Skull and Bones: 7 Reasons to Be Excited for Year 2

To say Skull and Bones had a turbulent launch would be an understatement. From its infamous "AAAA" game expectations to numerous delays and reworks, Ubisoft's pirate adventure faced rough waters. But now, after the recent Year 2 Showcase, it looks like the tide is finally turning. Whether you're a seasoned corsair or a curious newcomer, here are 7 compelling reasons to check out Skull and Bones in its second year.

1. It's Free to Try - With Progression That Carries Over

Now's the perfect time to test the waters. Skull and Bones is offering a free trial for up to 6 hours across Ubisoft Connect, Epic Games Store, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Even better, it supports cross-play and cross-progression, allowing you to team up with friends on any platform and continue your journey no matter where you play. And yes, any progress or items earned during the trial carry over if you buy the full game.

2. "Ascent Into Chaos" Season is Live

The new Season 1: Ascent Into Chaos officially launched on April 15, ushering in fresh content and a renewed focus on narrative tension. This season introduces an arms race between mega-corporations teetering on the brink of war in the Indian Ocean. Expect high-stakes missions, new challenges, and escalating conflict. After a short maintenance window, players can dive right into the chaos.

3. Land Combat is Finally Coming

The absence of land combat was a major criticism at launch, but that's changing in Season 3. The upcoming land combat system takes inspiration from Ubisoft's own Assassin's Creed, and it already looks promising based on the footage shown. Soon, boarding ships won't be the only way to fight-players can engage in ground skirmishes that add a new layer of depth to pirate warfare.

4. Customize Gear with Item Ascensions

Introducing Item Ascensions-a new system that allows players to enhance their gear with buffs and improved stats. This feature provides deeper customization for your playstyle, letting you forge your perfect loadout. From speed-focused builds to all-out firepower, the system adds significant replay value for gear hunters and PvP enthusiasts alike.

5. New PvP Mode: Death Tide

Ubisoft is expanding the competitive multiplayer landscape with the addition of Death Tide, a team-based PvP mode set to debut mid-season. Players battle over control points across four maps in strategic, objective-driven naval warfare. Victory earns valuable rewards and XP-perfect for those who crave high-stakes combat against fellow pirates.

6. The Mighty Frigate Sets Sail in Season 2

Ship variety is central to Skull and Bones, and fans have been demanding larger vessels. Ubisoft delivers with the Frigate-a massive ship boasting 38 gun ports and unmatched battlefield presence. Though it won't be available until Season 2, its announcement signals a growing ship roster and more dynamic gameplay in the months ahead.

7. Revamped World Tiers Add Challenge and Reward

Live-service veterans will be familiar with World Tiers, and Ubisoft is finally revamping this system. World Tier 2: Cutthroat Seas offers tougher enemies but also better loot and crafting materials. To unlock it, you'll need to reach Kingpin Infamy Tier and complete the World Ascension Infamy Quest. This gives endgame players something meaningful to chase while keeping progression exciting.

Final Thoughts

Ubisoft is showing a real commitment to turning Skull and Bones into a rewarding and feature-rich live service experience. With land combat, bigger ships, enhanced gear systems, and new PvP experiences, Year 2 is shaping up to be the game's biggest and boldest yet. Oh-and did we mention the Kraken is coming?

So raise anchor, load your cannons, and prepare to dominate the high seas. With free trials, new seasonal content, and exciting updates on the horizon, Skull and Bones may finally be the pirate game fans have been waiting for. And if you're looking to get a head start, make sure you're stocked up on Skull and Bones Silver and top-tier Skull and Bones items your next naval conquest could depend on it.