Season 16 of Sea of Thieves is now live. It brings major gameplay updates, the official launch on Battle.net, and a fresh spotlight on the growing power of The Reaper’s Bones faction.
For the first time in the game, players can embark on Voyages directly for The Reaper’s Bones. They can team up with skeletons from the Order of Bone and Blade to recover lost relics and ancient knowledge. The season’s first Voyage, Search for Ancient Secrets, challenges players to uncover hidden sarcophagi. Confronting Ancient Phantoms and recovering the Skull of the Banished are also part of the challenge.
Undertaking these new Voyages isn’t without risk. Raising the Reaper’s Mark Flag is mandatory. This makes participating ships visible to all nearby crews and effectively places a bounty on their heads.
Other Gameplay Additions
Season 16 also introduces the portable Cannon of Rage, a weapon powered by the volatile Chest of Rage. The cannon can be moved and redeployed, but its overheating can result in explosive consequences, unless cooled quickly.
Emergent encounters have evolved as well. Skeletons from the Order of Bone and Blade can now be unearthed on islands and recruited for assistance. These companions help with puzzles, treasure digging, and transport, but are tied to the island where they’re found.
This update also marks the official release of Sea of Thieves on Battle.net. Following a beta and early access period, the game is now available. This expands the game’s reach to a new player base.
Looking ahead, Rare has teased further content for the season. A second Reaper’s Voyage, the addition of breakable seals on Reaper’s Chests, and the Followers of the Flame Voyage are planned for upcoming updates. These will explore new types of chests. They will also enlist more of Flameheart’s forces.
Season 16 brings new Commendations and cosmetics themed around The Reaper’s Bones. There are also 100 Renown levels and a new Plunder Pass featuring the Oyster’s Prize ship set and matching gear. The Pirate Emporium is refreshed with new items for purchase using Ancient Coins.
Sea of Thieves continues to evolve through free seasonal updates. With the Reapers at the forefront this time, players can expect a more aggressive and faction-focused direction on the seas in the months to come.
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