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The Assassin's Creed series has a proud tradition, but we're not talking about the blending of historical fiction with modern sci-fi genetics. We speak instead of pre-order bonuses, and the extra content, custom skins, and additional missions awarded to players who decide to put their money down early. With Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, the old format is getting a distinctly piratey twist.

That twist comes in the form of the Black Island Pack, awarding players the chance to explore an additional island, and in the process, acquire the costume, the weaponry, and the flagship of Captain Henry Morgan (yes, that Captain Morgan). "To life, love, and pre-order loot," we suppose the saying now goes.

The Black Island Pack is available exclusively to players who pre-order their copy of Black Flag through Gamestop - again, not too surprising. The pre-order pack had previously been announced, but the new trailer shows that Ubisoft's notion of an unlockable side mission seem to be evolving along with the series itself. The enemies, traversal, weaponry, costumes and custom ship are a far cry from the minimal Mayan Ruins location of AC3, for instance.

Assassins Creed 4 Black Flag Captain Morgan

We can't help but think that more gamers will take note of this particular pre-order deal due in large part to the famous name (and pose) of the infamous pirate around which the fictional island is crafted. We have to assume that given the emphasis on treasure-hunting, Captain Morgan's hidden stash will feature a significant amount of bottled rum.

Besides the chance to wear Morgan's signature red coat, and use his silver flintlock pistols, those who gain access to the Black Island Pack will also unlock Morgan's 'Black Ship.' It's unclear if said ship will replace Kenway's own ship, the Jackdaw, or simply be added to the player's arsenal.

What do you think of the Black Island Pack? Will it convince you to pre-order your copy today, or does the wealth of content being made available only through one retailer rub you the wrong way? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag will be released on October 29, 2013 for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PC, and on next-gen consoles.

Follow Andrew on Twitter @andrew_dyce.