Games That Let You Play a Black Queer Pirate Captain

The gaming landscape has expanded to offer players an incredible variety of ways to represent themselves through deep character customization and inclusive narrative choices. Titles featuring nautical themes often provide the perfect backdrop for roleplaying as a Black queer pirate captain by combining ship management with personal storytelling. These games frequently use robust creation tools and open romance systems to ensure that player identity remains a central part of the experience. The following list highlights several games that allow for this specific and powerful combination of identity and leadership on the high seas.

‘Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire’ (2018)

Players take on the role of a Watcher who commands a ship and its crew across the dangerous Deadfire Archipelago. The deep character customization suite enables the creation of a Black protagonist with a variety of cultural backgrounds. Narrative choices and companion relationship mechanics allow the player to pursue queer romances throughout the journey. Managing a vessel and engaging in naval combat reinforces the role of a powerful seafaring leader. This roleplaying game provides extensive agency in both identity and leadership.

‘Sea of Thieves’ (2018)

The character creator in ‘Sea of Thieves’ allows players to cycle through a vast array of pirates with various skin tones and body types. Players can then customize their appearance with specific clothing sets and accessories that fit a pirate captain aesthetic. While the game lacks a formal romance system the social interactions and ship customization allow for a highly personalized identity. Sailing the high seas provides a sandbox environment where player identity is defined by action and visual expression. This title remains a popular choice for those seeking a communal pirate experience.

‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ (2023)

Players can design a protagonist with a wide range of diverse appearances and racial backgrounds including various Black features and hairstyles. By selecting the Sailor background and a roguish class players can effectively roleplay as a pirate captain throughout the narrative. The extensive romance system supports same sex relationships with various companions regardless of the player character gender. The game emphasizes player agency and provides numerous opportunities to lead a group while navigating maritime environments. This title offers a high level of detail for those wanting to craft a specific personal story.

‘GreedFall’ (2019)

In this roleplaying game players explore a remote island filled with magic and mystery while representing a merchant congregation. The character creation tools provide options for Black protagonists and a variety of historical seafaring outfits. Players can lead a crew of companions and engage in queer romances as they navigate political tensions. The focus on exploration and naval diplomacy allows the player to inhabit the role of a high ranking maritime authority. This game blends fantasy elements with traditional colonial era aesthetics.

‘Sunless Sea’ (2015)

This atmospheric game puts players in control of a steamship navigating a vast underground ocean known as the Unterzee. The character creation process allows players to choose their past and their appearance which includes options for Black captains. Narrative events and interactions with officers provide opportunities to express queer identities through text based choices. Survival and discovery are the primary goals as the captain manages their crew and their sanity. The game offers a dark and literary take on the seafaring genre.

‘Starfield’ (2023)

While set in space this game allows players to live the life of a pirate by joining the Crimson Fleet faction. The detailed character creator enables the creation of a Black protagonist with realistic features and diverse hair options. Players can command their own starships and engage in queer romances with various crew members and companions. Acting as a captain involves making difficult decisions that affect the entire crew and the political state of the galaxy. This title provides a futuristic interpretation of the pirate fantasy.

‘Divinity: Original Sin 2’ (2017)

Players can create a custom character with diverse racial features and select a background that aligns with seafaring or outlaw life. The game features a ship called the Lady Vengeance which serves as a mobile base for the player and their crew. All romance options in the game are available regardless of the player character gender or race. Managing the vessel and leading companions through a world of magic reinforces the captaincy theme. The deep tactical systems and narrative freedom support a wide range of roleplaying possibilities.

‘Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous’ (2021)

This expansive roleplaying game includes specific classes like the Shackles Corsair that are designed for pirate roleplay. Players can use the character creator to design a Black leader and choose from a variety of inclusive romance paths. The management of a crusade and various nautical themed quests allow the player to feel like a powerful commander. Narrative depth ensures that the player character identity is reflected in the world and its inhabitants. It offers a complex and rewarding experience for fans of tabletop inspired mechanics.

‘Skull and Bones’ (2024)

This multiplayer action game centers on the rise of a pirate captain in the Indian Ocean during the Golden Age of Piracy. The character creator allows for significant diversity in skin tone and facial structure to represent various ethnicities. While the game focuses more on naval combat than personal romance players can customize their outfits and ship to reflect their identity. The progression system rewards players for building a reputation as a fearsome and stylish leader of the seas. It provides a dedicated environment for those who want to live out a pirate fantasy.

