Sid Meier's Pirates!

Arriving on the PSP is Sid Meier's Pirates!, a terrific portable version of the PC/XB 360 favorite. What better way to start the summer than as a pirate captain sailing through the Caribbean pillaging, plunging and finding treasure? Pirates! makes a smooth transition to the PSP as the controls and environments were built specifically for the handheld console so that gamers don't suffer any awkward gameplay moments to detract from the overall game.

To get that pirate flavor just right, gamers are sent back to the 17th Century when pirates ruled the high seas and were feared far and wide. As the game starts, players sign up for a ship to captain before setting sail with the hopes of fame and fortune just on the horizon. In the quest to be richest and most famous Pirate around, gamers must explore various Caribbean islands for treasure, lost cities, and even a lost relative or two. Although, the quickest way to secure treasure is to act like a pirate, and chase down merchant ships and attack them until they give up the goods. Once the ship is crippled, climb on board and duel with the ship's captain for control of the ship and all it's cargo. After sending the previous captain overboard, its up to gamers to decide to take on any new crew members that might be needed, and whether to keep or blow up the ship. Even when a gamer's ship takes damage during canon battles, it can be fixed if there is enough money to pay for it. Plus, ships can be upgraded with better materials to sail faster, have more firepower or cut sharper turns out at sea (good for dodging cannonballs at a closer range). Treasure can also be found by getting information from various townspeople who can be the source of great clues and big prizes-especially the ladies. A few nice words and great dance moves often hit the right notes and good treasure information is often received from smitten ladies-including the governor's daughter. If sailing the seas as a dastardly and charming pirate looting the rich and finding treasure sounds fun, then Sid Meier's Pirates! is one to check out.