better. Story is not too captivating, it would said weak, but just for the fact being changed in relation past games, its a worthwhile game.
  23. Jan 19, 2018
    10
    Assassins Creed Black Flag is masterpiece
    its have big open world full of things to do, side activity to complete, animals to hunt and use it for armor or weapons,
    big fishes to kill on water, explore under the water, upgrade your ship, destroy templers outposts and many more things aside of that it have great story, awesome game-play, and beautiful graphics for any platforms. i highly
    Assassins Creed Black Flag is masterpiece
    its have big open world full of things to do, side activity to complete, animals to hunt and use it for armor or weapons,
    big fishes to kill on water, explore under the water, upgrade your ship, destroy templers outposts and many more things
    aside of that it have great story, awesome game-play, and beautiful graphics for any platforms.
    i highly recommend this game for every one.
    Expand
  24. Jan 7, 2018
    8
    Assassins'Creed IV: It is a game Developed by Ubisoft, Being the sixth installment of the main saga

    History: That tells The story Edward Kenway a pirate of the era of the Reconquest of the Caribbean, although the story is well built and filled many gaps in the vacuum of the saga, I can not stop thinking that It could have been more and during the Most of the game, I did not feel what
    Assassins'Creed IV: It is a game Developed by Ubisoft, Being the sixth installment of the main saga

    History: That tells The story Edward Kenway a pirate of the era of the Reconquest of the Caribbean, although the story is well built and filled many gaps in the vacuum of the saga, I can not stop thinking that It could have been more and during the Most of the game, I did not feel what they wanted to tell me But that's why it's much more heartbreaking The end, Edward realized that despite all his effort to return home he just realizes he has a daughter and that his woman died, along with all her companions, if the story conveyed her message as it should give her a 10 but does not pay attention until the last minute

    Gameplay: I'm not going to overreach, The gameplay on land is almost the same as previous deliveries but adds the maritime component that is a good plus since almost all the game happens at sea, but we know that it is ubisoft and there is always some bugs in my case were not very important but they were somewhat annoying

    Music: Even though I do not stay for the memory as a legendary melody, I'm not going to say that they were not interesting, they transmit a story normally about their protagonists and that's appreciated

    Art: The art is beautiful and The truth gives the sensation of being in our own Caribbean game field But it seemed to me that they should vary a little more the landscape between the small islands

    Final Note: History: 8.5

    Gameplay: 7

    Music: 8.5

    Art: 9

    Final Score: 8.25
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  25. Aug 17, 2017
    10
    My first game from AC. Black flag is very good game, gold area of piracy, beatiful Carabbean Sea, nice mature story without happy ending. Very good graphic on xbox 360, nice soundtrack and also swimming by boat on the sea, finding treasure, secrets map, side missions. I think it was the best game on xbox 360 since i play on this console.
  26. Oct 15, 2016
    9
    O melhor que o jogo tem a história incrível de Edward, um cara que apareceu na frente de templários do nada e chego causando, jogabilidade boa e com missões secundárias que chegam a ser mais complicadas do as da campanha( como derrotar os navios lendários), e claro com o realismo de sempre da saga do jogo com a presença de barba negra e vários outros piratas e corsários que tocaram oO melhor que o jogo tem a história incrível de Edward, um cara que apareceu na frente de templários do nada e chego causando, jogabilidade boa e com missões secundárias que chegam a ser mais complicadas do as da campanha( como derrotar os navios lendários), e claro com o realismo de sempre da saga do jogo com a presença de barba negra e vários outros piratas e corsários que tocaram o terror no Caribe. Só não dou 10 por que tem algumas coisas sem sentido na história como cabeças azuis voadoras. Expand
  27. Jul 7, 2016
    9
    The best game in the franchise. The game's unique settings of being a pirate and an assassin make it my favorite game for a long time. A player virtually plays two games: the common assassin role, and as a pirate with incredible amounts of incentive to keep playing and upgrading your ship. Their also cool additions such as hunting, harpooning, and underwater diving for treasure chests. OneThe best game in the franchise. The game's unique settings of being a pirate and an assassin make it my favorite game for a long time. A player virtually plays two games: the common assassin role, and as a pirate with incredible amounts of incentive to keep playing and upgrading your ship. Their also cool additions such as hunting, harpooning, and underwater diving for treasure chests. One doesn't necessary love the main character as he is incredibly self-interested, but other than the slight lacking of a true story line, this game is amazing. Expand
  28. Mar 4, 2016
    9
    I occasionally dip my toe in and out of the Assassins Creed franchise, a casual fan of the series at most. I was pleasantly surprised by this addition to the series, one of my least favourite parts of my previous endeavour into the Creed (Assassins Creed III), was the sea segments, I always felt the sea combat was lacking something, However Black Flag grabs this aspect by the horns,I occasionally dip my toe in and out of the Assassins Creed franchise, a casual fan of the series at most. I was pleasantly surprised by this addition to the series, one of my least favourite parts of my previous endeavour into the Creed (Assassins Creed III), was the sea segments, I always felt the sea combat was lacking something, However Black Flag grabs this aspect by the horns, updates and seamlessly combines it with the hand to hand combat element of the series, which is the main staple of previous games.

    You will become truly immersed in the golden age of piracy, with a vast open world, populated with genuinely interesting characters coupled stellar voice acting (Ralph Ineson "Finchy" of "The Office" fame, being one of the most notable).

    My only major gripe, would be of the modern day "missions", in which you play the role of a silent, manipulated Abstergo Entertainment employee. These segments are certainly lacking and don't really have much weight, just serve as an inevitable mundane segway between different sequences, This was something that was done somewhat well in previous games, but not here.
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  29. Nov 8, 2015
    8
    Black Flag takes the freedom of Assassin's Creed III and improves upon it in every way. Naval combat is now fully cemented into the roots of the gameplay and is a joy to behold. Plundering the West Indies makes for fantastic entertainment and combat is rich here too. The multiple settings in Black Flag are the most tropical yet. Havana and Nassau have a distinct beauty and charm and it'sBlack Flag takes the freedom of Assassin's Creed III and improves upon it in every way. Naval combat is now fully cemented into the roots of the gameplay and is a joy to behold. Plundering the West Indies makes for fantastic entertainment and combat is rich here too. The multiple settings in Black Flag are the most tropical yet. Havana and Nassau have a distinct beauty and charm and it's wonderfully refreshing to not be trapped within one city in an AC game, freedom is everything here. However as free as you are, you are not free from yet another tepid story that lacks any really backbone. The playable protagonist is likeable though and this leads to you having some sort of investment in the outcome of his tale. Again I was fascinated to be in the presence of real historical characters. Franklin last year, Blackbeard this year. Not since Brotherhood have I found few flaws with an AC game. Black Flag is a brilliant adventure in the West Indies rich in naval combat which is led by a likeable protagonist who is able to successfully tie up the Kenway story. Expand
  30. Sep 9, 2015
    8
    A solid game with many hours of game play, they took most of the best out of the many assassin games and put it into this one. Although possibly debatable if it is better then the second assassin Italian game, a matter of preference.