‘The Sims 4’ (2014)

The robust character creation and life simulation tools in ‘The Sims 4’ allow for the creation of any specific identity. Players can dress their Sims in pirate costumes and live on a lot that features nautical architecture or even a ship. The game has always been inclusive of queer relationships and allows for diverse skin tones and hair textures. By focusing on the career and social life of the Sim players can roleplay the life of a captain. This title offers the most visual freedom for players to design their ideal world.

‘Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’ (2020)

Players take on the role of Eivor who can be customized to have a diverse appearance while leading a crew on a longship. The game includes various queer romance options that the player can pursue throughout their journey in England. Although the setting is Viking themed the mechanics of raiding and ship management are very similar to pirate gameplay. The ability to customize the ship and the settlement provides a sense of leadership and community. This title offers a gritty and action oriented take on maritime command.

‘Dragon Age: Inquisition’ (2014)

The character creator in ‘Dragon Age: Inquisition’ provides extensive options for Black protagonists to lead the Inquisition. Players can engage in various queer romances with a diverse cast of companions while managing their base of operations. The game features nautical themes through the presence of the pirate character Isabela and specific coastal regions. Acting as the Inquisitor gives the player the authority of a captain on a global scale. This roleplaying epic focuses heavily on the weight of leadership and personal identity.

‘The Outer Worlds’ (2019)

This science fiction roleplaying game allows players to captain a ship called the Unreliable and its diverse crew. The character creator supports the design of a Black protagonist who can navigate the corporate colonies as a space pirate. While the player character does not have traditional romance options they can support the queer relationships of their crew members. The dialogue system allows for the expression of a rebellious and independent personality. Players must make choices that define the future of the solar system while leading their team.

‘Sunless Skies’ (2019)

In this sequel to ‘Sunless Sea’ players captain a flying locomotive through the dangerous reaches of the High Wilderness. The game offers various portraits and backgrounds that allow for the representation of Black queer captains. Narrative encounters and officer stories provide a rich tapestry of inclusive storytelling. Managing resources and navigating celestial terrors requires a steady and capable leader. The Victorian gothic aesthetic is blended with cosmic horror to create a unique atmosphere for a captain.

‘Mass Effect Legendary Edition’ (2021)

Players command the SSV Normandy as Commander Shepard who can be customized as a Black leader with a range of features. The trilogy features several queer romance options that evolve over the course of the three games. As a captain the player makes galactic decisions that determine the fate of entire alien species. The crew management and ship upgrades reinforce the feeling of being a dedicated maritime or space commander. This collection provides one of the most iconic leadership stories in gaming history.

‘I Was a Teenage Exocolonist’ (2022)

This narrative driven life simulation game allows players to grow up on a foreign planet while defining their own identity. The character creator and story events support Black and queer identities through a variety of choices. Players can eventually take on leadership roles that mirror the responsibilities of a captain within the colony. The game features beautiful art and a branching story that reacts to the player personal life and values. It offers a unique and emotional perspective on leadership and growth.

‘Star Wars: The Old Republic’ (2011)

The Smuggler class in this massive multiplayer game allows players to live the life of a space pirate with their own ship and crew. Character creation includes a wide range of diverse options for Black protagonists and inclusive romance paths. Players can make choices that lean toward piracy and self interest while leading their companions through the galaxy. The ship serves as a central hub for social interaction and mission planning. This game brings the classic pirate archetype into a popular science fiction universe.

‘Star Trek Online’ (2010)

Players take on the role of a captain of their own starship within the United Federation of Planets or other factions. The character creator is incredibly detailed and allows for the creation of Black captains with various cultural markers. The game supports inclusive social interactions and the freedom to roleplay queer identities within the crew. Command mechanics involve both ship to ship combat and ground missions with a dedicated away team. This title emphasizes the diplomatic and strategic aspects of being a captain.

