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Difference between revisions of "Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
m (updated template usage)
 
(88 intermediate revisions by 39 users not shown)
Line 3: Line 3:
 
|developers  =  
 
|developers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Ubisoft Montreal}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Ubisoft Montreal}}
{{Infobox game/row/winporter|Ubisoft Ukraine}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/porter|Ubisoft Ukraine|Windows}}
 
|publishers  =  
 
|publishers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Ubisoft}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Ubisoft}}
Line 10: Line 10:
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|November 19, 2013}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|November 19, 2013}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|assassins-creed-iv-black-flag|84}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|OpenCritic|316/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag|85}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|assassins-creed-iv-black-flag|85}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase, DLC }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | Third-person }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Action, Open world, Stealth }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | Naval/watercraft }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Historical, Piracy }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | Assassin's Creed }}
 
|steam appid  = 242050
 
|steam appid  = 242050
|gogcom page  =  
+
|gogcom id    =  
|strategywiki = Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag
+
|official site= https://www.ubisoft.com/en-us/game/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag/
 +
|hltb        = 12707
 +
|lutris      = assassins-creed-iv-black-flag
 +
|mobygames    = assassins-creed-iv-black-flag_
 +
|strategywiki = Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
 
|wikipedia    = Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
 
|wikipedia    = Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
 
|winehq      = 15867
 
|winehq      = 15867
 +
|license      = commercial
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{Introduction
 +
|introduction      =
 +
 +
|release history  =
 +
 +
|current state    =
 
}}
 
}}
{{Series|Assassin's Creed}}
 
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
 
{{ii}} [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/page/blog/_/features/port-reports/pc-report-assassin%E2%80%99s-creed-iv-black-flag-r115 PC Report]
 
{{ii}} [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/page/blog/_/features/port-reports/pc-report-assassin%E2%80%99s-creed-iv-black-flag-r115 PC Report]
 +
{{mm}} [https://forums.ubisoft.com/forumdisplay.php/27-Assassin-s-Creed Official forums]
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
  
Line 25: Line 55:
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability/row| Retail | | Uplay | | | Windows }}
 
{{Availability/row| Retail | | Uplay | | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Amazon | B00BPEBG76 | Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| GamersGate | assassins-creed-iv-black-flagtm-gold-edition | Uplay | Gold Edition. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| GamersGate | DD-AC4 | Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 1186-4 | Uplay | Gold Edition. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 1186-1 | Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| GMG | assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-gold-edition-pc | Uplay | Gold Edition. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| GameStop | 112115 | Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Humble | assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-gold-edition | Uplay | Gold Edition. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| GMG | assassins-creed-iv-black-flag | Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Steam | 242050 | Steam, Uplay | Gold Edition. | | Windows | }}
{{Availability/row| Humble | assassins-creed-iv-black-flag | Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Uplay | 56c4948088a7e300458b46aa | Uplay | {{store link|Uplay|575ffdb4a3be1633568b4e90|Gold Edition}} also available. This edition is included with {{Store feature|Uplay+}}. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Origin | assassins-creed/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag/standard-edition | Origin, Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Amazon | B00BPEBG76 | Uplay | | | Windows | unavailable }}
{{Availability/row| Steam | 242050 | Steam, Uplay | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Origin | assassins-creed/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag/standard-edition | Origin, Uplay | Deluxe Edition was also available. | | Windows | unavailable }}
{{Availability/row| Uplay | 56c4948088a7e300458b46aa | Uplay | {{store link|Uplay|56c4948088a7e300458b46b0|Deluxe Edition}} | | Windows }}
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|Uplay}}.
 
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|Uplay}}.
  
 
===Version differences===
 
===Version differences===
{{ii}} The Gold Edition is a complete edition containing the base game and all DLC. Only available in NA.
+
{{ii}} The Gold Edition is a complete edition containing the base game and all DLC.
 
{{ii}} The Deluxe Edition includes '''Aveline DLC''', '''The Castaway's Prize''' and '''Illustrious Pirates Pack'''.
 
{{ii}} The Deluxe Edition includes '''Aveline DLC''', '''The Castaway's Prize''' and '''Illustrious Pirates Pack'''.
 
{{ii}} Freedom Cry is available as both DLC and a [[Assassin's Creed: Freedom Cry|standalone game]].
 
{{ii}} Freedom Cry is available as both DLC and a [[Assassin's Creed: Freedom Cry|standalone game]].
  