    A few gripes; The game is easy.. The wanted level should have stuck, until lowering it, not from de-syncing, possibly also causing a loss of cargo if
    A solid game with many hours of game play, they took most of the best out of the many assassin games and put it into this one. Although possibly debatable if it is better then the second assassin Italian game, a matter of preference.

    A few gripes; The game is easy.. The wanted level should have stuck, until lowering it, not from de-syncing, possibly also causing a loss of cargo if from de-syncing. The naval combat in the previous game was often much harder and timed. I agree there are some exceptions, but a few upgrades later, invicibly it becomes an exercise in really simple repetition. Even those legendary ships are easily mortared using speed at a range for their easy sinking. In naval combat there shouldn't have been any quick repairs via boarding until after combat, making combat a lot easier. There is far to much pointless assimust, low value chest, and some other craft that will never get used. I agree sometimes some of these collectibles provide other challenge with their exceptional customization. However those many sandbars with that single assimust fragment, or some cheap chest are more often just annoying. When playing the fleet side mini mission naval routes game, I really don't want to wait for them all to come home and get emptied, before later selecting just how I want to arrange my fleet. I wanted to hold stock of ships, within storage, choosing how to later customize my fleet. Who designed the awful sim city in the Assbergo HQ, the traffic on those roads is colliding into each other. Please make a separate run button outside of the free run button, I really don't want to be climbing walls every time I sprint.

    Overall a really solid 8. This game is very enjoyable and fun it contains mostly everything wanted within a better game, containing a lot of customisation and problem solving, using great graphics, characters and gameplay. Although it soon can become quite easy and repetitive..
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  31. Aug 28, 2015
    8
    Scores first:
    Graphics 8.5/10
    Sound 9.5/10
    Story 10/10
    Game play 9/10

    A worthy addition to the series though lacking in the depth that AC2 set. Totally saves itself with PIRATES and fun ship combat.
  32. Jun 23, 2015
    8
    t took a while to grow on me, but overall, it's a great game, and an out of the box experience for Assassin's Creed from a storytelling standpoint. The Mayan ruins are among my favorite levels in any videogame.
  33. Jun 14, 2015
    9
    Assassin's creed IV: Black Flag is a joy to play from start to finish. Being a pirate in the Caribbean has never been so much fun. The gameplay is very smooth and easy to learn just like the previous Assassin's creed games. Combat is way improved over the previous Assassin's creed games too. The graphics are also amazing to look at and full of detail. There are also some fun puzzles youAssassin's creed IV: Black Flag is a joy to play from start to finish. Being a pirate in the Caribbean has never been so much fun. The gameplay is very smooth and easy to learn just like the previous Assassin's creed games. Combat is way improved over the previous Assassin's creed games too. The graphics are also amazing to look at and full of detail. There are also some fun puzzles you can do to earn a ton of cash to buy more weapons and upgrade your ship. The soundtrack is simply amazing and very cleverly done. This is a must-buy. Expand
  34. May 3, 2015
    10
    This game is cool at the start. Yes, really fun. But, after 4 hours of gameplay, you rather go to sleep them keep sailing to upgrade your ship. The sea battles are fun only at the start, them they get boring, and everything you do in the sea goes the same way, the only really good moments are the ones with the assassin is on the land. It's not a game that is going to entertain you from theThis game is cool at the start. Yes, really fun. But, after 4 hours of gameplay, you rather go to sleep them keep sailing to upgrade your ship. The sea battles are fun only at the start, them they get boring, and everything you do in the sea goes the same way, the only really good moments are the ones with the assassin is on the land. It's not a game that is going to entertain you from the start to the end. Expand
  35. Apr 27, 2015
    8
    I liked it... its the first assasins creed title I play.. I played it cause it was free on xbox live gold on the 360. Smart move cause now I'm definitly byuing more games of this franchise. Great game.
  36. Apr 27, 2015
    8
    Assassin's Creed 4 may have the most interesting and expansive open world in any Assassin's Creed creed game, but the adventure element of number 2 is missing a little bit because of '100% checklist formula' that plagues it.
  37. Apr 19, 2015
    10
    Absolutely loved this game. This is truly an Open World and there is plenty to do. The seafaring steals the show from the main story. The atmosphere when sailing is truly amazing. This is a Must buy
  38. Apr 18, 2015
    8
    Ok so before i jumped off the roof i loaded this up on my blue Xbox 360 [with custom plexiglass case and LED's] So this game is way better than AC:3 is a lot of ways and also a lot bigger [but nowhere near as big as my penis, please don't hate] . Also my girlfriend said she liked to have even more sex while i played this game because she liked the idea of me being a pirate? I eat moreOk so before i jumped off the roof i loaded this up on my blue Xbox 360 [with custom plexiglass case and LED's] So this game is way better than AC:3 is a lot of ways and also a lot bigger [but nowhere near as big as my penis, please don't hate] . Also my girlfriend said she liked to have even more sex while i played this game because she liked the idea of me being a pirate? I eat more tacos while playing this. Also i saved that hoodrat from the castle. P.S. Pwn the sharks my girlfriend loves me. Gotta go =) Expand
  39. Apr 5, 2015
    8
    YEAH! Pirates! Treasure! Adventure! Assassins! Everything is fun in this game. I love it. Its one of my favorite games. But, it cant get a higher score because of some boring stealth sections and glitches.
  40. Jan 19, 2015
    9
    By far the best AC game there is, right up next to AC2. The game is vast and exploration is addictive. Naval combat is perfected with challenging yet pretty rewarding battles. There is much to upgrade: a ship, yourself, and a homestead. The plot is slightly more lighthearted than the rest of the AC games but it still does pull at your emotions and has an ending that closes things up in aBy far the best AC game there is, right up next to AC2. The game is vast and exploration is addictive. Naval combat is perfected with challenging yet pretty rewarding battles. There is much to upgrade: a ship, yourself, and a homestead. The plot is slightly more lighthearted than the rest of the AC games but it still does pull at your emotions and has an ending that closes things up in a great way. The only problem with the xbox games is that the Aveline DLC isn't being release on them, other than that it the game is definitely worth a play, AC fan or not. Expand
  41. Dec 12, 2014
    9
    After 2 rather disappointing games, Ubisoft finally gets it right. This is a very fun, plenty to do game with a lot of great characters, most of which are based on real people e.g. Blackbeard, Black Bart, Mary and Anne. Most of your time is spent on the sea as a pirate but NOT an assassin. The outside world story is not very interesting and the game can become repetitive, but the game moreAfter 2 rather disappointing games, Ubisoft finally gets it right. This is a very fun, plenty to do game with a lot of great characters, most of which are based on real people e.g. Blackbeard, Black Bart, Mary and Anne. Most of your time is spent on the sea as a pirate but NOT an assassin. The outside world story is not very interesting and the game can become repetitive, but the game more than makes up for it. Expand
  42. Nov 18, 2014
    10
    LEAVE HER JOHNNY LEAVE HER! This game took my conceptions about what an assassin's creed game should be and literally shoved them up my ass. To be honest this is probably one of the best games ive ever played, the visuals are amazing, the open world something to be experienced, the naval combat is vastly improved on ACIII to the extent where they could make an entire game out of it (whichLEAVE HER JOHNNY LEAVE HER! This game took my conceptions about what an assassin's creed game should be and literally shoved them up my ass. To be honest this is probably one of the best games ive ever played, the visuals are amazing, the open world something to be experienced, the naval combat is vastly improved on ACIII to the extent where they could make an entire game out of it (which they have, and assassin's creed Rogue is awesome too).

