Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Remake Reportedly Targets 2026 Release With Major Gameplay Changes

Assassin’s Creed Black Flag (Credit: Ubisoft)

Ubisoft is reportedly developing a remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, one of the most beloved entries in the franchise, with significant changes to its gameplay and story structure.

According to French outlet Jeux Vidéo Magazine, the remake is currently targeting an early 2026 release, though delays into late 2026 remain possible.

A Classic Returns, But With an RPG Twist

Released in 2013, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is widely remembered for its Caribbean setting, thrilling naval battles, and charismatic protagonist Edward Kenway. Fans have long requested a remake, but the latest reports suggest the new version won’t simply be a visual upgrade.

Instead, Ubisoft Singapore, supported by Ubisoft Belgrade and Bordeaux, is said to be steering the game toward the RPG mechanics seen in more recent titles like Assassin’s Creed Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla.

This means loot systems, gear stats, and an RPG-style combat design will replace the more choreographed fighting of the original. If you loved customizing your playstyle in the newer games, this might sound exciting. But if you were hoping for a faithful return to the original’s mechanics, it could feel like a big departure.

Story Adjustments and Content Additions

One of the most notable changes is the removal of the modern-day sequences that once connected Edward Kenway’s story to the larger Assassin’s Creed narrative. Instead, the remake will add several extra hours of pirate-era content. This includes material that never made it into the 2013 release, such as parts of Mary Read’s storyline.

For many players, that’s a double-edged sword. On the one hand, we’re getting more time with Edward and his pirate crew. On the other, some fans see the absence of the modern-day storyline as a loss of what tied the historical adventures to the broader Assassin’s Creed mythos.

Map and Exploration Upgrades

The map itself reportedly won’t expand in size, but Ubisoft is redesigning smaller islands to include richer side quests & exploration. Seamless transitions between ship and land are also on the way, meaning no more loading screens when docking or setting sail.

Additionally, Ubisoft is said to be reusing certain assets from Skull & Bones to reduce costs, though sources claim these won’t be noticeable in the final product. The game will run on Ubisoft’s updated Anvil engine, the same technology powering Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

A Reimagining, Not a Big-Budget Remake

It’s worth noting that Ubisoft reportedly doesn’t view this project as a massive, "Resident Evil 2 Remake"-style overhaul. Instead, it’s described as a "faithful reimagining" with modern updates. That approach could save development costs while still delivering the nostalgia fans crave.

Fans may recall earlier reports by MP1st that mentioned wildlife encounters, naval combat upgrades, and ship customization inspired by Skull & Bones. Those features could still be part of the remake.

Ubisoft has yet to formally announce the project, but between internal leaks, updates to the original Black Flag’s Steam page, and years of hints from voice actors and merchandise, the remake feels all but inevitable.

If the reported timeline holds, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Remake could be one of Ubisoft’s flagship releases in early 2026.