‘No Man’s Sky’ (2016)

This space exploration game allows players to command massive freighters and lead a fleet of smaller frigates. While the player character is often behind a suit the customization options allow for diverse visual expressions of identity. The sandbox nature of the game supports headcanon and roleplay for queer and Black identities in a vast universe. Players spend much of their time managing their crew and building their reputation as a leader of the stars. It provides a nearly infinite playground for those who enjoy the solitude of a captain.

‘The Elder Scrolls Online’ (2014)

This multiplayer game features several regions themed around piracy such as Stros M’Kai and the Gold Coast. The character creator allows for deep customization of Black characters across various races like Redguards. Players can participate in queer romances and join guilds that focus on maritime roleplay. Acquiring a ship and pirate themed housing allows players to fully inhabit the role of a captain. The game world is filled with lore and activities that support a seafaring lifestyle.

‘Guild Wars 2’ (2012)

Players in this multiplayer game can explore the pirate city of Lion’s Arch and participate in seafaring adventures. The character creation suite offers many options for Black protagonists to lead their own story. The game features diverse non player characters and supports queer identities through its world building and social systems. Players can earn nautical titles and outfits to reflect their status as a captain of the seas. This title offers a vibrant and inclusive world for players to explore.

‘Black Desert Online’ (2014)

This action oriented multiplayer game features a robust character creator that is known for its high level of detail. Players can create a Black captain and command their own ships for trade and naval combat. The game includes various outfits and accessories that fit a pirate aesthetic for both the character and the vessel. While the game focuses on progression and combat the social systems allow for the expression of diverse identities. It provides a visually stunning environment for maritime exploration and leadership.

‘Atlas’ (2018)

This survival game is entirely focused on the pirate experience and allows players to build and command their own ships. The character creator provides a range of options for representing Black pirates in a massive open world. Players can form companies and lead a crew of other players or non player characters. While the game is more focused on survival and conquest the sandbox nature supports diverse roleplaying. It offers a gritty and detailed simulation of the pirate life.

‘World of Warcraft’ (2004–2025)

The long running multiplayer game provides extensive customization for human and other playable races to reflect Black identities. Players can engage with various pirate factions and acquire titles like Bloodsail Admiral to signify their status as a captain. The transmogrification system allows for a wide array of seafaring outfits and weapons to be worn at all times. Although the game lacks a direct romance mechanic the social environment and guild structures support queer communities and personal expression. This expansive world remains a staple for roleplaying diverse characters in a high fantasy setting.

‘Final Fantasy XIV’ (2013)

The character creation system in ‘Final Fantasy XIV’ offers a broad spectrum of skin tones and features to represent Black characters. Players can take on the Limsa Lominsa starting city which is heavily themed around pirate culture and seafaring traditions. The job system includes classes that align with pirate archetypes and naval leadership roles. While the game does not have a traditional romance system players can participate in the Ceremony of Eternal Bonding with any other player. This allows for the expression of queer identities within a massive multiplayer world.

‘Wildermyth’ (2021)

This procedurally generated roleplaying game allows players to guide a group of heroes through their entire lives. The character creator supports diverse appearances including Black characters and allows for the development of queer relationships between party members. Characters can gain nautical traits and equipment that turn them into pirate like leaders of their company. The story evolves based on player choices and the relationships formed between the heroes. It provides a personal and meaningful way to experience the journey of a captain and their crew.

‘Solasta: Crown of the Magister’ (2021)

Players create a full party of adventurers using a character creator that includes diverse skin tones and backgrounds. By giving a character a seafaring history and leadership skills players can roleplay a captain archetype. The game focuses on tactical combat and exploration where the player choices define the group dynamic. While the romance options are limited the character interactions allow for inclusive roleplay. This title is a great choice for those who enjoy the mechanics of classic tabletop games.

‘Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition’ (2018)

This classic roleplaying game provides extensive tools for creating a Black protagonist with a variety of backgrounds. The ‘Pirates of the Sword Coast’ expansion is specifically designed for those who want to live the life of a seafaring captain. Players can engage in various dialogue options that support queer identities and inclusive roleplaying. The game features a deep narrative where the player choices have a significant impact on the world. It remains a powerful tool for custom roleplaying experiences.

