Combining combat, nonlinear gameplay, and many RPG elements, Sea Dogs looks like it might be one of the bigger surprises when it is finally released later this year. There are 8 towns currently planned, in addition to the numerous islands and pirate colonies.
All different areas use the same engine, which pays a large attention to detail.
The sails billow in the wind, the water is translucent, and the towns are large, with dozens of buildings filling the horizon. Damage has very noticeable graphical effects, so holes will appear in the hull of ships, or in the sails, depending where you hit the enemy during combat. Real-time weather effects and day to night cycles are also included, so while you sail, a squall or storm by night may occur, making for some rough seas. Just watch out for the rocks. You have a choice of four sides to play for in the game.