    The environments were stunning, palm trees waving, crystal blue waters, storms and lightning, rogue waves and pirate hunters. Ive never actually played a game that made me want to quit my job and go off and sail the seas, catch a whale, run through trees after song sheets and jump into floating yellow orbs in the sky.

    If you havent played this game, then you are a sailor and dont need to. If you arent a sailor then play this game you bloody land-shark. Get out there, buy this game, become a god damn sea god and SET SAIL, Y'ALL **** NEED THE SEA!
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  43. Nov 12, 2014
    10
    A very good game in all departments. I have got the game to 94% completion, only things outstanding are a few multiplayer bits.

    If you have not tried this franchise before this would make a great entry point as it is slightly disengaged from the previous stories, although there are some flashbacks. If you are reading/making the negative reviews with regards to it being repetitive /
    A very good game in all departments. I have got the game to 94% completion, only things outstanding are a few multiplayer bits.

    If you have not tried this franchise before this would make a great entry point as it is slightly disengaged from the previous stories, although there are some flashbacks.

    If you are reading/making the negative reviews with regards to it being repetitive / the same as all the previous games, then don't bother playing Assassin's Creed games! Surely now after 6+ games you get the idea of the basic premise of the game, its controls and general feel.

    IF YOU DIDN'T LIKE THE PREVIOUS ONES DON'T BOTHER BUYING THIS ONE!!! SIMPLE!!!
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  44. Aug 22, 2014
    9
    This is a great game. It isn't my favorite in the series, but looking passed my bias towards Assassin's Creed 3 and Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, it truly is an interesting and exciting twist on the franchise, where as Edward is more drawn to money and wealth than to finding ancient artifacts. His pirate nature blends nicely with the assassin ways, and wielding dual swords is more thanThis is a great game. It isn't my favorite in the series, but looking passed my bias towards Assassin's Creed 3 and Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, it truly is an interesting and exciting twist on the franchise, where as Edward is more drawn to money and wealth than to finding ancient artifacts. His pirate nature blends nicely with the assassin ways, and wielding dual swords is more than satisfying. This is a great installment in the Assassin's Creed series, and a massive amount of fun overall. Expand
  45. Aug 3, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I played the whole Assassin's Creed series right from the beginning and sadly i have to say that this one was the weakest (besides AC Revelations). Now, this was not a bad game! You had a lot of things to do, with a open world and graphics which were blowing your mind for the size of the world and amount of animations. I was sailing on the water without thinking about how long I will do that, because it was so much fun. You really had that sailor/pirate feeling!
    Now comes the big...
    BUT, I think that the protagonist (Edward Kenway) is not an Assassin! Until the end he did not enter the Brotherhood of Assassins. Besides that, he did not even have to learn all the stuff like climbing, assassination with the hidden blade or stuff like that. Right from the beginning he was able to do that kind of things!
    The story was, in my opinion, a little bit thin and could not keep up with the other parts of the series. (Except AC Revelations).
    The characters were ok. Not very interesting, not too boring or annoying. Excepting this little guy named Stede Bonnett or whatever his name was. He was just unnecessary...
    But, like I wrote above, this game was not bad! I don't know if I would buy it again for 70€ but Iam ok with the statement that I bought it.
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  46. Jul 20, 2014
    10
    This game blew my mind when I played it. Not only is it the best AC in the series, it's also the best pirate game I've ever played. The naval mechanic shows this brilliantly, with a plentiful world, amazing graphics, great combat and, in my opinion the best part of the game, ship boarding. The rest of the game is no pushover either, with vibrant locations, great hunting mechanics, combatThis game blew my mind when I played it. Not only is it the best AC in the series, it's also the best pirate game I've ever played. The naval mechanic shows this brilliantly, with a plentiful world, amazing graphics, great combat and, in my opinion the best part of the game, ship boarding. The rest of the game is no pushover either, with vibrant locations, great hunting mechanics, combat that's still fantastic, and a great backstory. The parkour is still brilliant too. This game merged two genres, and spectacularly well at that. Expand
  47. Jul 15, 2014
    10
    I bought this game on December 26, 2013. Played it for days on end almost non-stop. After I finished the game I walked out of my room and literally had no idea what year it was.
  48. Jun 27, 2014
    10
    this game really surprised me, I'm a fan of the saga, but for me none beat the brotherhoods and finally got one that overcome, the game is perfect, images, gameplay, hours, missions, character, everything was great and we expect to be the next as good as, and not be just another game in the series.
  49. May 27, 2014
    9
    It's a different Assassin's Creed. It's more about piracy it self than the Assassin order. But that doesn't mean that AC4 is bad. Quite the opposite. Good graphics, good engine and good story, and nearly perfect naval combats.
  50. May 21, 2014
    10
    This game is on par with Assassin's Creed 2, absolutely fantastic! Surprises you around every corner. There are many things to keep you busy, well worth the money!
  51. May 20, 2014
    10
    Freedom at last. Black Flag stands toe to toe with the best in the franchise. Past games were really harsh on the player if you ever stepped out of bounds. This entry makes you an incredible swordsmen from the start and equips you to kill stealthily early on. Sailing is an absolutely beautiful experience made possible by a stunning ocean and an open and vast overworld. You can play an hourFreedom at last. Black Flag stands toe to toe with the best in the franchise. Past games were really harsh on the player if you ever stepped out of bounds. This entry makes you an incredible swordsmen from the start and equips you to kill stealthily early on. Sailing is an absolutely beautiful experience made possible by a stunning ocean and an open and vast overworld. You can play an hour at a time and have the impression that you've covered lots of ground and accomplished much of significance. Ubisoft has hit all the right notes, with very little in the way of blemishes. If it's a pirate's life for you, this game is worth your time and money. Expand
  52. May 17, 2014
    8
    Great game
    if you liked the other games of the serie, you will for sur like it
    improved mechanics and attention to details is what makes it a hit.
    My only negative point is, yes, all that moth**f*** naval thing. fun for one single mission but in this case it's just too much.
  53. May 6, 2014
    10
    Great game for my lady , she isn't in all game, I'd say mostly visually stimulating and this is one if you played older assign's creed before and know what's up a bit, they make you're busy til the end.