‘Salt and Sacrifice’ (2022)

This 2D action game allows players to create a protagonist with a wide range of diverse features including many options for Black skin tones. Players can equip various seafaring armor and weapons while leading their own journey through a dark fantasy world. The focus on exploration and survival mirrors the challenges faced by a captain in a hostile environment. While the game is combat heavy the visual customization supports a strong sense of personal identity. It offers a unique and atmospheric experience for those who enjoy a pirate aesthetic.

‘Raft’ (2018)

In this survival game players must expand a simple raft into a massive floating vessel while navigating the open ocean. The character customization options allow players to create Black characters who lead the survival effort. The multiplayer nature of the game encourages social interaction and the expression of queer identities within a small crew. As the leader of the raft the player must manage resources and direct the path of the journey. This title provides a unique perspective on the responsibilities of being a captain.

‘Valheim’ (2021)

Players in ‘Valheim’ can build and command their own longships as they explore a vast procedurally generated wilderness. The character creator includes options for diverse skin tones and appearances to represent Black Vikings and captains. While the game does not have a formal romance system the social aspects of building a community with other players support queer expression. Navigating the seas and leading a group through dangerous encounters reinforces the captaincy theme. This game offers a rewarding loop of construction and exploration.

‘Pillars of Eternity’ (2015)

The first game in the ‘Pillars of Eternity’ series introduces the deep character creation and inclusive storytelling found in its sequel. Players can create a Black protagonist who leads a party of companions through a world filled with political and magical conflict. While this game does not feature ship command as a core mechanic it allows players to establish themselves as a leader. The various narrative paths support queer identities and personal agency. It serves as a strong foundation for the pirate themed adventures that follow.

‘Dragon Age II’ (2011)

The narrative follows the life of Hawke who can be customized to have Black features through the robust character creator. Players can engage in a romance with the pirate captain Isabela or other companions regardless of gender. While the game takes place primarily in a single city the naval themes and interactions with seafaring factions are central. The branching dialogue system allows the player to develop a personality that fits a charismatic leader. This entry in the series is well known for its focus on personal relationships and diverse identity options.

‘Mass Effect: Andromeda’ (2017)

As the Pathfinder players command the starship Tempest and lead a diverse crew through a new galaxy. The character creator allows for the design of a Black protagonist with various skin tones and hair textures. The game features several queer romance options that are integrated into the story and character development. Being the Pathfinder involves making critical decisions that impact the survival of the human colony. This title emphasizes the role of a leader exploring the unknown and building a new future.

‘Fallout 4’ (2015)

The character creator in ‘Fallout 4’ is highly detailed and allows for the creation of a Black protagonist who can lead various factions. Players can dress their character in pirate themed outfits found throughout the wasteland and lead their own settlements. The game features several queer romance options with companions who support the player leadership. While the setting is post apocalyptic the ability to command and build provides a sense of captaincy. It offers a sandbox environment for players to define their own path.

‘Fallout 76’ (2018)

This multiplayer entry in the ‘Fallout’ series allows players to create Black characters and lead their own teams in a shared world. Players can obtain nautical clothing and build camps that reflect a pirate or seafaring lifestyle. The social systems support the expression of queer identities through interaction and group activities. Leading a group through challenging events and raids mimics the role of a captain in a hostile land. This title provides a communal way to experience a customized identity.

‘Saints Row IV’ (2013)

Players take on the role of the President of the United States who must lead a crew of rebels against an alien invasion. The character creator is famous for its inclusivity and allows for any combination of Black skin tones and queer identities. Players can choose from various nautical and pirate themed outfits to wear during missions. While the game is a comedy the mechanics of leading a crew and upgrading a base are central. It offers a chaotic and fun way to inhabit a powerful leadership role.

‘Saints Row’ (2022)

The reboot of ‘Saints Row’ features one of the most comprehensive character creators in gaming for representing diverse identities. Players can design a Black leader who founds a criminal empire and leads a group of loyal friends. The game includes various pirate themed cosmetic options and allows for the expression of queer identities through choice and appearance. As the boss of the Saints the player makes all the major decisions for the organization. This title provides a modern and stylish take on being a leader.

‘Monster Hunter World’ (2018)

Players can design a Black protagonist with a wide range of features and hairstyles to lead the Research Commission expeditions. The game includes several nautical themed armor sets that can be used to create a pirate captain look. While the game does not have a romance system the focus on leadership and group coordination is significant. Players command their own quarters and manage a team of workers and hunters. This title provides a sense of authority in a world of giant creatures and exploration.

