Featuring non-linear gameplay and four separate storylines, Sea Dogs puts you in command of your own ship and crew and lets you sail in search of untold riches and fame. You can choose to take quests and missions under the flags of the nautical powers of the day -- English, French or Spanish -- or go it alone as a cut-throat pirate. At any time during the game you can change allegiances and follow a fresh wind. The choices in Sea Dogs are endless, and all the decisions you make will have a profound effect on the way your adventure unfolds.
There are 20 customisable ships to choose from, from small boats to huge battleships. To expedite your enemies' trip to a watery grave, there is also a wide range of cannon and shot types to play with to send your rivals' sails up in flames. Hire officers to complement your abilities and increase your skills in sailing, fighting, trading and more. Increase your power further by hiring captains to sail under your flag and fight alongside you, where you have command of how and whom they attack.
Sea Dogs achieves full realism through changing weather conditions and various day and night lighting conditions. Authentic, busy towns act as a focal point for the game and are a hotbed of gossip where a shrewd skipper can gain useful information for future missions or conquests. As new islands are explored, you can create settlements, hire staff, search for treasure or sink rival ships.