Skull and Bones, unfortunately, does not offer a single-player offline mode. It is designed as an "always-online" experience, meaning you require an internet connection to play, regardless of whether you choose to play alone or with others.
Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
No Single-Player Campaign: While the game features a primary storyline, it lacks a traditional single-player campaign that you can progress through offline. The narrative is interwoven with online elements and progression.
Always-Online Requirement: Skull and Bones requires a constant internet connection to access the game world, servers, and features. This includes playing solo, as the game world itself is hosted online.
Reasons for Online Focus: There are multiple possible reasons behind Ubisoft’s decision for an online-centric approach:
Live-service elements: The game incorporates aspects of live-service games, such as seasonal updates, microtransactions, and potentially evolving content, which often rely on online infrastructure.
Multiplayer focus: While technically playable solo, Skull and Bones seems designed with online multiplayer in mind, encouraging player interaction and competition, even in the open world.
Alternatives for Offline Gameplay:
If you’re looking for a pirate-themed game with a strong single-player experience and offline availability, here are some alternatives:
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag: While not solely focused on piracy, this action-adventure game from Ubisoft offers a substantial storyline and open world centered around Edward Kenway, a pirate captain. It can be played entirely offline after installation.
Sea of Thieves: This online action-adventure game emphasizes social interaction and cooperation, but it also allows for a solo experience with adjusted challenges. However, like Skull and Bones, it requires an internet connection.
Sid Meier’s Pirates!: This classic strategy game allows you to manage your own pirate empire, engaging in exploration, combat, and trade. It features a single-player campaign and can be played entirely offline.
Remember, while Skull and Bones might not offer an offline solo experience, other titles cater to similar interests and provide offline playability.