Despite the various leaks confirming the existence of upcoming Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, Ubisoft has today revealed some new information about the swashbuckling hero including a back story trailer and screenshots. In development for nearly two years, the game is being spearheaded by one of the veteran Assassin’s Creed teams in Ubisoft Montreal with support from Ubisoft studios in Annecy, Bucharest, Kiev, Quebec, Singapore and Sofia.

Set in the year 1715, Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag will tell the story of Edward Kenway, a young British man who falls from privateering for the Royal Navy into piracy as the war between the major Empires comes to an end. Centred around the Caribbean sea, the title will offer more than 50 unique locations where you can live the pirate life via hunting for treasure to killing off infamous Templar.

“With the new hero and new setting we are creating the boldest and most unique Assassin’s Creed game yet, while still respecting the pillars of the franchise that have made it such a fan favorite,” said Yves Guillemot, chief executive officer at Ubisoft. “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is based on a true, harsh and exciting part of a legendary era and will thrill longtime fans and newcomers alike.”

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag tells the story of Edward Kenway, a young British man with a thirst for danger and adventure, who falls from privateering for the Royal Navy into piracy as the war between the major Empires comes to an end. Edward is a fierce pirate and seasoned fighter who soon finds himself embroiled in the ancient war between Assassins and Templars. Set at the dawn of the 18th Century, the game features some of the most infamous pirates in history, such as Blackbeard and Charles Vane, and takes players on a journey throughout the West Indies during a turbulent and violent period of time later to become known as the Golden Age of Pirates.

Gameplay wise it looks like Ubisoft is sticking with the mechanics shown off in Assassin's Creed 3, however with an obvious evolution to the system which will include varied weaponry based off the pirating theme. The title will also include the series’ multiplayer experience.

Ubisoft has also revealed that the game will be feature-heavy on the naval combat showcased in Assassin's Creed 3, with players able to command the Jackdaw ship to pillage and plunder. Players will also find the chance to stand amongst legendary names such as Blackbeard, Calico Jack and Benjamin Hornigold, as you establish a lawless Republic in the Bahamas and relive the truly explosive events that defined the Golden Age of Piracy.

An internal Q&A (All Games Beta) with creative director Jean Guesdon has also revealed that main protagonist Desmond Miles will not be in this latest title, however will still be referred to "as a very important legacy of the AC universe." Guesdon has also revealed that Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is not a "not a reboot, neither is it a spinoff and we’re continuing to develop a consistent mythology."

The Q&A also delved into the gameplay aspects that the Assassin's Creed title will be bringing to the table, including various mixtures of naval and land combat. Stealth will also be making a comeback as we previously saw the last few titles drift away from encouraging sneaking, with infiltrations, tails and exploration of islands being part of the sneaking aspect. Guesdon revealed that "land missions will represent approximately 60% of the game and naval ones 40%" however also stated that players will leave feeling its more of a 50-50 experience. Improvements to ship controlling and navigating were also mentioned, including a full revision of the ocean physics system to deliver a more unique and realistic feel.

In AC3 the combat system was mostly about timing your shot, now in ACIVBF we have a trajectory based aiming system where the player is challenged on reading the distance and speed of the enemy to get that perfect hit. This is the most basic element of the combat system. We have 5 new weapons that all have their own unique functions and attributes. This is further enhanced and given more depth with 6 unique AI Behaviors that challenge and put pressure on the player to master the system.

Guesdon also revealed that Edward will be using dual swords and multi-pistols, but will also be given a blowpipe with multiple effect darts, the double hidden blades (AC classic) and is able to use all the weapons enemies carry (Rifles, single sword, knives and Heavy Axe). The Rope Dart will also be making a comeback.

You can check out the handful of screenshots revealed below (more at our game page), showcasing what to expect in-game including the infamous Blackbeard. You can also check out a new trailer revealing the origins of Edward Kenway, a "pirate trained by assassins."

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag will be released on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii U, PC and other next generation consoles. The game will be available on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii U on October 29, 2013. Customers who purchase Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag on PlayStation 3 or PlayStation 4 can download 60 minutes of additional gameplay via the PlayStation Network after the game’s launch.