    Graphics 9.5
    Gameplay 9
    Replay 8.5
  54. Apr 8, 2014
    10
    this game is easily the best assassins creed game yet, the combat was swift naval combat was awesome the graphics were amazing and the open world is huge there are a few bugs and the multiplayer was dry and sometimes boring but other than that it is an overall great game
  55. Mar 24, 2014
    8
    Black Flag is full of stuff to do. Plunder ships, take forts, hunt animals, dive wrecks, find buried treasure, and assassinate those bad bad Templars. The single-player is fun, but can get repetitive. Don't even bother with the multiplayer. They missed so much co-op potential, going for a boring bizarre hunt and kill mode instead of an actual story.
    Singleplayer: 8/10
    Multiplayer: 3/10
  56. Mar 21, 2014
    9
    FUN fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun funFUN fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun fun Expand
  57. Mar 20, 2014
    9
    With the last three Assassin's Creed games disappointing me to no end (especially AC3). I was pleasantly surprised to find this game as good as it was. This is what Assassin's Creed needs to be and what it should of been for the past three games. For the first time since AC2 the story was actually good, and unlike AC3 the voice-acting was great. There is so much to see and do in this gameWith the last three Assassin's Creed games disappointing me to no end (especially AC3). I was pleasantly surprised to find this game as good as it was. This is what Assassin's Creed needs to be and what it should of been for the past three games. For the first time since AC2 the story was actually good, and unlike AC3 the voice-acting was great. There is so much to see and do in this game that you actually feel like a buccaneer during the "Golden Age of Piracy". It was great to see historical figures who were accurately portrayed this time unlike AC3. This game is so much fun that I recommend it to anyone who would enjoy good adventure games. Expand
  58. Mar 12, 2014
    9
    The best entry so far in the AC series. A must-buy if you're really into pirates. The mapo is huge, a lot of things to see and do, but the 'tail and eavesdrop' missions kind of bring the game down. It's still a great game though, despite those flaws.
  59. Mar 1, 2014
    10
    well i played the game for about a week or 2 weeks and its been good now,no glitches and doesn't act weird sometimes..so i guess its the best assassin's creed game especially the ships and the hunting gives it a special feeling when you're playing it,totally recommended
  60. Ape
    Feb 26, 2014
    9
    Great game that really tries to bring back the stealth aspects of the game without over doing it. The pirates and using your ship is great. Side missions are everywhere, they take advantage of the open world concept while still allowing fast-travel so as not to bog you down or slow the pacing you'd like for yourself. I did wish it were a bit longer but overall really fun to play. It hasGreat game that really tries to bring back the stealth aspects of the game without over doing it. The pirates and using your ship is great. Side missions are everywhere, they take advantage of the open world concept while still allowing fast-travel so as not to bog you down or slow the pacing you'd like for yourself. I did wish it were a bit longer but overall really fun to play. It has the same mechanics as 3 but this time it's in an environment that can really take them to the next level. I really wasn't even going to buy this game until the lat minute because I though it would be 3 all over but it wasn't and that was great.Hope they make the next one's more like this one. Expand
  61. Feb 19, 2014
    8
    Gameplay same old same old Assassin's Creed- Boat combat is on of the best mechanics in gaming of the last couple years- The ability to free roam around in boats, collect buried treasure, fight legendary ships, take on fleets of ships- Story is fantastic- Pirate genre is a PLUS.
    Get this game if:
    1. You love the pirate genre 2. Loved the ship combat in AC3 3. You love history Do not
    Gameplay same old same old Assassin's Creed- Boat combat is on of the best mechanics in gaming of the last couple years- The ability to free roam around in boats, collect buried treasure, fight legendary ships, take on fleets of ships- Story is fantastic- Pirate genre is a PLUS.
    Get this game if:
    1. You love the pirate genre
    2. Loved the ship combat in AC3
    3. You love history

    Do not get this game if:
    1. You do not like AC combat
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  62. Feb 17, 2014
    8
    After the disappointing ACIII this game in the series revives some aspects of the AC series but it also fails in some others

    Pros:Much better Character unlike Conor, Edward Kenway is much more likable and just more badass,The open ocean and your ship are a breath of fresh air to the Cashcow series it also controls good, and is arguably the best part of the game,Cheats yes cheats unlike
    After the disappointing ACIII this game in the series revives some aspects of the AC series but it also fails in some others

    Pros:Much better Character unlike Conor, Edward Kenway is much more likable and just more badass,The open ocean and your ship are a breath of fresh air to the Cashcow series it also controls good, and is arguably the best part of the game,Cheats yes cheats unlike the other games with 100% mission complete and no rewards collecting things and doing good is rewarded with humorous cheats,the modern sections are much better this time around, and finally the graphics, for a game on a 8 year old console ACIV really looks good.

    Cons:The story is a bit lacking,there's alot and i mean alot of tail missions,combat is still a bit clunky, and finally the ship and ocean itself, you almost never want to go on land sine the ship is too damn fun and land is well...not a giant pirate ship used to plunder Man-O-Wars
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  63. Feb 10, 2014
    9
    A great, ambitious, and innovative entry in a great series. You play as edward Kenway a selfish privateer captain who actually isn't an assassin and switches around and works for booth sides. The story is better then ac3, but not ac2 that starts of slow but has exciting story arcs and climaxes. The story feels like a compilation of classic pirate tales! However, the real fun in the game isA great, ambitious, and innovative entry in a great series. You play as edward Kenway a selfish privateer captain who actually isn't an assassin and switches around and works for booth sides. The story is better then ac3, but not ac2 that starts of slow but has exciting story arcs and climaxes. The story feels like a compilation of classic pirate tales! However, the real fun in the game is the huge sandbox. Instead of doing the story you can explore a massive Caribbean ocean sandbox with hidden islands, villages coves, underwater wreckages, and huge cities the size of a GTA city. You can upgrade Kenway and your ship as you gain reales the currency. With plenty of side missions, random events and collectables as well as a solid story. This game will keep you busy for awhile. Expand
  64. Feb 5, 2014
    10
    Assassin’s Creed Black Flag is the fourth installment in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, made by Ubisoft. In this game we delve into a genetic memory of a Pirate named Edward Kenway. Genetic memory is a concept from the creators of the assassin’s creed franchise that allows you to sit in a machine, called the Animus, and view/relive parts of your ancestor’s life, or like in this gameAssassin’s Creed Black Flag is the fourth installment in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, made by Ubisoft. In this game we delve into a genetic memory of a Pirate named Edward Kenway. Genetic memory is a concept from the creators of the assassin’s creed franchise that allows you to sit in a machine, called the Animus, and view/relive parts of your ancestor’s life, or like in this game someone else’s ancestor’s life. In this game you play as a pirate who acts pretty much like how you’d expect him to, wanting to get rich, have his own island, and drink as much rum as he could get his hands on. In this game, unlike the others, your character doesn’t really want anything to do with the assassins he just wants the pirate’s life. Slowly he is pulled into the world of the assassins and helps them with what they are trying to accomplish but only for a price.
    I liked the game it was a lot of fun and had a lot of different new elements that the previous games didn’t have. For example the open world is expansive, you have two swords on your sides at all times, you can have up to 4 pistols strapped to you at one time allowing for rapid shots, and if you want to you can play almost completely nonlethal. The world is huge and as you sail the open seas you can pretty much go where ever you want. You’re a pirate so you act like one, attacking and plundering any ship you want and taking the resources from it. One of the things I liked the most was the ship battling system; if you were able to take down a ship you could claim it as your own and add it to your own fleet. By doing this you can gain even more money and resources by sending this said fleet of ships on missions for you.
    The story line in this game was pretty good, it was basically about a man that was tired of being poor and wanted to change that and provide for his wife. The only way he saw to accomplish this was to become a pirate and when he had enough he would send for his wife and be done with the life. He however gets sucked into the pirate’s life and takes longer and longer and eventually he gets introduced to the Assassins and sucked into their battle with the Templars. Now I don’t think I should go any farther into the story least you haven’t played it yet and I ruin it for you.
    Their weren’t really many bad things that I felt the game had but I feel in order to give a fair review I should point out the very few things that I didn’t like about the game. While the story was entertaining there were just so many other things that I kept getting distracted with, other side missions and things that I would forget what was going on in the main story. Now this is probably my own fault, I should have just tried harder to stay on topic until I had finished the main story, but this may be a problem for you too if you’re like me and get distracted easily. The other thing that bothered me if I’m nitpicking was the one or two glitches that I had while playing. I had one enemy fall through the floor and couldn’t get to him to quiet him, the other part that messed up on me was when I was battling another ship and it wouldn’t allow me to board it and take it as my own. The last thing I didn’t much like, and this is completely a preference, I would have enjoyed having more things to do outside the Animus. There are many people on both sides on this opinion of liking being outside the animus and not, so this is just personal preference but I would have liked more to do.
    In the end I really liked it and thought the story was pretty good, I am still going back and doing the many side missions they provide for you, that I never finished, so I still have hours of fun left to play. The game was well made and very fun to play, and as far as I’m concerned didn’t really have any big problems with it. I really enjoyed playing it and feel that anyone else that has ever enjoyed any of the other Assassin’s Creed games, or likes action adventure games, will enjoy this one too.
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  65. Feb 3, 2014
    8
    Broken down by components this game would likely be a 7, however in its entirety it was a very good game.

