Category: Profession

Description: A pirate is no more than a seafaring Bandit. Pirates need boats and crews, so a solitary pirate is practically impossible.

Some pirates may have an arrangement where a government endorses their piracy. These arrangements are typically formalized by letters of marque. The pirates can attack the boats of other governments, but not the boats of the government endorsing them. These pirates are called privateers.

Combat Technique: A pirate fights much like an Bandit. If he can kill the enemy with ranged weapons (such as cannons) without actually fighting, so much the better. Pirates also have a reputation for using tactics similar to Swashbucklers.

Preferred Skills: Seafaring and navigation skills. Combat skills are also required. Pirate weapons usually include cutlasses, hooks, lassos, and nets. Ships may be equipped with cannons (or even better weapons) if the technology level is highe enough.

Benefit: See Outlaw. Privateers will have a safe haven with the government they work for.

Disadvantage: See Outlaw. On one hand, it may be a bit harder for the law to get at pirates because the pirates have boats. On the other hand, keeping the boat operational takes up most of the pirates' time. Privateers may have to give a percentage of their loot to the government endorsing them. Their government may also try to send them to war.

Fictional Examples: Blackbeard, Long John Silver

Real World Examples:

Appropriate For: Npcs or villains. Anyone for privateers. Pirates who are also Freedom Fighters are possible.