9.0 Presentation
Well-organized menus, options, and controls. Simplistic cutscenes become redundant, but the game's simplicity is part of its genius.
7.5 Graphics
This is not a graphic powerhouse, to be sure. Animations are mixed, load times are fast, and many scenes are often repeated.
8.0 Sound
Adventure-themed pirate music in its most simple and ever-so-slightly B-movie form. Silly, galant, extravagent, repetitive, they're all there.
9.5 Gameplay
The game's brilliance is how it ties every little thing -- fencing, dancing, ship attacks, gathering, plundering, marrying -- together. Addictive, distracting and time-consuming in all the best ways.
9.5 Lasting Appeal
First time through? It could last 15 or 25 hours, depending on how linearly you play. I've already beaten it twice, and I'm back for more. Plus, the added pirate mini-game is surprisingly good.
