Play Pirates! (Germany) Online

Start with a rusty ship and a crew of misfits—you’ll spend your days chasing merchants, dodging navy ships, and gambling on whether that tavern map leads to gold or trouble. The clunky controls take some getting used to, but nothing beats the rush of boarding an enemy vessel.

Developer: Sid Meier

Genre: Action

Released: 1987

File size: 256 bytes

Game Overview

I first played Pirates! on the NES back in 1987, a game developed by Sid Meier and published by MicroProse. It was a time when the console was full of straightforward platformers and action games, so this open-ended pirate simulation really stood out. You weren't just following a set path; you were making your own story on the Caribbean Sea.

You control a pirate captain, starting with a small ship and a basic crew. Your main goal is to build your reputation and fortune by any means necessary, whether that's trading goods, hunting treasure, or outright plundering. Key mechanics include navigating the sea screen by screen, engaging in naval battles where you maneuver to broadside enemy ships, and sword fighting during boarding actions. The pacing is deliberate, with a lot of time spent sailing and managing your resources, and the difficulty comes from balancing your notoriety with the increasing attention from powerful navies. It feels like a true sandbox where every decision carries weight and consequence.