    Story - always the weakest point of a AC game; story and execution here probably a 6 tops....why they continue to put the lame present-day story in is beyond me....that BS is always a ZERO! Action - the game allowed significant scope in how to approach the objectives; stealth,
    Broken down by components this game would likely be a 7, however in its entirety it was a very good game.

    Story - always the weakest point of a AC game; story and execution here probably a 6 tops....why they continue to put the lame present-day story in is beyond me....that BS is always a ZERO!
    Action - the game allowed significant scope in how to approach the objectives; stealth, force or a combination - 8
    World size - It looks bigger than it is; AC3 was actually larger. The only true area to roam is the ocean (which is a lot of fun), with all but a few of the islands very linear (no entering the woods, etc) follow the path stuff. - 7
    Open world - mini games (8), sea roaming & battles/ boarding/ fort battles (9.5 - the shanties are what stick with me from the game), mini-convoy activity (6), looting warehouses (6), underwater exploration (3), chase the courier (0), collectibles (6 - the rewards are not worth the time, but they aren't onerous)
    .
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  66. Feb 2, 2014
    9
    Excellent sequel to an already great series. The improvements upon everything are obvious to anyone who has followed the series. The graphx on the older gen are truly great for this hardware. The VOs are quite nice, the music is among the best in any videogame and the gameplay is refined.

    The only drawbacks are the quite boring "follow and eavesdrop" missions and the script which is
    Excellent sequel to an already great series. The improvements upon everything are obvious to anyone who has followed the series. The graphx on the older gen are truly great for this hardware. The VOs are quite nice, the music is among the best in any videogame and the gameplay is refined.

    The only drawbacks are the quite boring "follow and eavesdrop" missions and the script which is overall too shallow for a main game of the series. Though I enjoyed the pirate's tale, it wasn't as emotional as Ezio's or even Connor. Thankfully, Edward is a better character than Connor so that settles it somehow. , There are some twists in the rest mission design that I did not see coming. It has some of the best missions, full of tension of the series.

    Overall, this is the most refined AC yet, it has a ton of fresh ideas, the world is finally somewhat different than the other ACs and is full of collectibles.

    Shame on the 100% only if you connect to the internet. That's a step backwards.
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  67. Feb 1, 2014
    8
    The most successfully innovative AC game since AC2. The franchise was starting to get a bit stale but the massive improvement on the sailing from AC3 has brought all the fun back! Sailing on the high sea singing shanties before engaging a fleet of 10 ships is pure glee. Graphically more impressive; while running on the same engine as AC3, the lush greens and pale blues of the CaribbeanThe most successfully innovative AC game since AC2. The franchise was starting to get a bit stale but the massive improvement on the sailing from AC3 has brought all the fun back! Sailing on the high sea singing shanties before engaging a fleet of 10 ships is pure glee. Graphically more impressive; while running on the same engine as AC3, the lush greens and pale blues of the Caribbean stand out so much more. Running and climbing is faster and animations for them are smoother, the animal hunting has more of a purpose as a side activity and is much more rewarding to do and needless to say Edward and his pirate cove are much more enjoyable characters than in the previous games.

