Pirates of the Caribbean Online

First Impressions

by Jeff Woleslagle

Johnny Depp in heavy mascara starring in a light, humorous take on the swarthy side of the age of sail – this was about all we knew of Pirates of the Caribbean upon arriving at E3. It turns out that development of the newest MMO from the folks at Disney Online / Buena Vista Entertainment is well underway (the Pirates of the Caribbean Online booth has a playable demo), and is in fact headed for a 2007 release. Best of all, it looks like a lot of fun.

Darrel Giors of Buena Vista Entertainment showed us how pirates start their nefarious careers by shaping their landlubber looks with a unique take on character creation. Since Disney is gearing PotCO to an audience both young and old, your combination of nickname, first name, and surname are chosen from a list, e.g. “Gentleman Jack Roberts” (players can submit names of their choosing for approval, too). No pirate would be complete without scars, tattoos, and earrings, though they’re earned later on.

Pirate Banner

The tutorial includes none other than Jack Sparrow busting you out of a naval prison, and the stage is set. Steve Parkis, Disney Online VP of Premium Products explained that combat is totally action-oriented, complete with targeting reticule. You’ll set up combos with your handy saber, or engage from afar with a trusty pistol, earning points in each combat discipline in the process.