Edward Kenway, protagonist of "Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag". Photo: AFP
Legendary pirate Blackbeard narrates the debut
trailer, introducing Kenway as "a fearsome dog" with a reputation for "fortune and adventure," and one who "fights like a devil dressed as a man."
But there's more to Captain Kenway than Val Kilmer good looks and piratical prowess: "Don't meddle in his private affairs, for there's more mystery to that man than even I dare ask," advises a grimacing Blackbeard.
Last year's "Assassin's Creed III" introduced maritime affairs to the series and, having gone down well with critics and players, "Black Flag" looks to expand on its seafaring theme.
The launch date has been set for October 29 in North America, October 31 in European regions, and November 1 in the UK, with PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U and PC confirmed.
A PlayStation 4 version is also in development, release date pending the console's own launch schedule, and an equivalent for the new Xbox is expected once Microsoft's 2013 successor is officially unveiled.