    Only issues are the fighting animations which clip more than ever before and the fighting itself remains far too easy. When boarding larger ships I noticed the frame rate would tank to abysmal levels but for a 360 game what do you expect? And the addition of ship combat undermines everything else in the game with the basic assassin work being a chore, such as tailing and conversation listening which quickly began to infuriate me. Overall a definite recommend.
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  68. Jan 23, 2014
    9
    I got this game for my birthday, and I was so exited I got this game, I literally craped in my thong. The graphics are personally better than the game the G T A 7 or what ever you call it. Its sad I didn't finish this game because I got a big erection and it hurt so bad, I had to go to the vet.
  69. Jan 23, 2014
    8
    Amazing game
    + Great Graphics
    + Fun, addicting game play
    + Amazingly giant map
    - Boring Start
    + New main character
    + Epic Ship Battles
    + Great Soundtrack
    + Fun Multi player
  70. Jan 22, 2014
    10
    AC IV is the best ac so far. it has amazing beautiful massive open world. it has very good story which talk about CAPTAIN EDWARD KENWAY a young man who dreamed to be rich and a respectable person after he suffered a lot from poorness and you will travel with him in his journey to find yourself between the Templar and Assassins war. I loved naval combat they made it a little more difficultAC IV is the best ac so far. it has amazing beautiful massive open world. it has very good story which talk about CAPTAIN EDWARD KENWAY a young man who dreamed to be rich and a respectable person after he suffered a lot from poorness and you will travel with him in his journey to find yourself between the Templar and Assassins war. I loved naval combat they made it a little more difficult as in ac3 the man of war was not big threat as well as the storms but in ac4 you need a lot of upgrades to board the man of war. the boarding system was amazing you feel like a real pirate there a lot of activities like diving and hunting shark and a lot of dangerous sea creature. they improved land as well they made the stealth very good they improved the eagle vision so you can see enemies behind the walls you actually feel it is quiet fun unlike ac3 as I felt it was so boring. Edward is very interesting character he is fearless ruthless but he has good amount of humor unlike Connor .finally I could say that as Red dead redemption gave us the complete feeling of the COWBOY , ac4 will give you the complete feeling of being a PIRATE Expand
  71. Jan 21, 2014
    10
    One of the best games around. Beats out minecraft any day. I am suprised that it is not higher. Like a 100. How can something stupid like a drama movie get higher?
  72. Jan 18, 2014
    10
    2013 for videogames was definitley meant to be a year of outstanding and new style of brilliant of video games. Sadly, and personally this was not the case. I felt 2013 was one of the blandest years for videogames, besides, of course, GTAV and the Playstation exclusive The Last of Us. Yet one game did shine through the darkness, and it's a completely worn out and overused format Assassin's2013 for videogames was definitley meant to be a year of outstanding and new style of brilliant of video games. Sadly, and personally this was not the case. I felt 2013 was one of the blandest years for videogames, besides, of course, GTAV and the Playstation exclusive The Last of Us. Yet one game did shine through the darkness, and it's a completely worn out and overused format Assassin's Creed sequel. But this game is so much more. It is the funnest game i've ever played, and for once Ubisoft doesn't waste our time with this confusing real world missions. There are real world missions within the game, but for the first time, I didn't hear myself sigh over-dramatically when I had to play them. They're interesting, and fun. I really Ubisoft learns from the success of this game and makes more like it. 10/10 Amazing. Expand
  73. Jan 16, 2014
    9
    If you are one of those Assassins Creed fans that did not appreciate Assassins Creed 3 then you are going to be happy with what Assassins Creed 4 has offered. For example many people were not satisfied with the Connor the previous protagonist of AC3 because they thought him to be dull and boring, however Edward Kenway is a much more colorful character as a result from his greed and pirateIf you are one of those Assassins Creed fans that did not appreciate Assassins Creed 3 then you are going to be happy with what Assassins Creed 4 has offered. For example many people were not satisfied with the Connor the previous protagonist of AC3 because they thought him to be dull and boring, however Edward Kenway is a much more colorful character as a result from his greed and pirate nature, and his low interest in the Assassins is what makes him unique from all the previous characters. The game described Edward as a pirate trained by Assassins, which is actually inaccurate because you never really know how he has his master skills in combat, he just has it, so if you wanted a little more background on him you may find that bad. Edward is just a pirate searching for fortune that found himself in the middle of a secret war between Assassins and Templars. Assassins Creed 4 introduces open world gameplay in an entire new way with open sea travel. You will captain your ship along the Caribbean sea and also experience multiple islands and cities on foot. The freedom you have in this game is just amazing, you can board other ships and steal their loot the way pirates do, you can also harpoon sharks and whales, travel underwater for loot, attack forts and take them for yourself, you can leave your ship while your in the middle of the water and just swim around if you want. Remember that it is an Assassins Creed game so their will be plenty of ground exploring as well. So if you want to be a pirate with an Assassins Creed fighting style and outfit, then you are going to have a blast, however if you have no interest in being a pirate or traveling the seas you don't have to stress about buying this game immediately. But do check it out if you would like to follow the story. Expand
  74. Jan 16, 2014
    9
    This game for me is the game of the year. It was deep, rewarding, fun, and encouraged exploration. The characters are great and the progression is well paced. The only issue I have is the storyline not being particularly consistent. The main character is great well designed, however some of the other characters don't seem as though they were fleshed out very well. This is something thatThis game for me is the game of the year. It was deep, rewarding, fun, and encouraged exploration. The characters are great and the progression is well paced. The only issue I have is the storyline not being particularly consistent. The main character is great well designed, however some of the other characters don't seem as though they were fleshed out very well. This is something that Ubisoft has had a problem with in all the other games. In terms of overall game-play and depth of experience, I loved this game, but in terms of storyline, AC 2 was much better. That being said, its dynamic naval combat, settings, fun gameplay and good enough storyline makes it a game that it is worth spending money on. Expand
  75. Jan 13, 2014
    9
    This is the best Assassin's Creed game, with number 2 as a very close second. The combat was kind of similar to the Batman: Arkham series or like Ryse: Son of Rome or even Sleeping Dogs in a way, it flows smoothly and amazingly. Ubisoft wanted to be so authentic that they added infamous pirates like Blackbeard (Ed Thatch), Charles Vane, Stede Bonnet, Jack Rackham, Mary Read, and much,This is the best Assassin's Creed game, with number 2 as a very close second. The combat was kind of similar to the Batman: Arkham series or like Ryse: Son of Rome or even Sleeping Dogs in a way, it flows smoothly and amazingly. Ubisoft wanted to be so authentic that they added infamous pirates like Blackbeard (Ed Thatch), Charles Vane, Stede Bonnet, Jack Rackham, Mary Read, and much, much more. It has the most gameplay packed with the game than any of the other games I believe. Apart from a few glitches and pop-ins it is in my top 5 or even top 3 games of the generation. Expand
  76. Jan 12, 2014
    9
    Here is my pro/con review of Assassin's Creed IV

    Pros: - Edward is in my opinion, almost better than Ezio as a protagonist - The graphics are really spectacular on any system you choose - This game is filled to the brim with side activities, I spent 15-20 hours in the first set of places to explore. And there are three sets of places to go to. They range in difficulty from Easy, to
    Here is my pro/con review of Assassin's Creed IV

    Pros:

    - Edward is in my opinion, almost better than Ezio as a protagonist
    - The graphics are really spectacular on any system you choose
    - This game is filled to the brim with side activities, I spent 15-20 hours in the first set of places to explore. And there are three sets of places to go to. They range in difficulty from Easy, to Medium, and finally to Hard.
    - The ship battles are freaking epic
    - This game really reminds me of Far Cry 3, and that is a really good thing. Everything from the music (which is made by the same composer.) to the side activities are really FC3-esque.
    - The side characters are good
    - The controls, most of the time are excellent
    - The ground combat is REALLY improved over AC3, and is just really fun this time around
    - Finally I can free-aim with my pistol!
    - Going back to the side activities, I almost forgot to mention that almost all are really fun
    - Pirate shanties are fun
    - I did not play the multiplayer yet, but I am pretty sure that it is fun too.

    Cons:

    - You know when I said that the controls are mostly good, when they are not working well you might rip your hair out
    - Even though I REALLY like this game, I fear for the future of this series. Since it is probably going to suffer from Call of Duty syndrome
    - It can get boring sometimes, but only on rare occasions

