The game was initially conceived of as a spin-off of the naval elements that were included in Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag; however, subsequent to its initial conception, it shifted its focus to become a standalone online pirate experience. This comes after the production team had been experiencing a great deal of delay at various points in time. Although the game received praise for its improved progression, loot systems, and ship combat, many players were left wishing for more traditional pirate roleplaying elements that were absent from the experience. This was the case despite the fact that the game received praise for its ship combat. During close quarters melee battles, it was no longer possible to directly board other ships. Additionally, it was no longer possible to freely explore colorful tropical islands on foot. This made it impossible for Skull and Bones to fulfill the desire to live out pirate fantasies in a way that was truly satisfying. Skull and Bones, on the other hand, became a surprisingly addicting online pirate experience when viewed through the appropriate lens, as was revealed by the beta version of the game. This was demonstrated to those individuals who were willing to have an open mind regarding the naval focused nature of the game.
 

In its most basic form, Skull and Bones is all about building and customizing pirate ships in order to engage in player versus player and player versus environment naval battles across treacherous waters.

These battles can take place while the player is battling other players or the environment. These enhancements not only make ships more lethal when operating in open waters, but they also make it possible to enter higher-level contested areas that offer more lucrative Skull and Bones weapons. This is because these enhancements make it possible for ships to enter these areas. With the assistance of well-timed cannon salvos and strategic sailing that takes advantage of weather conditions such as rolling waves, it is possible to turn the tide of even the most epic naval showdowns. This is because it is possible to turn the tide of the battle. The naval battles in Skull and Bones are transformed into exhilarating virtual playgrounds, giving players the opportunity to experience the thrill of commanding historic fighting ships. Damage control, navigating unpredictable weather, and targeting enemies that are being piloted by other pirates while they are maneuvering are some of the tasks that players are required to juggle while playing the game.

In addition, there are instances in which unforeseen occurrences take place, such as the harpooning of vessels that are attempting to escape or the ramming of adversaries in the process of violent storms. It is possible to easily consume a significant amount of time when engaging in activities such as assaulting strongholds and engaging in skirmishes in open water. The fact that each victory against opponents who are well-matched is extremely satisfying is a direct result of the skill that is required.

Skull and Bones is a video game that incorporates a substantial amount of SaB Items and progression. 

Accumulating wealth in order to continuously improve and advance one's navy is almost like playing a game in and of itself. This is because it is a game in and of itself. The level of dedication displayed by players is reflected in the fact that higher-tier ships inevitably become highly sought after visual accomplishments. Finding new blueprints for equipment is a constant process that can be accomplished through exploration or by purchasing items from the SaB store. These blueprints provide an almost infinite amount of potential for min-maxxing, which can be utilized to fine-tune different ship components such as hulls, weapons, and other components that have been crafted. The appearance of a fleet that is adequately equipped and goes through a gradual transformation over the course of dozens of hours gives the impression of a tangible legacy. This legacy is one that becomes more formidable as a result of careful resource management and the experience gained in combat. It is also possible to find a peculiarly relaxing quality in the manner in which Skull and Bones navigates open waters and handles ships. During the experience of setting sail in the midst of breathtaking tropical scenery, you will feel a sense of calm and relaxation as you gently pilot iconic pirate vessels across shimmering seas.

There is a zen-like pleasure that can be experienced simply by cruising the ocean blue and taking in the ambient sound design and beautiful seascapes that the game has to offer. 

This pleasure can be experienced outside of the context of combat. In between more intense moments, the experience of navigating iconic naval craft through jungles, past sandy shores, and over foamy breakers creates a tranquil atmosphere that is reminiscent of tourism. This atmosphere is also comparable to the feeling of being on vacation. This kind of calm sailing is a restorative alternative when thought about in comparison to the danger and excitement of raiding and player versus player combat. It gives the impression that players could continue to find unforced fun even after they have maximized their fleets, simply by taking pleasure in the act of piloting ships through vibrant aquatic environments. This is because it gives the impression that players cannot be forced to find fun.

Despite the fact that there is room for improvement, there is a great deal of potential there. 

Due to the fact that Skull and Bones is still in the process of being developed, it was only natural that the closed beta version of the game had some rough spots. Following the experience of playing games with seamless transitions, it took some time for me to become accustomed to the loading screens that appeared in between major actions that took place within the game. For those individuals who were willing to experience the game primarily as a naval warfare game rather than as a full pirate sandbox, the beta version of Skull and Bones offered a glimpse of a very promising online multiplayer adventure on the high seas. This information was provided to those individuals who were willing to play the game. There is a possibility, however, that it will never be able to satisfy all of the desires that come with living the pirate fantasy. It is possible that Skull and Bones will prove to be the pirate sandbox that gamers who are interested in the history of maritime travel, strategic ship-to-ship battles, and addictive skinner box gameplay have been searching for.

It was demonstrated in the beta version of the game that there are promising foundations that could lead to a significant amount of time being invested (pun intended) in the process of upgrading fleets and engaging in memorable naval skirmishes amidst the splendor of the tropical environment. As the virtual pirate experience for those individuals whose true love lies not in walking the plank but in commanding it, it is possible that Ubisoft's long-awaited Pirate sim will have favorable winds and following seas ahead of it. This is because the virtual pirate experience will be directed toward those individuals. This is due to the fact that the game is currently undergoing continuous quality assurance checks in preparation for its release.