Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is set during the early 18th century—what historians call the “Golden Age of Piracy.” You play as Edward Kenway, a brash, charismatic privateer-turned-pirate. Unlike previous protagonists (stoic Altair or revenge-driven Ezio), Edward isn’t interested in the centuries-old struggle between Assassins and Templars—at least not initially. His goal is simple: gold, glory, and a legendary observatory that promises unimaginable wealth.