Sea of Thieves has, for the longest time now, seen the release of monthly updates that change up the game. While some are definitely more impactful than others, each one gives you fresh and refreshed ways to play the game. Despite how well this has worked for the continued growth, some fans have clearly expressed concerns with the lack of content in some updates over others. At least in part due to this, Sea of Thieves will now be switching to a schedule of one update every three months instead of once a month.

These take the form of seasonal updates, allowing Sea of Thieves to also introduce a Plunder Pass. You and I both know exactly what that means, for better or worse. This new battle pass system will feature the 100 level system you’re used to, allowing you to earn Pirate Renown and some fresh rewards. These will be available for all players but, and this will shock you, you can purchase an extra track of rewards using real money. I’m sure you didn’t see that one coming in this year. This Plunder Pass will join fresh changes, updates to the in-game store and new Twitch drop events each season. Each of these seasons promises to bring much more substantial content updates though, so less may very well mean more.

Outside of regular adventures, Sea of Thieves’ Arena mode will also see its development put on hold. The team clarified that while this mode is good, 97 percent of the player base just plays the regular game anyway. With that being said, they want to focus on where people are playing instead of on a mode with that few concurrent players.

This news is definitely good for the longevity of the game, as monthly updates that are just quality of life were getting rather boring. That is, at least in my opinion. December will still see the release of one more though, the Festival of Giving update. This will have a whole host of festive events, along with other little goodies you can claim outside of the game.