Yes, I weakened again. I installed Pirates! and had a look. Just a teensy tiny little look. Just to see what it was like you understand. Not to PLAY it or NEthing. Not to get wrapped up in it or NEthing. Just to have a look. A look that lasted somewhere around 7 HOURS! :P

It's just like I remember both of the previous versions of the game, and yet so much BETTER at the same time. I mean, you get in a ship and sail around wreaking havoc. I've gone Pirate hunting and found (and beaten, and then stolen the ships of) most of 'em. I've dug up some buried treasure, I've wooed some fair (and not so fair) maidens. I've sacked some towns, and installed some new Governors. I've hunted down some common Pirates, I've fought the Spanish. I've fought many a swordfight and danced with many a maiden. I've become the most feared pirate in the Caribbean. I've tracked down some information about lost siblings, fought (and beaten) my Nemesis - the evil Marquis de Montalbain. I've fought battles on land and sea. I've been made a Duke in nearly all the major power groups in the game. I've found items weird and wonderful, I've snuck into towns, and I've sailed the length and breadth of the Caribbean.

In short, I've had some fun. I'd forgotten how much fun an open-ended game could be. It might sound like I've done most of what you can, but I still haven't found ALL the buried treasures, or any of my lost family, or Montalbain's secret hideout. I haven't gotten married at all, and there's still a Top Ten Pirate out there I haven't hunted down and removed from being my competition. I've still got a way to go before I'm happy to restart again, but I'm enjoying the ride just the same. :D

If you haven't played either of the previous versions, then I suggest you experience Pirates! in it's newest incarnation and have a blast. In fact, even if you HAVE played them previously, I suggest you get this game and have a go. In fact, just GET IT, willya? :P