New Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Remake rumours suggest Ubisoft is adding RPG combat and a new storyline, targets 2026 release date
Multiple reports now suggest that Ubisoft is actively developing an Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Remake. First launched in October 2013, Black Flag is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the franchise thanks to its Caribbean setting, ship combat, and memorable protagonist Edward Kenway.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Remake earlier reports: engine overhaul and wildlife encounters
Back in October 2024, MP1ST reported that the Black Flag Remake would not only feature a graphical upgrade with Ubisoft’s updated Anvil engine but also expand gameplay with wildlife encounters. Similar mechanics have previously appeared in Assassin’s Creed Origins, Odyssey, Valhalla, and most recently in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
As per, MP1ST, the remake could build on the naval combat of the 2013 original by borrowing elements from Ubisoft’s live-service title Skull and Bones, such as ship customisation and expanded sea battles. At the time, the release window was rumoured to be late 2025.
Black Flag Remake New leaks: RPG systems, story changes, and timeline shift
A more detailed report from French outlet Jeux Vidéo Magazine (JVM), citing multiple anonymised internal Ubisoft sources, paints a clearer picture of where the project stands today. According to JVM:
- Ubisoft Singapore is leading development, supported by Ubisoft Belgrade and Bordeaux.
- The remake is currently targeting early 2026, with March mentioned, though delays into late 2026 remain possible.
- RPG mechanics such as loot, gear stats, and a tweaked combat system closer to Origins and Odyssey are being introduced.
- The present-day storyline is being cut, replaced with several hours of additional pirate-era content.
- No loading screens will separate sea and land exploration, modernising the experience.
- The map is being reworked to make smaller islands more engaging with side missions and activities.
- Some assets from Skull and Bones are being reused to reduce costs.
- The project is described as a reinterpretation rather than a full-scale remake on the level of Resident Evil 4 or Silent Hill 2.
Where things stand
If Ubisoft sticks to plan, the Black Flag Remake could become the publisher’s flagship release in early 2026. That said, internal sources cited by JVM caution that the game still has significant work left, meaning fans should be prepared for further delays.
For now, all signs point to Ubisoft modernising a beloved classic with RPG progression, seamless exploration, and new story content. Whether these changes will enhance or dilute what made Black Flag special in 2013 remains to be seen.
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