This may come as a disappointment to some, as it looks like the only way to guarantee the full Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is to purchase a new copy for the PS3/PS4.

The idea of using an Online Pass for online content is practically second-nature to most gamers; it’s typically required for online multi-player, DLC and access to any additional services (Uplay, Rockstar Social Club, Battlelog, etc.)…However, it has yet to be a requirement for single-player content- that’s where Assassin’s Creed IV steps in. ACIV features the ability to obtain and command a fleet of ships, akin to recruiting assassin’s in previous titles. While the feature is available in the single-player campaign, and missions including fleet gameplay can be played solo, other players can jump in and control ships via online multi-player; unless the user redeems the Uplay Passport code included with a new copy of ACIV, the entire gameplay feature cannot be accessed- whether playing multi-player, or single-player. An account with Uplay is not required for the Passport to work, as it acts like any other Online Pass or registration code [provided by physical PC games].

According to Gamespot, the Sony-exclusive content for Black Flag will remain exclusive to the PS3 and PS4 “indefinitely”, despite last week’s trailer revealing that the extra gameplay would simply be a “timed exclusive”. The Sony-exclusive content is roughly 60 min. of extra gameplay following shortly after the events of ACIII: Liberation, featuring protagonist Aveline de Grandpré.

….Ironically, ACIII: Liberation HD will release for PS3, 360 and PC.

Sources: GameInformer, Gamespot
Image courtesy of Ubisoft