Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag - Complete Walkthrough

Introduction

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is an action-adventure game set in the Golden Age of Piracy. You play as Edward Kenway, a Welsh pirate captain who becomes embroiled in the ancient conflict between the Assassins and Templars. This guide covers all main story missions, collectibles, ship upgrades, and legendary ship battles.

Before You Start

Before diving into the game, here are some essential tips to help you get started:

• Explore Freely: The open world of the Caribbean is vast - take time to explore islands, find hidden treasures, and upgrade your ship.
• Invest in Ship Upgrades: The Jackdaw is your most important tool. Prioritize upgrading cannons, hull strength, and storage capacity early.
• Collect Everything: Animus Fragments, Treasure Maps, and other collectibles are scattered throughout the world. They reward you with valuable upgrades and unlockables.
• Learn Naval Combat: Mastering ship-to-ship combat is essential for survival. Learn how to board enemy vessels and use different cannon types.

Sequence 1: The Beggar and the King

Memory 1: The High Seas

Start by following the on-screen tutorial. You'll learn the basics of ship navigation, sailing, and combat. Complete the initial objectives to reach Nassau.

Memory 2: Welcome to Nassau

Arrive in Nassau and meet the pirate crew. Follow the mission markers to complete the introductory quests. This is where you'll learn about the game's main mechanics.

Memory 3: The Hard Way

Complete the combat tutorial and learn how to use your hidden blades. This mission introduces you to the stealth mechanics and basic combat.

Sequence 2: The Sage

Memory 1: The Governor's Mansion

Travel to Havana and infiltrate the governor's mansion. Use stealth to avoid guards and complete the mission objectives.

Memory 2: The Sage

Meet the Sage and learn about the Observatory. This mission sets up the main plotline involving the First Civilization artifacts.

Memory 3: Escape Plan

Break out of prison and escape with the Sage. This mission involves a lot of combat and platforming.

Jackdaw Ship Upgrades Guide

The Jackdaw is your ship and home throughout the game. Upgrading it is crucial for surviving naval battles and exploring the Caribbean. Here's a breakdown of the most important upgrades:

Essential Upgrades (Prioritize First)

1. Cannon Upgrade: Increase firepower and range. Start with Medium Cannons.
2. Hull Armor: Improve ship durability. Critical for surviving legendary ship battles.
3. Storage Capacity: Carry more cargo and resources.
4. Sails: Improve speed and maneuverability.

Advanced Upgrades

• Heavy Cannons: Unlock later in the game for maximum firepower.
• Swivel Guns: Useful for close-quarters combat and disabling enemy masts.
• Depth Charge: Unlock for underwater exploration and attacking enemy ships from below.
• Ram: Improve boarding effectiveness.

Legendary Ships Strategy Guide

There are four legendary ships to defeat in Black Flag. Each requires a different strategy and a fully upgraded Jackdaw.

HMS Prince (Royal Navy)

Location: North Atlantic

Strategy: Use your heavy cannons to bombard the Prince from a distance. Avoid getting too close as it has powerful broadsides. Once its health is low, board the ship.

Royal Sovereign (Royal Navy)

Location: Caribbean Sea

Strategy: Focus on disabling its sails first, then circle around and attack from behind. Use your swivel guns to take out its crew.

HMS Fearless (Royal Navy)

Location: Gulf of Mexico

Strategy: This ship is fast and agile. Use your ramming ability to damage it, then quickly board before it escapes.

El Impoluto (Spanish Navy)

Location: Caribbean Sea

Strategy: The most challenging legendary ship. Use fire barrels to set it ablaze, then attack its weak points. Be prepared for a long battle.

All Treasure Map Locations

There are 12 treasure maps scattered throughout the Caribbean. Here are the locations:

Map 1: Great Inagua

Found in a chest on Great Inagua island. Leads to a treasure in the nearby waters.

Map 2: Nassau

Purchased from the local shop in Nassau. Leads to a hidden cave on an uncharted island.

Map 3: Havana

Obtained from a mission in Havana. The treasure is located in the city's underground tunnels.

Map 4: Kingston

Found in the governor's mansion. Leads to a treasure in the mountains above Kingston.

Tip: Always carry enough diving bells for underwater treasures. Some maps lead to shipwrecks that require diving.

Animus Fragments Locations

There are 100 Animus Fragments to collect for 100% completion. They are scattered across all major locations:

• Havana: 25 Fragments
• Nassau: 25 Fragments
• Kingston: 25 Fragments
• Sea Locations: 25 Fragments

Collecting all fragments unlocks exclusive content and helps with game completion.

Underwater Exploration Guide

Underwater exploration is a key feature of Black Flag. Here are some tips:

• Watch Your Air: Edward can only hold his breath for a limited time. Return to the surface before running out of air.
• Avoid Sharks: Sharks patrol underwater areas. Use your knife to defend yourself or distract them with bait.
• Collect Treasures: Shipwrecks contain valuable treasures and resources.
• Upgrade Diving Gear: Unlock upgrades to extend your diving time.