The highly anticipated release of Assassin's Creed IV is almost upon us, and gamers worldwide are eagerly awaiting the chance to step into the shoes of Edward Kenway, a charismatic and skilled assassin in the Golden Age of Piracy. This guide aims to provide you with all the essential information about the release date, platforms, and any pre-order bonuses to ensure you don't miss out on this epic adventure.

Official Release Date

The official release date for Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is October 29, 2013 in North America and November 1, 2013 in Europe. This highly anticipated title will be available for a variety of platforms, including:

• PlayStation 3
• Xbox 360
• Windows PC
• Wii U
• PlayStation 4 (launch title)
• Xbox One (launch title)

With the next-gen consoles, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, launching within a few weeks of Assassin's Creed IV's release, many players are curious about the enhanced features and improvements on these platforms. While the game will look and play incredibly well on current-gen consoles, the next-gen versions are expected to offer visual upgrades and potentially smoother gameplay.

Pre-Order Bonuses

Pre-ordering Assassin's Creed IV can grant you access to some exclusive content and bonuses. Here's a breakdown of the pre-order bonuses for each platform:

PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "A Pirate's Life for Kenway"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Customize your ship with unique items, including a pirate flag, a figurehead, and a ship livery.
• Adéwalé's Armor: Unlock this armor set inspired by Adéwalé, a prominent character from the Assassin's Creed III: Liberation game.

Xbox 360 and Xbox One

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "Blackbeard's Wrath"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Similar to the PlayStation version, this pack includes unique ship customization items.
• Animus Upgrade Pack: Enhance your animus experience with this pack, which offers increased combat, exploration, and stealth abilities.

Windows PC

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "The Hidden Mystery"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Similar to console versions, this pack allows you to customize your ship with unique items.
• Additional Single-Player Mission: "The Black Chest"

Wii U

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "The Siege of Fort de Sable"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Like other platforms, this pack lets you customize your ship with unique items.
• Exclusive Challenge Map: "The Battle of the Caribbean"

It's important to note that pre-order bonuses may vary depending on the retailer and region. Some retailers might offer additional incentives or exclusive items, so it's worth checking with your preferred store for the best deals.

Digital Pre-Orders

If you prefer digital copies, you can pre-order Assassin's Creed IV from various online stores. Here's a breakdown of the digital pre-order bonuses for each platform:

PlayStation Network (PSN)

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "A Pirate's Life for Kenway"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Same as the physical copy, allowing you to customize your ship.
• Exclusive Dynamic Theme: A unique PS3 theme inspired by Assassin's Creed IV.

Xbox Games Store

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "Blackbeard's Wrath"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Similar to the physical copy, this pack offers ship customization options.
• Exclusive Avatar Outfit: A unique avatar outfit inspired by the game.

Steam (Windows PC)

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "The Hidden Mystery"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Customize your ship with unique items.
• Additional Single-Player Mission: "The Black Chest"
• Digital Soundtrack: Access to the game's official soundtrack in digital format.

Next-Gen Pre-Orders

With the release of Assassin's Creed IV on next-gen consoles, there are additional pre-order bonuses to consider. Here's a breakdown:

PlayStation 4

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "A Pirate's Life for Kenway"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Similar to the PS3 version, this pack allows ship customization.
• Digital Artbook: Access to a digital artbook showcasing the game's stunning visuals.

Xbox One

• Exclusive Single-Player Mission: "Blackbeard's Wrath"
• Special Edition Ship Customization Pack: Same as the Xbox 360 version, offering ship customization.
• Digital Soundtrack: Access to the game's official soundtrack in digital format.

Special Editions

For those who want an even more immersive experience, Assassin's Creed IV offers special editions with additional content and collectibles. Here are the details:

Black Chest Edition

• The Game: Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
• The Black Chest: A beautifully crafted chest containing:
• A steelbook case with the game disc
• A lithograph featuring Edward Kenway
• An exclusive lithograph set
• A 20cm/8" tall hand-painted figurine of Edward Kenway

Freedom Edition

• The Game: Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
• The Freedom Figurine: A hand-painted, 30cm/12" tall figurine of Edward Kenway, including a parrot perched on his shoulder.
• The Freedom Edition Steelbook: A stylish steelbook case with the game disc.
• The Official Art Book: A hardcover art book showcasing the game's stunning visuals.
• The Freedom Edition Lithograph: An exclusive lithograph featuring Edward Kenway.
• The Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag Digital Soundtrack: Access to the game's official soundtrack in digital format.

System Requirements (PC)

If you're planning to play Assassin's Creed IV on your Windows PC, here are the minimum and recommended system requirements:

Minimum Requirements

• OS: Windows Vista SP2 or later
• Processor: Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 @ 2.66 GHz or AMD Phenom II X4 940 @ 3.0 GHz
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTS 450 or AMD Radeon HD 5770 (1024 MB VRAM with Shader Model 5.0)
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 30 GB available space

Recommended Requirements

• OS: Windows 7 SP1 or later
• Processor: Intel Core i5 2400S @ 2.5 GHz or AMD FX 6120 @ 3.6 GHz
• Memory: 6 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 or AMD Radeon HD 7870 (2048 MB VRAM with Shader Model 5.0)
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 30 GB available space

Please note that these requirements may vary slightly depending on your specific PC configuration and the settings you choose to play the game. It's always a good idea to check the official website or your preferred gaming platform's store page for the most up-to-date system requirements.

Gameplay and Features

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag promises an immersive open-world experience set in the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. Here are some key features to look forward to:

• Naval Warfare: Command your own ship, the Jackdaw, and engage in intense naval battles. Explore the vast open seas, hunt for treasure, and engage in ship-to-ship combat.
• Assassin's Creed Initiative: For the first time in the series, you can transfer your progress from the console version of Assassin's Creed IV to the PC version, allowing you to continue your journey seamlessly.
• Dynamic Weather System: Experience the beauty and danger of the Caribbean with a dynamic weather system that can affect your gameplay and navigation.
• Diverse Environments: Explore a wide range of environments, from lush tropical islands to bustling colonial cities, each with its unique challenges and secrets to uncover.
• New Abilities: Edward Kenway possesses a unique set of skills, including dual-wielding weapons and the ability to use the environment to his advantage, making for intense and strategic combat.

Multiplayer Modes

Assassin's Creed IV introduces an exciting multiplayer mode, allowing you to compete against other players in various game modes. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Wanted: Hunt down your target in a dynamic and evolving environment. Use your skills and stealth to stay hidden and eliminate your opponents.
• Capture the Flag: A classic multiplayer mode with a twist. Capture and defend flags while engaging in intense combat.
• Deathmatch: Engage in fast-paced and action-packed deathmatches, where the last player standing wins.
• Domination: Control key locations on the map and outmaneuver your opponents to secure victory.

Pre-Order and Release Date Summary

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is set to release on October 29, 2013 in North America and November 1, 2013 in Europe. Pre-ordering the game grants you access to exclusive content, including single-player missions, ship customization packs, and unique items for your in-game avatar. The game will be available on various platforms, including PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows PC, Wii U, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

Whether you're a fan of the Assassin's Creed series or a newcomer to the franchise, Assassin's Creed IV promises an epic adventure filled with swashbuckling action, naval combat, and a captivating story set in the Golden Age of Piracy. Mark your calendars, and get ready to set sail on an unforgettable journey with Edward Kenway.

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