This was supposed to be Ubisoft’s big return to the world of open-world action gaming. Presented as a AAAA gameambitious, immersive and evolving, Skull and Bones had everything to seduce. But upon its release in 2024, the game encountered a stormy sea of criticism, weighed down by bugs, content deemed repetitive, and a formula that has not completely found its direction.
A year later, Sony literally sold the game on the occasion of Black Friday: available for €5.99 on the PlayStation Storeit benefits from a reduction of 80% on its original price set at €29.99. An offer valid until December 2 at 2:59 a.m.Eastern Time. But one question remains: at this price, is it a good deal or yet another damp squib?
A generous pirate experience… but controversial
The pitch remains attractive on paper. “Immerse yourself in the perilous world of Skull and Bones, where you play by your own rules as you go from ordinary citizen to the most fearsome pirate leader.”
The game offers:
- of the dynamic naval battles,
- there custom ship building,
- of the online alliances with other players,
- and content regularly updated via seasons.
But behind this veneer, the feedback has been mixed. With a average rating of 59 on MetacriticSkull and Bones did not convince the specialized press. THE PS5 players give it 2.86 stars out of 538% of which give it just one star. The main criticism? A lack of depth, gameplay too focused on maritime confrontations and an uninviting progression loop.
The good PS5 plan for PlayStation Plus subscribers?
Before taking out the credit card, an interesting option is available to you: Skull and Bones is included in the PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium catalog. In other words, if you are already subscribed to one of these services, you can try the full game for free before deciding to buy it.
A good way to get an idea without risk, especially if you are hesitant to invest, even at a reduced price. “The game is currently available in the service’s game catalog,” the article states.
Verdict: at €6, should you get on board?
At this price, Skull and Bones almost becomes a curiosity. A massive game, from Ubisoft, offered for less than €6 during the holiday season: it’s hard to get cheaper for a multiplayer open world. For fans of pirate universes, the curious or PS Plus subscribers wishing to test without commitment, the offer may be worth the detour.
But for demanding players looking for a solid single-player experience, it’s best to keep in mind that the ship has a few leaks. It’s up to everyone to choose whether they want to go on board… or stay at the dock.