Video Game Review. Sid Meier's Pirates

A Great Game for the Entire Family!!

This game is a massively updated version from the original version that was released in 1987. What I like about this game is that it is suitable for everyone 6 years of age and older. I think the only reason why the age of 6 is the lowest is because anyone younger may have trouble with the hand and eye coordination that is required to play the game.

Set back in the 1600s, the game starts out with a short movie that shows your character as a young boy sitting with his loving family during dinner. Suddenly a ruthless pirate and his mates crash in and take his family hostage. You (as the young boy) manage to escape. You then, choose to join a ship crew to sail the seas. On the vessel you and you shipmates are treated cruel. A mutiny develops and you and your mates take control of the ship. Now, YOU are the captain. It's time to choose your skill. Choose one that would be most useful for the line of work you choose.

This is where the game play begins. You and your crew sail the Caribbean in a small war ship. You are limited to how much crew and cargo you can have on the ship. You can be a trader or a notorious pirate. You sail the seas and visit the ports. Goveners offer you favors, land and rank for capturing or destroying the ships of their enemies. A visit to the local tavern, will enable you to hire more crew if you need them, hear the latest rumors from the bartender and barmaid of ships in the area carrying precious cargo and gold or a visit to the salesman in the corner who can sell you a treasure map, various tools, weapons and clothing to aid you in your travels or just some simple useful news of his recent visit to a local port. While you at the port, check out the trading post. You need to keep a supply of food for your crew or they will starve. You can pick that up at the trading post along with goods, luxuries, sugar, spice and more guns (cannons). Buy up some spice cheap and sell it at other ports where it may be fetching more money.