 +
==Monetization==
 
{{DLC|
 
{{DLC|
 
{{DLC/row| Season Pass | | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Season Pass | | Windows }}
Line 60: Line 90:
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 +
 +
===Mods===
 +
===4k Improved Story Characters===
 +
[https://www.nexusmods.com/assassinscreedivblackflag/mods/400?tab=files 4k Improved Story Characters]
 +
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
{{Fixbox|description=File removal|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=File removal|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
# Go to the installation folder.
+
# Go to the {{folder|{{P|game}}}}.
# Go into <code>videos</code> (for single player) or <code>multi\videos</code> (for multiplayer).
+
# Go into {{folder|videos}} (for single player) or {{folder|multi\videos}} (for multiplayer).
 
# Rename, delete or move these files:  
 
# Rename, delete or move these files:  
 
<pre>
 
<pre>
Line 72: Line 107:
 
warning_disclaimer.bik
 
warning_disclaimer.bik
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
{{ii}} <code>warning_disclaimer.bik</code> is in a subfolder that corresponds with the set language.
+
{{ii}} {{file|warning_disclaimer.bik}} is in a subfolder that corresponds with the set language.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===DLC Not Showing Up In-Game===
 +
{{ii}} If you bought the game with all its DLC (the gold edition for example), the game might not show these DLC in-game. This can be seen through the '''Stay tuned for more adventures''' message in the main menu.
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Enter And Exit The Multiplayer Mode|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/1/4943253385012878598/|title=Steam Forums: Missing DLC [Solution]|date=2023-06-02}}</ref>|fix=
 +
{{ii}} ''While the multiplayer is loading, the game checks for '''Downloadable content''', which means our dlc.''
 +
#Select '''Multiplayer''' from the main menu.
 +
# Upon reaching the multiplayer menu, go back to the '''Singleplayer''' menu.
 +
# Once back in the '''Singleplayer''' menu, the top-right box should now be replaced with '''Freedom Cry/Aveline'''.
 +
{{ii}} If '''step 3''' is not the case, repeat the previous steps.
 +
{{ii}} Test if this fix is consistent by closing and relaunching the game.
 +
{{++}} Also works with already existing savegames.
 +
{{--}} This has to be done with every reinstall of the game.
 +
{{--}} Fix might not be possible when the servers are eventually shutdown.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===If you cannot reach 60fps cap the framerate to 35fps===
 +
{{ii}} The game is not optimized to run above 30fps, therefore a lot of modern gaming systems (especially laptops) fail to reach and maintain 60fps.
 +
 +
Capping to 30fps provides a very choppy experience and 40fps provides a very stuttery experience. 35fps is much less stuttery than 40fps and is noticeably smoother than 30fps, therefore it is the recommended way to play if you cannot get 60fps. [https://www.pcgamingwiki.com/wiki/Glossary:Frame_rate_(FPS)#Frame_rate_capping Information on various framerate capping tools can be found here] but the recommended tool to use is [https://www.guru3d.com/files-details/rtss-rivatuner-statistics-server-download.html RTSS].
 +
 +
===Latest update breaking full screen fix===
 +
{{ii}} This "mod" fixes the full screen issues that the recent update introduced. This works for Steam and the Ubisoft Connect versions of the game.
 +
[https://www.nexusmods.com/assassinscreedivblackflag/mods/426 Link to the fullscreen fix]
  
 
==Game data==
 
==Game data==
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag\*.ini|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag\GFXSettings.*.xml}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Save game data location===
 
===Save game data location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|uplay}}\savegames\{{p|uid}}\273\|{{p|uplay}}\savegames\{{p|uid}}\437\}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Uplay|{{p|uplay}}\savegames\{{p|uid}}\273\}}
 +
{{Game data/saves|Steam|{{p|uplay}}\savegames\{{p|uid}}\437\}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
|origin               =  
+
|discord                  =
|origin notes         =  
+
|discord notes            =
|steam cloud           = false
+
|epic games launcher      =
|steam cloud notes     =  
+
|epic games launcher notes =
|uplay                = false
+
|gog galaxy                =
|uplay notes           = Uplay cloud synchronization was disabled sometime in 2013.<ref>[https://i.imgur.com/czuHfDi.png Ubisoft Customer Service Screenshot]</ref>
+
|gog galaxy notes          =
 +
|origin                   = unknown
 +
|origin notes             =  
 +
|steam cloud               = false
 +
|steam cloud notes         =  
 +
|ubisoft connect          = false
 +
|ubisoft connect notes     = Disabled in 2013.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://i.imgur.com/czuHfDi.png|title=Ubisoft Customer Service Screenshot|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 +
|xbox cloud                =
 +
|xbox cloud notes          =
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Video settings==
+
==Video==
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag graphics.jpg|Graphics settings.}}
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag graphics.jpg|Graphics settings.}}
{{Video settings
+
{{Video
|wsgf link                  = http://www.wsgf.org/dr/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag/en
+
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag/en
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = gold
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = gold
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = gold
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = gold
Line 105: Line 172:
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = gold
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = gold
 