‘Elden Ring’ (2022)

The character creator in ‘Elden Ring’ provides a vast number of options for designing a Black protagonist with realistic details. Players can find and wear various seafaring and historical outfits that evoke the image of a pirate captain. While the game focuses on challenging combat the role of the protagonist is to become a leader and a lord. The player has complete control over their visual identity and the way they interact with the world. It offers a dark and epic journey where the player identity is always at the forefront.

‘Bloodborne’ (2015)

In this atmospheric action game players can create a Black protagonist and equip various hunter sets that have a nautical or pirate aesthetic. The character creator allows for a high degree of personalization in skin tone and facial structure. While the game does not feature traditional leadership mechanics the player is the sole force driving the narrative forward. The visual storytelling and gothic setting provide a unique backdrop for a seafaring inspired character. This title is known for its intense combat and deep lore.

‘Dark Souls III’ (2016)

Players can design a Black protagonist using the detailed character creator and equip various armors that fit a pirate theme. The game allows for a wide range of visual expression including diverse skin tones and hair options. While the narrative is focused on survival the player acts as a leader in their quest to link the fire. The social systems like covenants allow for a sense of community and group identity. It provides a challenging environment where the player visual persona is central to the experience.

‘Code Vein’ (2019)

This anime inspired action roleplaying game features an incredibly deep character creator with numerous options for Black characters. Players can customize their outfits with various nautical and stylish accessories to create a captain aesthetic. The game features a focus on companions and building relationships while leading a team through a post apocalyptic world. While the story is fixed the player visual identity and inclusive character choices are highly flexible. It offers a unique and stylized way to represent a powerful leader.

‘Dragon’s Dogma 2’ (2024)

The character creator in ‘Dragon’s Dogma 2’ is praised for its realism and its ability to represent diverse Black identities. Players can lead a group of pawns and command them in battle while exploring a vast fantasy world. The game includes various seafaring armor and clothing that allow for a pirate captain roleplay. While the romance system is subtle it allows for inclusive relationships with a variety of characters. This title provides a grand sense of scale and authority for the player character.

‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ (2023)

The customization options in ‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ provide players with numerous ways to represent Black identities through skin tones and hair textures. Players can obtain and wear various pirate themed clothing items and accessories to transform their avatar into a captain. The social simulation aspects allow for open expression of queer identities through dress and home decoration. While there is no combat the player acts as the leader of the valley and manages its development. This game offers a peaceful way to inhabit a specific persona.

‘Tower of Fantasy’ (2022)

This multiplayer action game features a detailed character creator that allows for diverse racial representation and styles. Players can equip various nautical outfits and lead their own teams through a science fiction world. The social systems support the expression of queer identities through shared activities and character customization. As a leader in the game world players engage in complex battles and exploration. It offers a vibrant and fast paced environment for roleplaying a unique captain.

‘V Rising’ (2024)

In this survival game players can create a Black vampire lord and build their own castle and empire. The character creator includes options for diverse appearances and seafaring clothing sets that evoke a pirate captain look. Players can lead a group of other players or servants to dominate the land and its resources. While the focus is on survival and conquest the sandbox nature supports a wide range of personal identities. This title provides a dark and gothic take on the leadership fantasy.

‘Salt and Sanctuary’ (2016)

This 2D action roleplaying game features a character creator that allows for diverse racial representation and various starting backgrounds. Players can find and equip nautical themed armor sets that evoke the look of a pirate captain. The challenging gameplay focuses on exploration and survival as the protagonist leads their own journey through a mysterious island. While the narrative is dark and atmospheric the player has complete control over their character visual identity. It provides a unique aesthetic for those who enjoy challenging combat.

‘Sea of Craft’ (2023)

This physics based building game allows players to design and command their own ships in a vast ocean setting. The character customization options support Black protagonists and various pirate themed aesthetics. While the game focuses on engineering and naval combat the social aspects allow for the expression of queer identities. As the captain of a custom built vessel the player is responsible for every aspect of their ship performance. It provides a creative and technical take on the pirate experience.

Please share your thoughts on your favorite queer pirate games in the comments.