The high-seas strategy genre is about to get a bold new contender. Rise of Piracy Early Access officially launches on February 24, 2026, bringing large-scale naval warfare, real-time strategy combat, and open-world sandbox progression to PC via Steam.
Published by legendary simulation brand MicroProse, Rise of Piracy blends third-person ship control with fleet management, diplomacy, and land-based RTS battles—all within a handcrafted maritime world.
Here’s everything you need to know before setting sail.
Rise of Piracy Early Access: From Lone Captain to Fleet Commander
In Rise of Piracy, players begin with a single ship and a small crew. From there, the journey unfolds across a vast network of islands, ports, and open waters.
Your goal? Build influence, expand your fleet, and dominate the seas.
The Rise of Piracy Early Access launch offers a fully playable campaign designed for replayability from day one. Whether you pursue diplomacy, trade empires, or outright naval domination, the sandbox structure ensures no two campaigns play the same.
Naval Warfare Meets Land-Based RTS Combat
One of the most ambitious features in Rise of Piracy Early Access is its seamless integration of naval and land combat within the same theater of war.
Players can expect:
- Large-scale naval engagements
- Real-time land-based RTS battles
- Strategic positioning across sea and shore
- Tactical fleet command
Unlike traditional naval sims, Rise of Piracy allows players to directly control their flagship in third-person while simultaneously managing broader strategic decisions.
Nine Factions and Dynamic Diplomacy
Rise of Piracy Early Access introduces nine distinct factions, each with:
- Trade networks
- Mission systems
- Diplomatic relationships
- Political consequences
Your decisions shape alliances and rivalries, creating a dynamic world that reacts to your growing power.
Engage in commerce, negotiate treaties, or provoke full-scale war—the choice is yours.
Fleet Building and Custom Playstyles
Progression is central to the Rise of Piracy Early Access experience. Players can:
- Recruit specialized crews
- Upgrade ships with enhanced capabilities
- Expand their fleet composition
- Choose multiple starting classes
- Experiment with varied strategic approaches
In addition to the main campaign, Early Access includes:
- 8 pre-made scenarios
- Custom battle options
- Multiple viable playstyles
This ensures both structured and sandbox experiences are available immediately at launch.