|widescreen resolution      = true
 
|widescreen resolution      = true
|widescreen resolution notes= Anamorphic 16:9; use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] to remove letterboxing.
+
|widescreen resolution notes= {{term|Anamorphic}} 16:9; use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] to remove letterboxing.
 
|multimonitor              = true
 
|multimonitor              = true
|multimonitor notes        = Anamorphic 16:9;<ref>[http://www.wsgf.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=64&t=26834 Assassin Creed 4 Black Flag - WSGF forums]</ref> use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] to remove letterboxing. Or if using an AMD card just use Catalyst version 14.4
+
|multimonitor notes        = {{term|Anamorphic}} 16:9;<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.wsgf.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=64&t=26834|title=Assassin Creed 4 Black Flag - WSGF forums|date=May 2023}}</ref> use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen]. Or if using an AMD card just use Catalyst version 14.4
 
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
 
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
|ultrawidescreen notes      = See the [http://www.wsgf.org/dr/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag/en WSGF entry].
+
|ultrawidescreen notes      = See [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1419-assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-ultrawide-and-multimon-hack/ the community page].
 
|4k ultra hd                = true
 
|4k ultra hd                = true
 
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
 
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
 
|fov                        = hackable
 
|fov                        = hackable
|fov notes                  = Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1096-assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-fov-cheat-table/ jim2point0's cheat table] (requires [http://cheatengine.org/downloads.php Cheat Engine]).
+
|fov notes                  = Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1096-assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-fov-cheat-table/ jim2point0's cheat table] (requires [https://cheatengine.org/downloads.php Cheat Engine]).
 
|windowed                  = hackable
 
|windowed                  = hackable
 
|windowed notes            = See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
 
|windowed notes            = See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
Line 122: Line 189:
 
|antialiasing              = true
 
|antialiasing              = true
 
|antialiasing notes        = [[TXAA]] (Nvidia only), [[FXAA]], [[SMAA]] (actually [[SMAA]] T2X) and [[MSAA]]/[[CSAA]] (also using [[FXAA]]).
 
|antialiasing notes        = [[TXAA]] (Nvidia only), [[FXAA]], [[SMAA]] (actually [[SMAA]] T2X) and [[MSAA]]/[[CSAA]] (also using [[FXAA]]).
 +
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync notes                = Double buffered. See [[#FPS drops to 30 when Vsync is enabled|FPS drops to 30 when Vsync is enabled]] for triple buffered v-sync.
 
|vsync notes                = Double buffered. See [[#FPS drops to 30 when Vsync is enabled|FPS drops to 30 when Vsync is enabled]] for triple buffered v-sync.
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps                    = true
|60 fps notes              =  
+
|60 fps notes              = Frame rate is capped at 63 FPS.
|120 fps                    = false
+
|120 fps                    = hackable
|120 fps notes              = Frame rate is capped at 63 FPS.
+
|120 fps notes              = See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
 
|hdr                        = unknown
 
|hdr                        = unknown
 
|hdr notes                  =  
 
|hdr notes                  =  
Line 135: Line 205:
  
 
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]===
{{Fixbox|description=Run patcher|ref=<ref>[http://www.deadendthrills.com/forum/discussion/55/guide-assassin-s-creed-4-black-flag &#91;GUIDE&#93; Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag - Dead End Thrills]</ref>|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Run patcher|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.deadendthrills.com/forum/discussion/55/guide-assassin-s-creed-4-black-flag|title=&#91;GUIDE&#93; Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag - Dead End Thrills|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
# Download [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1094-assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-window-mode-patcher/ AC4 Window Mode Patcher].
 
# Download [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1094-assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-window-mode-patcher/ AC4 Window Mode Patcher].
 
