Bad news for fans of Disneys swashbuckling romp: Johnny Depps Jack Sparrow doesnt appear in the POTC video game. Neither do Orlando Blooms Will Turner, Keira Knightleys Elizabeth Swann nor Geoffrey Rushs Barbossa. Christ, it doesnt even make reference to the Disneyland ride that inspired the film in the first place!
Instead, its an unrelated role-playing quest where gamers take control of newcomer Nathaniel Hawk as he trades goods, explores the Caribbean archipelago and battles enemies on the high seas. The quest features an engaging open-ended structure where players choose their own destiny and become an honourable sea trader or a fearsome cutthroat, and the ship-to-ship combat sequences are thrilling and look fabulous.
However, getting past the robotic controls and clumsy swordplay requires the patience of a saint, meaning that few players will discover the treasures that POTC has to offer.