If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the high seas, clashing swords with rival pirates, and firing off a flintlock pistol with a satisfying bang, then Crosswind might just be the pirate game you’ve been waiting for. Although we don’t have a release date yet, this game has been making waves with its recent gameplay footage.
A Basic Combat System but it looks like fun!
While relatively straightforward in its current form, the combat delivers a surprisingly engaging experience. Drawing inspiration from soulslike mechanics, the game breaks away from the tab-targeting and auto-triggered abilities of traditional MMOs, opting instead for a more deliberate action based approach. Think dodge rolls, well-timed parries, and strategic buff management—elements that give combat a tactile, rewarding feel. The gameplay clip showcasing the first boss fight against “The Bosun” gives us a solid look at what players can expect, and it’s clear that even in its early stages, Crosswind is aiming for combat that’s both accessible and enjoyable.
The Flintlock Pistol: A Star of the Show
Let’s talk about the real showstopper: the flintlock pistol. If there’s one thing Crosswind nails right out of the gate, it’s the look and sound of this iconic pirate weapon. The pistol’s design just looks good, from its sleek barrel to the satisfying click of the hammer. But it’s the sound that steals the spotlight—a deep, resonant boom, making every shot feel weighty and impactful.
A Sword That’s Part Rapier, Part Cutlass, All Fun
No pirate game would be complete without a trusty blade, and Crosswind delivers with a sword that looks like either a rapier or a cutlass. Whether you’re parrying an opponent’s strike or landing a decisive blow, the sword looks like it will be enjoyable too.
The gameplay video highlights the sword’s versatility as the player carves through a group of pirates on a lush, tropical island. The combat is fast-paced yet strategic, requiring players to time their attacks and dodges carefully. It’s clear that the developers are aiming to make melee combat a cornerstone of the Crosswind experience, and the sword’s design is a promising step in that direction.
The Bosun Boss Fight: Simple, Strategic, and Surprisingly Fun
The centerpiece of the recent gameplay footage is the boss fight against The Bosun, a pirate brute who wields a shattered ship’s mast like a club! The Bosun’s moveset is relatively basic—think heavy swings and area-of-effect explosions—but the fight still manages to feel strategic and engaging. Players need to stay on their toes, dodging the Bosun’s telegraphed attacks and finding openings to strike. The arena, littered with environmental hazards, adds an extra layer of challenge, forcing players to think about positioning as much as timing.
A World of Pirates and Possibilities
Before facing The Bosun, the gameplay footage shows the player battling through a group of pirates on a vibrant island, then delving into a cave to confront the boss.
What’s Next for Crosswind?
Crosswind has a lot to prove, especially in a genre where titles like Sea of Thieves and Skull and Bones have set high expectations (and occasional disappointments). But with its focus on survival, co-op gameplay, and a narrative-driven experience, it’s carving out a unique niche.
