How to join the Skull and Bones closed beta

Three pirates surveying a small fleet of ships in Skull and Bones
Credit: Ubisoft

Three pirates surveying a small fleet of ships in Skull and Bones
Credit: Ubisoft

If you're wary of Skull and Bones, you're not alone. The game has gone through numerous delays since it was announced in 2017, and to help put your fears at ease, this guide will explain how to join the Skull and Bones closed beta.

Seeing is believing, so getting free access to the game in its current state is a great way to see if it'll be worth your money when it launches in early 2024. Even if you don't get selected, Ubisoft say that beta participants won't be restricted by non-disclosure agreements, so most content creators will be showing it off soon.

For more Skull and Bones without a trip to the local graveyard, check out our guides. We can tell you if the game is open world and share what you can expect from the combat mechanics.

 Skull and Bones key art depicting a pirate ship sailing past other burning vessels
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Credit: Ubisoft

How to join the Skull and Bones beta

To register for the Skull and Bones beta, you'll need to visit the official Ubisoft website. From there, choose a platform - Ubisoft Connect PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X / S, or Epic Games Store. It's worth noting that you can only sign up for one platform's beta test, but can always change your preference later.

After choosing a platform, click 'register', and log in with your Ubisoft Connect account details. An account is needed, but you can log in with a PlayStation, Xbox, Twitch or Facebook account as an alternative.

If chosen, you'll get an email in the near future and can start pre-loading on the dates shown below. You will also be able to invite two friends by clicking the 'invite my friends' button in the confirmation email.

Pre-load information for Skull and Bones. All territories can begin pre-loading the game on December 12th.
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Credit: Ubisoft

The beta is set to take place from the 15th to the 18th of December 2023. Early access is also given to premium edition players, beginning on February 13, 2024, three days before the game launches for the rest of the world.

Before you rush off to commandeer your ship, learn what else 2024 has in store for gamers by reading up on the Overwatch 2 roadmap, terrifying expansions coming to Alan Wake 2, and everything we know about Zenless Zone Zero.