    After all of that, I actually might think that this should have at least been nominated for Game of The Year
    don't get me wrong, I am really happy that GTA V won, I freaking love that game too, but I just had more fun with this game overall. So if you love pirates, and love Assassin's Creed, then you will absolutely love this game.
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  77. Jan 11, 2014
    10
    I put a lot of money in this game including paying for the $120 version, so I took a high risk and I don't regret it. I thought the game was really fun and made me want to explore the world and the ship mechanics were better than the last game, and this game had a lot of feel to it. even though I was disappointed in Edwards origin story I still enjoyed it and I will play it again and again.
  78. Jan 11, 2014
    9
    Easily the funnest game in the series. Feels like a fleshed out next gen Sid Meier's Pirate's, which to any right minded soul, would be the greatest game EVER!!!! Of course it suffers from minor bugs and glitches any game, but these do little to distract from the sheer awesome of sailing the HIGH seas.
  79. Jan 7, 2014
    8
    Let just give a quick review on the game. A lot of aspects are repeated from earlier games, such as mostly the same combat, but I feel that a lot of new features were added that almost freshen it up. Assassins Creed 4 is a good game, maybe even a great one, but there aren't enough changes done and new features added to make it really great. Also the story could have been better. It wasn'tLet just give a quick review on the game. A lot of aspects are repeated from earlier games, such as mostly the same combat, but I feel that a lot of new features were added that almost freshen it up. Assassins Creed 4 is a good game, maybe even a great one, but there aren't enough changes done and new features added to make it really great. Also the story could have been better. It wasn't terrible but their were many boring parts, then occasionally it would draw me back in. Overall I think I over hyped it, and expected to much, but new features make it very much deserving of my time. Expand
  80. Jan 2, 2014
    8
    i major step in the right direction for the assassins creed franchise. finally a game that emphasizes exploration and discovery. The game really makes you feel as if you are a pirate searching for loot and that greater sense of freedom. the locations around the game are interesting and despite being fairly similar are all unique and have a great sense of the Caribbean about them. the worldi major step in the right direction for the assassins creed franchise. finally a game that emphasizes exploration and discovery. The game really makes you feel as if you are a pirate searching for loot and that greater sense of freedom. the locations around the game are interesting and despite being fairly similar are all unique and have a great sense of the Caribbean about them. the world is filled with life as the locations offer many missions and side quests and other interesting things to see and do. The story is lacking in terms of sheer narrative however there is a few memorable moments and edward is a hugely different main character compared to connor, Ezio and Altair. The pirate dynamic also makes it by far the most interesting game in the series as the ship to ship combat and underwater exploration just add to an already solid list of things to do in an AC game. to go along with fantastic combat, hunting, huge cities to explore, sea shanties and other fun moments of exploration this game is well worth picking up and sinking 30 hours into Expand
  81. Jan 1, 2014
    10
    2nd best game of the decade.I loved the game as no other game till now has the given the whole pirate life adventure except this one it can be the 2nd best in the series after revelations
  82. Dec 28, 2013
    9
    Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag is a beautiful game with amazing story
    It improves almost every problem of Assassin's Creed III and improves it in AC4. The game just a beautiful game from Cuba,Nassau,Kingston combat has also been improved just by a little having a pirate theme makes the game even better. the pirate theme has Ubisoft putting famous characters in the game like
    Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag is a beautiful game with amazing story
    It improves almost every problem of Assassin's Creed III and improves it in AC4. The game just a beautiful game from Cuba,Nassau,Kingston combat has also been improved just by a little having a pirate theme makes the game even better. the pirate theme has Ubisoft putting famous characters in the game like
    BlackBeard,Captain Kidd. the only problem i have with the game is the present day story some parts felt dull and boring but thats only one problem overall this game is amazing and has a strong story i give the game 9/10 i haven't even talked about the pirate ship combat!
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  83. Dec 27, 2013
    9
    The epic comeback of the series. When Conner kenway thought he ruined the saga. Edward saves the day with the kick butt ac4. The online was as great as last time and very good.
  84. Dec 26, 2013
    10
    This is everything you want out of an Assassin's Creed game. The visuals are stunning plus the gameplay is flawless. From exploring the high Caribbean seas to hunting the many islands for treasure. The depth of the game is almost unmatched and the freedom of being able to just go on your ship and plunder anything that flies by is one of the things you will love the most about this game.This is everything you want out of an Assassin's Creed game. The visuals are stunning plus the gameplay is flawless. From exploring the high Caribbean seas to hunting the many islands for treasure. The depth of the game is almost unmatched and the freedom of being able to just go on your ship and plunder anything that flies by is one of the things you will love the most about this game. Not to mention constantly taking down waves of Spanish soldiers one by one in Havana. Truly the best game in the series and one of the greatest of the year. Expand
  85. Dec 22, 2013
    9
    Assassins Creed 4 is a great addition to the series, the revamp of the game play gives it a new feel but the story keeps the game's identity. Black flag is the best in the series since AC2
  86. Dec 22, 2013
    9
    I have played all of the games in the assassin's creed series, and while I can't say its the best, it is certainly not as bad as ac 3. The gameplay and graphics are great on both the latest gens and the story line is twisted and contains a good transition from sequence to the other
  87. Dec 21, 2013
    9
    Best game since the Last of Us.

    Graphics are good, combat well designed giving you different options for you to do things, voice acting is great and characters like able and the world is more open than ever before and with the freedom you have to explore it makes Assassins creed 4 my 2nd favorite game this year.
  88. Dec 7, 2013
    9
    I love the game I played though it 2 times on my third time now a lore of things to explore and do the one thing is that he is not a assassin but that is forgettable the graphics are amazing and the story is great people saying it is a dlc of as3 Thay are a**holes
  89. Dec 5, 2013
    10
    Ac 4 is probably the best ac game in the series. A truly epic open world, bursting with things to do. While the story might be a little bit deferent from the previous installments, it's still enjoyable. The graphics are amazing, kinda like an enhanced version of Far Cry 3. The stealth segments have been greatly improved from ac 3. A must own for any pirate fan
  90. Dec 4, 2013
    10
    By far one of my favorite titles this year. The game looks gorgeous, is incredible to explore, the characters are great, and the naval bits are fantastic. I would recommend this game to absolutely anyone. I've been playing nonstop since I purchased it. I was up until 2 AM this morning playing!
  91. Nov 29, 2013
    10
    An overall truly great game. AC3 I thought was the worst in the series with a horrible main character but they definitely corrected that in AC4 with a more realistic likable character. The gameplay is definitely different than other AC games, with the main focus on the high seas. However, it is beautifully done and has a huge diverse open world that you can spend hour upon hour exploring.An overall truly great game. AC3 I thought was the worst in the series with a horrible main character but they definitely corrected that in AC4 with a more realistic likable character. The gameplay is definitely different than other AC games, with the main focus on the high seas. However, it is beautifully done and has a huge diverse open world that you can spend hour upon hour exploring. The only downside to this game at all is the story line is somewhat weaker than the rest of the series but it does continue from AC3 and makes up for it with all the extra gameplay you can do. Overall a 10/10 for me with one of the most enjoyable AC games so far for me. Expand
  92. Nov 27, 2013
    8
    Much to my surprise, I'm very much enjoying this game. I personally feel that the last good game in this series was AC2 and have been disappointed by the following chapters prior to AC4. Lots of complaints about the story not being as strong but I'm ok with that...it's toned down a bit and that's good b/c the story sometimes feels overly weighty when all you really want to do is playMuch to my surprise, I'm very much enjoying this game. I personally feel that the last good game in this series was AC2 and have been disappointed by the following chapters prior to AC4. Lots of complaints about the story not being as strong but I'm ok with that...it's toned down a bit and that's good b/c the story sometimes feels overly weighty when all you really want to do is play loose and fast. I will say that the naval battles and such do tend to get a bit monotonous after a bit but the world is quite bit and there are lots of things to explore. haven't tried the MP yet but plan to as soon as single player is complete. Expand
  93. Nov 27, 2013
    9
    I was disappointed by AC 3 and I haven't played AC2 or Brotherhood in a long time but for me, I think this is possiby the best entry in the franchise. The controls are fluid as ever, the graphics are fantastic and the gameplay is incredibly varied. Side missions in some Assassin's Creed games could be a real drag but in Black Flag it is very easy to change up the type of mission you areI was disappointed by AC 3 and I haven't played AC2 or Brotherhood in a long time but for me, I think this is possiby the best entry in the franchise. The controls are fluid as ever, the graphics are fantastic and the gameplay is incredibly varied. Side missions in some Assassin's Creed games could be a real drag but in Black Flag it is very easy to change up the type of mission you are doing.

