'Sea of Thieves' release date, news: Insider Program launches; game to roll out on Xbox One and Windows 10 in early 2017

A promotional image for "Sea of Thieves" Facebook/SeaOfThievesGame

"Sea of Thieves" is an upcoming action-adventure game developed by Rare together with Microsoft Studios. The upcoming game will arrive on Xbox One and Windows 10 PC in early 2017, and the company has opened up an Insider Program that will give access to the game for its members.

The studio posted on the game's forum that lucky individuals will be able to play the early phase of the game for testing purposes. The selected gamers will be providing the development team vital information concerning the game by answering questionnaires and surveys. In return, they will receive a unique badge on the official forums, exclusive news, and updates on the game's progress. Interested individuals can register on the game's website.

Meanwhile, on another post, Mike Chapman, lead designer for Rare, shared some of the video game's new details due to the many questions asked by fans. He has pointed some details regarding the personal combat mechanism, as well as the different weapons available.

Chapman said, "The most important element to call out in terms of our general approach to combat is that Sea of Thieves is a game with guns and swords in it, but it's not a game all about guns and swords. We want Sea of Thieves to support different motivations and play styles, but when combat does occur, it should feel right for the pirate experience we're creating, while fully supporting the kinds of emergent encounters that can occur while out on a voyage."

One example that Chapman pointed out is the different stance that a player can have when holding a weapon, specifically, a gun. Players who are not actively pointing their guns to another player will put the barrel close to their body or point it upwards. This also reflects a friendly atmosphere. A hostile player, on the other hand, will be easily recognizable. They will be pointing their guns at another player.

"Sea of Thieves" is expected to arrive for the Xbox One and Windows PC by early 2017.

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.