Summary
For a limited time, Ubisoft will be giving gamers a chance to playSkull and Bonesfor free as it rolls out the game’s second season.Skull and BonesSeason 2 promises even more sea-faring shenanigans, and the free trial will allow players to dip their toes into Ubisoft’s newest pirate game without having to pay the “quadruple-A” price.
Initially announced back in 2017,Skull and Bonessaw its fair share of complications while in development. Ubisoft’s plans for the game changed multiple times, withSkull and Bonesintended to be wildly different games at various points in time. Following its full release on July 11, 2025, the game continues to remain in choppy waters, withSkull and Bonesgarnering not-so-favorable reviews from players and critics alike. Not long after its release, it was reported thatSkull and Boneshad a very low Metacritic score.

The upcomingSkull and Bonesfree trial period is set to take place from May 30 through June 6.As reported by Pure Xbox, the free trial will offer players unlimited access to all of the game’s available content and will be accessible toSkull and Bonesplayers on all platforms. Season 2 is set to launch on May 28, meaning players taking part in the free trial will have access to Season 2’s new storyline, foes, and upgrades.
Skull and Bones Will Soon Be Free to Play for a Limited Time
This isn’t the first time Ubisoft has madeSkull and Bonesavailable to play for free. Prior to the full release of the game, players were able to testSkull and Bonesvia open beta in early February 2024 and carry over their progress upon full release. Following the launch ofSkull and BonesSeason 1,Ubisoft announced a record number of daily players. Due to players’ access to the open beta at that time, it is uncertain how that reflected in its opening sales data.
Skull and Bonesspringboarded off the success of Ubisoft’s first foray into piracy,Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag, a title that remains much-loved within the franchise for its naval combat. As Ubisoft continues to expand on its 2024 plans forSkull and Bonesand offer free trials of gameplay alongside releases, the company seems to remain hopeful that interest in the game may eventually mirror that ofBlack Flag. Only time will tell if player engagement remains consistent, and if Ubisoft’s strategy forSkull and Bonesis a successful one.
Skull and Bones
WHERE TO PLAY
Set sail into the vibrant open world of Skull and Bones, a naval online action RPG where you rise to become the most fearsome pirate kingpin.ENGAGE IN SPECTACULAR NAVAL COMBATPrepare for devastating battles by crafting a dozen different ships and equip your fleet with powerful loadouts. Unlock stronger weapons as you progress and customize your ships to reflect your unique pirate playstyle.SAIL INTO A DANGEROUS HELL IN PARADISEVoyage into the Indian Ocean and explore a vast open world teeming with cutthroat pirates, deadly sea monsters, supernatural threats, devastating storms, and more.TEAM UP WITH FELLOW PIRATESSail the lawless seas solo or team up with two friends or other players to partake in shareable contracts and rewards.ENJOY EVER-EVOLVING CONTENTEach season, face a brand-new legendary sea lord and discover fresh content, limitless endgame opportunities, and new exciting features designed to enhance your pirate experience.