    Some of the more tedious collectibles are actually worth getting such as the shanties as they pay off in game with more songs when you're sailing. The ship battles are great fun with the only draw back being that once you've raided/boarded enough ships, it does become tedious. Aside from that, they've simplified and improved the ship mechanics from AC3 and it really pays off. There are also the addition of 'Legendary Ships' if you really want a challenge that are hard enough to feel like an accomplishment but not so hard that it's frustrating if you have patience.

    The main story is quite varied. Depending on how you feel, there might be too many eavesdrop and follow quests but I never found myself bored. The optional mission constraints aren't unreasonable either.

    As far as characters go, Edward Kenway is probably my favourite assassin in the series so far. They put a slight twist on the normal way that the protagonist becomes an assassin but it actually makes Edward's assimilation in to the order much more naturalistic than some previous entries. He has the charm of Ezio but also has a fiery side to him. I've seen criticism for Edward saying that he lacks character development but I feel that by the end of the game you see a large difference not necessarily in his beliefs but in his maturity. In this sense he doesn't really develop but he certainly grows. The supporting cast is decent as well, with some nice voice acting from the other pirates (except for Kidd who irked me).

    The plot isn't fantastic but with the introduction of a new character and a new ancient technology, it could be interesting to see where they take it in future installments. The modern day aspect is different and sometimes it was a drag but some of the information you can find is quite interesting as well as an indication to some sort of future organisation if you can find all of a certain group of collectibles.

    The only negatives I have really is that I didn't enjoy the shipwreck side quests much fun. The underwater mechanics aren't ideal and the shark attacks make it quite tedious. I also felt that the last few missions seemed a little bit rushed. Could maybe have done with another couple of sequences.

    All in all, with plenty to do (assassin contracts, naval contracts, templar hunt, mayan stelae, treasure maps, ship upgrading, legendary ships, hunting, crafting, Kenway's fleet, etc), I think this is one of the best games I've played this year and one of the best in the series to date.
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  94. Nov 25, 2013
    9
    The last two Assassins's Creed games felt repetitive, and just like it's predecessors. Combat is generally the same, but the gun play is surprisingly refreshing. The levels and town are great, and they kept the hunting from Far Cry 3, I mean AC3. If you want to be a pirate and sail the seas, this is the game for you.
  95. Nov 22, 2013
    10
    "Ahoy, she blows" The Quartermaster shouts as the hurricane bellows down upon your small craft, the aptly named "Jack-Daw".
    Our Hero, a welsh pirate from Swansea manning the wheel, you push the craft high over the roaring waves, before crashing back down again. The whole motion of the sea seems real, the shouts of your men and the crackling of thunder actually makes me stare onwards,
    "Ahoy, she blows" The Quartermaster shouts as the hurricane bellows down upon your small craft, the aptly named "Jack-Daw".
    Our Hero, a welsh pirate from Swansea manning the wheel, you push the craft high over the roaring waves, before crashing back down again. The whole motion of the sea seems real, the shouts of your men and the crackling of thunder actually makes me stare onwards, smiling in amazement;- My wife keeps asking me to make her a cup of tea
    "NO!" i scream at her as another wave tear's over the deck, not only washing my poor crew-men away but damaging the ship as well.

    Like a cake at a fat kids party we battle on through the storm until eventually the storm clear's and the ocean's settle,

    "Neptune be begging our graves, captain" a man shouts,

    "No Davy Jones locker today" another replies

    We sail on towards an island in the distance, this is one of hundreds of locations across the map, as we sail my men begin singing old sea shanty songs, they sing of women and booze and treasure the songs sometimes get lost in the wind as we howl towards the island
    - and as we settle down to make repairs, I slip into the captains quarters to change my outfit back to the nice garments we stole from the stupid assassin.

    As i return moments later, something magical appear's on the GTA like radar?

    The White whale !!!!!!!

    My crew tell me its a beast from hell, urge me to harpoon it.

    Whale Hunting is legal in this century, so I gather some men and a small row boat and we head out to capture the beast,
    White Wale for dinner tonight boys?

    I cant go on writing this review any longer, sorry... I need to get back in what is no doubt THE GAME OF THE YEAR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    I can only describe this game as "Grand Theft Sid Miers Pirat'rim Creed" (The Rim is from Skyrim btw)

    Buy it buy it NOW
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  96. Nov 21, 2013
    9
    Based on my opinion the new "Assassins Creed Game" is awesome! lets start off the story is Good Edward Kenway is now officially my favorite assassin the combat is ok Naval missions are so extraordinary when you battle a ship and board it and take supplies or sent it to you're fleet you will want to keep battling ships again and again. Multiplayer is Ok it feels like the same OleBased on my opinion the new "Assassins Creed Game" is awesome! lets start off the story is Good Edward Kenway is now officially my favorite assassin the combat is ok Naval missions are so extraordinary when you battle a ship and board it and take supplies or sent it to you're fleet you will want to keep battling ships again and again. Multiplayer is Ok it feels like the same Ole multiplayer from the 3 previous assassins creed games.But what it boils down to is a great game with a few glitches here and there but definitely worth the 60$ you payed for it! Expand
  97. Nov 21, 2013
    9
    This is probably the greatest Assassin's Creed game i have ever played, bugs aside. The team at Ubisoft has created a huge open world, packed full with things to do. I normally don't find myself wandering around an Assassin's Creed game, because eventually i get bored, but the strong focus on exploration, plus the added bonus of the Jackdaw, have kept me greatly entertained.
  98. Nov 20, 2013
    10
    The ultimate AC game and the best pirate simulator out there, lol. Great graphics (current gen), great voice acting, great gameplay, and a huge open world that you can explore with your awesome pirate ship called the Jackdaw. Side missions and collectibles galore as well. Obviously any AC fan should pick this up. If you are not an AC fan, then become one.
  99. Nov 20, 2013
    10
    I played the game for only a few hours and I found that it was the most intriguing and appealing game in the franchise to date. The sea combat system is really well made. Can't wait for the Xbox One to come out so I can get the game for that.
  100. Nov 17, 2013
    10
    Amazing game! Best of the series by far! I love all the new features and additions.

    All that people have complained about from Ac3 has been fixed or improved. Can not even imagine how awesome the next gen versions are.
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 35
  2. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. Pelit (Finland)
    Mar 11, 2014
    92
    The sun, the waves, the smell of salt in the air. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag offers an amazing pirate adventure experience. [Nov 2013]
  2. Jan 3, 2014
    80
    Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is a game that feels locked between two worlds. Not only between to generations of consoles but between a run of the mill AC-game and an astonishing pirate game. It’s not only a well needed spark to the series as much it’s a redefining of it. Everything that is use is great and everything old feels like it should be thrown overboard. Try it regardless of your thoughts about earlier Assassin’s Creed games.
  3. X-ONE Magazine UK
    Dec 7, 2013
    80
    Black Flag tightens enough screws and adds enough cool new stuff to make it the best in ages. [Issue#105, p.79]