# Copy it to the installation folder and launch it.
 
# Copy it to the installation folder and launch it.
Line 152: Line 222:
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Input settings==
+
===[[Glossary:Frame rate (FPS)|High frame rate]]===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=240 FPS Patch|fix=
 +
# Download [https://www.nexusmods.com/assassinscreedivblackflag/mods/453 240 FPS Patch]
 +
# Replace {{file|AC4BFSP.exe}} in {{folder|{{P|game}}}}.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Input==
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag controls.jpg|Controls settings.}}
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag controls.jpg|Controls settings.}}
{{Input settings
+
{{Input
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap notes          =  
 
|key remap notes          =  
|acceleration option      = false
+
|acceleration option      = always on
|acceleration option notes = Acceleration is enabled by default.
+
|acceleration option notes = Acceleration is present. Can't be disabled
 
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
Line 185: Line 261:
 
|dualshock 4              = true
 
|dualshock 4              = true
 
|dualshock 4 notes        =  
 
|dualshock 4 notes        =  
|dualshock prompts        = false
+
|dualshock prompts        = hackable
|dualshock prompts notes  = Xbox prompts.
+
|dualshock prompts notes  = Use [https://www.nexusmods.com/assassinscreedivblackflag/mods/18 this mod] for singleplayer. Multiplayer natively supports Dualshock 4 prompts.
 
|light bar support        = unknown
 
|light bar support        = unknown
 
|light bar support notes  =  
 
|light bar support notes  =  
Line 217: Line 293:
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Audio settings==
+
==Audio==
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag audio.jpg|Audio settings.}}
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag audio.jpg|Audio settings.}}
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag general.jpg|General settings.}}
 
{{Image|assassins creed iv black flag general.jpg|General settings.}}
{{Audio settings
+
{{Audio
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume notes    = Sliders for music, effects and voices.
 
|separate volume notes    = Sliders for music, effects and voices.
Line 232: Line 308:
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|eax support              =  
 
|eax support              =  
|eax support notes        =  
+
|eax support notes         =
 +
|royalty free audio       = unknown
 +
|royalty free audio notes  =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 238: Line 316:
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = English
 
  |language  = English
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Simplified Chinese
 
  |language  = Simplified Chinese
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Czech
 
  |language  = Czech
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Danish
 
  |language  = Danish
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Dutch
 
  |language  = Dutch
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Finnish
 
  |language  = Finnish
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = French
 
  |language  = French
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = German
 
  |language  = German
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Hungarian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Italian
 
  |language  = Italian
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Japanese
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Japanese Subtitles can only be enabled when the Interface/Menu Language is set to Japanese.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Norwegian
 
  |language  = Norwegian
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Polish
 
  |language  = Polish
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Portuguese
 
  |language  = Portuguese
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Brazilian Portuguese
 
  |language  = Brazilian Portuguese
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Russian
 
  |language  = Russian
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Spanish
 
  |language  = Spanish
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Swedish
 
  |language  = Swedish
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Turkish
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = [https://animusprojesi.com/assassins-creed-3-remastered-turkce-yama/ Fan translation].
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
Line 393: Line 492:
 
|native 3d notes            =  
 
|native 3d notes            =  
 
|nvidia 3d vision            = hackable
 
|nvidia 3d vision            = hackable
|nvidia 3d vision notes      = Use [http://helixmod.blogspot.com/2014/05/assassins-creed-4-black-flag-directx-11.html Helix Mod: Assassins Creed 4 Black Flag].
+
|nvidia 3d vision notes      = Use [https://helixmod.blogspot.com/2014/05/assassins-creed-4-black-flag-directx-11.html Helix Mod: Assassins Creed 4 Black Flag].
 
|tridef 3d                  = unknown
 
|tridef 3d                  = unknown
 
|tridef 3d notes            =  
 
|tridef 3d notes            =  
 
|iz3d                        = unknown
 
|iz3d                        = unknown
 
|iz3d notes                  =  
 
|iz3d notes                  =  
 +
|vorpx                      = true
 +
|vorpx modes                = G3D
 +
|vorpx notes                = Officially supported game, see [https://www.vorpx.com/supported-games/ official vorpx game list].
 
|htc vive                    =  
 
|htc vive                    =  
 
|htc vive notes              =  
 
|htc vive notes              =  
Line 427: Line 529:
  
