Blood & Gold: Caribbean!

Blood & Gold: Caribbean! is an open world action RPG. It transfers the gameplay mechanics of the popular Mount & Blade series to the 17th century reality, namely the so-called the golden age of piracy. Developed by Snowbird Games in cooperation with TaleWorlds (the creators of the original Mount & Blade), the game is an enhanced version of Caribbean! released at the beginning of 2015. The developers decided to introduce a number of novelties and changes suggested by the players themselves during the Early Access period as well as directly after the launch.

Story

The action takes place in the Caribbean Sea, which is considered to be a mecca for all kinds of pirates and evildoers that sail the 17th century waters. During the game, we assume the role of an adventurer who seeks his fortune in the new and not entirely charted world. We may join one of a few factions that determine the course of the story and the attitude of non-player characters towards the protagonist. However, Blood & Gold: Caribbean! is devoid of classical plot. Instead, it focuses on sandbox features and complete freedom of action. We may therefore undertake tons of various quests and activities and that way build our reputation in the New World.

Gameplay

The gameplay mechanics base on the solutions of the aforementioned Mount & Blade series to a large extent. We get to freely explore the game world that consists of Caribbean islands (Jamaica, Cuba, Panama) as well as the southern coast of North America. We visit villages and towns, hire crewmembers, trade, gather equipment and take various jobs. Since the action takes place largely at sea, Blood & Gold: Caribbean! does not lack for extensive system of fleet management and development as well as exciting naval battles. Furthermore, our deeds build the reputation of the protagonist, who can be either a lawful and just person or a fearsome scoundrel.

In comparison with the original Carribean!, the gameplay was enriched with a whole lot of novelties. At the request of the player community, the developers introduced the native Caribbean faction as well as the possibility to create a female character. A number of previously unavailable locations—such as plantations, mines, monasteries or Aztec village ruins—were also added. Moreover, there are new special jobs to take, including murder contracts that often require silent and careful action. Contrary to the original, we may now freely roam the cities and do all kinds of things in taverns, for example: play blackjack. The whole is complemented by an enhanced system of fleet and trade caravan management, completely remodeled land battle locations, as well as a number of minor modifications (for example: destructible fortifications and a new prison break system).

Game modes

Unlike Carribean!, which allows for solo play only, Blood & Gold: Caribbean! offers a previously unavailable multiplayer mode. Thanks to it, we meet not only AI-controlled NPCs in our travels, but also other players’ characters.

Technicalities

On the technical side, the game does not differ significantly from the original version. From among the introduced enhancements, the new 3D world map stands out especially. Blood & Gold: Caribbean!, similarly to its predecessor, is powered by an improved engine that was previously used in Mount & Blade: With Fire & Sword, among other titles. In connection with a large number of changes made in the gameplay mechanics, the game saves of Carribean! are not compatible with the new version.

Last updated on November 27, 2015