Ahoy, pirates! A significant change is on the horizon for the open waters of Sea of Thieves. Developer Rare has officially announced plans to introduce a new subscription service for the popular pirate adventure game, with a targeted launch window of early 2026.
The headline feature bundled into this upcoming premium offering is the long-requested ability to create custom servers. For veteran players weary of unpredictable encounters with rival crews or looking for a more controlled environment to sail with friends, this could represent a major shift in how the game is experienced.
Custom servers, as described by the developers, will function as a “private customisable sandbox.” This means players will have options to adjust settings such as loot distribution and enemy spawn rates, tailoring the game world to their specific desires. Furthermore, these private servers will support `Safer Seas Fleets`, allowing players to invite only their chosen companions, effectively offering an escape from the game`s signature emergent—and sometimes chaotic—player-vs-player interactions.
While the prospect of customized voyages and guaranteed friendly seas is enticing, Rare has not yet revealed the crucial details regarding the cost of this subscription service or outlined any additional benefits it may provide beyond the custom server functionality.
This announcement arrives during a notable period for Rare, following recent restructuring and project adjustments within Microsoft`s gaming division. However, in a recent community address, the focus was firmly on the health and future trajectory of Sea of Thieves, highlighting upcoming content rather than internal shifts.
Looking ahead, the developers offered glimpses into the game`s immediate future. Season 17 is set to introduce a new faction, The Smugglers` League, along with fresh loot and a more structured, monthly release cycle for new content. The first month will focus on the new faction, followed by a `heist` live event in the second month, and a refresh of the map`s Skeleton Forts in the third. A brief tease was also provided for Season 18, which will center around the perilous and volatile Devil`s Roar region of the game world.
In a move signaling a desire for more open dialogue with the community, Rare is also lifting the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) for its Insider Programme. This step is intended to be the beginning of greater transparency and more expansive conversations with players who test upcoming updates.
Ultimately, Sea of Thieves appears to be navigating towards a new chapter, offering players a premium option for a more controlled experience alongside the continued evolution of its free-to-play content structure. The introduction of custom servers, while requiring a separate investment, addresses a significant community request, suggesting Rare is committed to steering its pirate world forward, albeit through slightly different waters.