 
==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
 +
 +
===Missing Audio during combat===
 +
{{ii}} If game was bought as DLC instead of standalone copy, you will come across an issue where Adewale's Machete and various other weapon sounds appear to be silent which Ubisoft never released a proper fix.
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Override DLC file|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://forums.ubisoft.com/showthread.php/1905435-Assassin-s-Creed-IV-Freedom-Cry-Audio-Bug-during-Combat|title=Thread: IMPORTANT Assassin's Creed IV Freedom Cry Audio Bug during Combat Forums|date=July 7, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/assassinscreed/comments/858dmh/missing_sound_effects_in_freedom_cry_pc/|title=Missing Sound Effects in Freedom Cry (PC)|date=March 17, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/1/2985285449004798042/|title=Adewale's weapons make no sound|date=March 24, 2018}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Download [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1B8j5p2nR9My88jv92AQSqC8IEl5eyqxQ DataPC_10_dlc.forge]
 +
# Replace file located in <code>{{p|game}}\dlc_10</code>.
 +
{{--}} This may cause achievements, story progression and unlockables to be deemed as incomplete / locked unless file is reverted back to default.
 +
}}
 +
 
===Crash when installed in a Storage Space===
 
===Crash when installed in a Storage Space===
 
{{ii}} The game will refuse to run when installed on a drive which is managed by a Storage Space on Windows 8 and later.
 
{{ii}} The game will refuse to run when installed on a drive which is managed by a Storage Space on Windows 8 and later.
Line 435: Line 546:
 
===Game freezes on AMD GPUs===
 
===Game freezes on AMD GPUs===
 
{{ii}} This issue first manifests upon starting a new file when the game freezes on a black screen with the 'saving' icon.
 
{{ii}} This issue first manifests upon starting a new file when the game freezes on a black screen with the 'saving' icon.
{{Fixbox|description=Avoid using MSAA or EQAA|ref=<ref>[https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/0/144512942751579374/ "Game freezing on black "saving" screen- Please help!" - Steam Community Discussions]</ref>}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=Avoid using MSAA or EQAA|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/0/144512942751579374/|title="Game freezing on black "saving" screen- Please help!" - Steam Community Discussions|date=May 2023}}</ref>}}
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Turn soft shadows off}}
  
 
===The image freezes but the game still runs in the background===
 
===The image freezes but the game still runs in the background===
{{ii}} Sometimes the game might appear to be frozen, but you can still hear the sound and the HUD works.<ref>[https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/0/558756168091445803/ Steam Forums: AC4 freezes but the HUD still okay???]</ref>
+
{{ii}} Sometimes the game might appear to be frozen, but you can still hear the sound and the HUD works.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/0/558756168091445803/|title=Steam Forums: AC4 freezes but the HUD still okay???|date=May 2023}}</ref>
  
 
{{Fixbox|description=Enabling "Volumetric Fog" and / or disabling "FXAA" fixes the issue|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Enabling "Volumetric Fog" and / or disabling "FXAA" fixes the issue|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{ii}} "Volumetric Fog" may cause artifacts on screen edges in-game, Use Driver AA instead if MSAA is being used.<ref>[https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/0/558748822711618462/#c540744474971873347 Steam Forums Post]</ref>
+
{{ii}} "Volumetric Fog" may cause artifacts on screen edges in-game, Use Driver AA instead if MSAA is being used.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/242050/discussions/0/558748822711618462/#c540744474971873347|title=Steam Forums Post|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 457: Line 569:
 
# Add a profile pointing to AC4BFSP.exe or AC4BFMP.exe.
 
# Add a profile pointing to AC4BFSP.exe or AC4BFMP.exe.
 
# Select the exe profile by clicking on it.
 
# Select the exe profile by clicking on it.
# Go to the tweaks tab leave vsync to driver default and check triple buffering.
+
# Go to the tweaks tab leave Vsync to driver default and check triple buffering.
  
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
Line 472: Line 584:
 
}}
 
}}
  
===Nvidia PhysX performance issues===
+
===Nvidia PhysX performance issues on newer GPUs===
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Disable Nvidia PhysX in the in-game settings menu|fix=
 +
 
 +
}}
 +
 
 
{{Fixbox|description=Disable Shadowplay|ref=<ref name="physx">[https://forums.geforce.com/default/topic/714270/pc-games/-finally-assassins-creed-4-physx-performance-fix-/ (Finally) Assassins Creed 4 Physx Performance Fix!! - GeForce Forums]</ref>}}
 
