Sea of Thieves gameplay shows 5 ways Rare's pirate game is all about friendship on the high seas

The pirates of Sea of Thieves are dirty outlaws, sure, but they're not loners. At least not the successful ones. The latest development diary from Rare about its upcoming Xbox One and PC swashbuckling simulator is all about the many clever ways Sea of Thieves encourages you to work with your fellow swashbucklers.

If you have any love for gold, rum, and the open seas in your heart, Sea of Thieves should easily be one of your most anticipated games right now. Read on to see why it's shaping up to be one of the best multiplayer prospects in years.

Navigating the ocean

The map is below decks (so it doesn't get wet, I guess), which means somebody will need to shout directions up to the helmsman. Speaking of the wheel, it's tough to see where you're going behind those big masts, so everyone should call out rocks and other obstructions if they want to stay afloat.

Finding where X marks the spot

Once you reach land, whoever's carrying the treasure map - you did bring a treasure map, right - should probably be the chief navigator. But they aren't solely responsible for finding the way: with the press of a button they can hold out the map and show it to their crewmates for help finding buried treasure. Minimaps hadn't been invented yet back in the age of sail, obviously.

Digging up treasure

Many shovels make short work! And yes, the whole crew splits the treasure reward by default. I'd still keep your un-patched eye on any suspicious maties, though...

Protecting your booty

...just don't let ol' Shady Pete distract you from the real danger: rival sea dogs (i.e. other players who aren't in your crew) may be all too happy to run you through and steal your loot. Put together a unified defense and make them pry the treasure from your cold, scurvied hands.

Performing sea shanties

Because no one should ever have to shanty alone.

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