Released for the NES in 1991, this German-language version of the classic strategy adventure Pirates! brings the legendary open-world experience to the 8-bit console. Originally developed by MicroProse, players step into the role of a privateer navigating 17th-century Caribbean politics, shifting alliances, and treacherous waters. The gameplay seamlessly blends naval navigation, ship-to-ship combat, town trading, and intense sword duels as you build wealth, rescue lost family members, and earn a fearsome reputation on the high seas.
How to play
Your overarching objective is to amass wealth, land, and noble titles before your privateer is forced to retire. Navigate the overworld map using the D-pad to steer your ship and catch the wind. During combat and sword duels, the A and B buttons handle attacks, parries, and cannon fire, while Start opens your essential navigation menus. For browser play, these NES controls map to the arrow keys, with Z for A, X for B, and Enter for Start.
Tips
- Watch the wind: Your ship’s speed depends entirely on wind direction. Tacking against the wind takes significantly longer, draining your food supplies and tanking crew morale.
- Time your strikes: During sword duels, calculated parries and thrusts are much more effective than wild button-mashing. Watch your opponent’s weapon height to predict their attacks.
- Divide the plunder: A wealthy crew is a happy crew. When morale drops after a long, unprofitable voyage, stop at a friendly port to divide your accumulated gold and recruit fresh sailors before they mutiny.
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