Earlier this month, Ubisoft teamed up with VICE to produce a three episode series that explored the real pirate legends that inspired the world of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. Needless to say, the series has been as entertaining as it has been educational. Now the final episode is finally here.
In the final episode of Rum, Guns and Gallows, VICE traveled to Port Royal, Jamaica to learn more about Calico Jack. Although not as ruthless as Charles Vane or as infamous as Blackbeard, Calico Jack left a sizable mark on history. His most famous exploit involved the capture of The Kingston – a large merchant vessel that he commanded for only three months.
Calico Jack is also credited with the popularization of the Jolly Roger, or the skull and cross bones. His design replaced the cross bones with swords and became instantly recognizable as his calling card. It was partially thanks to Calico Jack that the Jolly Roger has survived as a piratical symbol for as long as it has.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag launches on October 29 for the PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii U. The PC, Xbox One and PS4 versions all launch later in November.
[Image: AssassinsCreed/YouTube]