Rank 11: Pirates of the Caribbean Online
Developer: Disney Online and SilverTree Media | Platform: PC | Release Date: October 31, 2007 | Payment Model: Restricted Free2Play with optional subscription for full access | Status: Shut down (September 19, 2013)
What do I need to know about the license? In Germany, we know this franchise better as “Pirates of the Caribbean,” which celebrated its rise in pop culture due to the rocket success of the eponymous film from 2003. The film, in turn, was based on an attraction in Disneyland that had already opened in 1967.
Following “Pirates of the Caribbean,” 4 more films were released, some of which crossed the magical billion mark worldwide. At least 14 games have now been released for the IP, along with books, comics, board games, and other attractions for the Disney parks.
The trailer for “Pirates of the Caribbean”:
What do I need to know about the game? The MMORPG for “Pirates of the Caribbean” was supposed to be released alongside the second movie in 2006 but had to be postponed multiple times. At launch, you encountered a fairly typical genre representative, for whom you had to create your own pirate. The main antagonist was the undead Captain Jolly Roger, who was out for revenge.
Since you experience an alternate timeline in the MMORPG, the developers enjoy a degree of freedom in their stories. Still, Star Trek Online lives strongly from its license. You gain access to well-known starship types, meet iconic characters from the universe, and face renowned antagonists like the Borg.
Frequently, the developers deliver well-written story campaigns that reference series or film content, and the respective actors lend their voices to their characters. In the current season, for example, Hugh, the leader of the Cooperative Borg, and Seven of Nine fight alongside you. For Star Trek fans, this is a must, despite some gameplay weaknesses. And this is also because it can be played wonderfully solo if desired.