{{Fixbox|description=Disable Shadowplay|ref=<ref name="physx">[https://forums.geforce.com/default/topic/714270/pc-games/-finally-assassins-creed-4-physx-performance-fix-/ (Finally) Assassins Creed 4 Physx Performance Fix!! - GeForce Forums]</ref>}}
 +
 
{{Fixbox|description=Change process affinity|ref=<ref name="physx" />|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Change process affinity|ref=<ref name="physx" />|fix=
 
# Press {{Key|Ctrl|Alt|Del}} to open Task Manager.
 
# Press {{Key|Ctrl|Alt|Del}} to open Task Manager.
Line 483: Line 601:
 
}}
 
}}
  
===Nvidia PhysX on newer GPUs even after the above workaround===
 
 
{{Fixbox|description=Remove old PhysX files|ref=<ref name="physx" />|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Remove old PhysX files|ref=<ref name="physx" />|fix=
 
# Install updated PhysX drivers
 
# Install updated PhysX drivers
 
# Go to the {{P|game}}
 
# Go to the {{P|game}}
 
# Delete or rename {{file|PhysX3_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysX3Common_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysX3Cooking_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysX3Gpu_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysXDevice.dll}}
 
# Delete or rename {{file|PhysX3_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysX3Common_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysX3Cooking_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysX3Gpu_x86.dll}}, {{file|PhysXDevice.dll}}
# This will disable PhysX in the game. This can also be achieved by simply disabling PhysX in the in-game menu.
+
This will disable PhysX in the game. This has the same effect as simply disabling PhysX in the in-game menu.
}}
 
 
 
===Nvidia broken PhysX on newer GPUs fix (Windows 7)===
 
{{Fixbox|description=Install older PhysX driver|fix=
 
# Uninstall any existing instance of PhysX from your computer.
 
# Install version 9.14 of PhysX. Earlier version are not supported, and later versions are broken. [http://www.nvidia.com/object/physx-9.14.0702-driver.html PhysX 9.14.0702]
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 520: Line 631:
 
|shader model versions  =  
 
|shader model versions  =  
 
|shader model notes    =  
 
|shader model notes    =  
|64-bit executable     = false
+
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
|64-bit executable notes=  
+
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app =
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app =
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        =
 +
|linux 32-bit executable=  
 +
|linux 64-bit executable=
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Middleware===
 +
{{Middleware
 +
|physics          =
 +
|physics notes    =
 +
|audio            = Wwise
 +
|audio notes      = <ref>http://satsun.org/audio/</ref>
 +
|interface        =
 +
|interface notes  =
 +
|input            =
 +
|input notes      =
 +
|cutscenes        =
 +
|cutscenes notes  =
 +
|multiplayer      =
 +
|multiplayer notes=
 +
|anticheat        = PunkBuster
 +
|anticheat notes = Used PunkBuster initially<ref>{{Refsnip|url=https://www.evenbalance.com/|title=Even Balance, Inc. - PunkBuster Online Countermeasures|date=2018-09-04|snippet=Tue Nov 19 2013 12:00<br>Ubisoft has contracted with Even Balance, Inc. to integrate our PunkBuster™ Anti-Cheat software into the online game known as Assassin's Creed® 4 Black Flag.}}</ref> but was eventually removed.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2018-09-04|comment=Installed the game and joined a multiplayer session. PunkBuster were nowhere to be seen.}}</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 537: Line 676:
 
|minVRAM  = 512 MB
 
|minVRAM  = 512 MB
 
|minSM    = 4.0
 
|minSM    = 4.0
 +
|minaudio = DirectX compatible
  
 
|recOS    = 7 SP1, 8
 
|recOS    = 7 SP1, 8
|recCPU  = Intel Core i5 2400S 2.5 GHz
+
|recCPU  = Intel Core i5-2400S 2.5 GHz
|recCPU2  = AMD Phenom II X4 940 @ 3.0 GHz
+
|recCPU2  = AMD Phenom II X4 940 3.0 GHz
 
|recRAM  = 4 GB
 
|recRAM  = 4 GB
 
|recGPU  = Nvidia GeForce GTX 470
 
|recGPU  = Nvidia GeForce GTX 470
|recGPU2  = AMD Radeon HD 5850
+
|recGPU2  = ATI Radeon HD 5850
 
|recVRAM  = 1 GB
 
|recVRAM  = 1 GB
 
|recSM    = 5.0
 
|recSM    = 5.0
 +
|notes    = {{ii}} Supported video cards include: Nvidia GeForce GTX 260 or better, GT400, GT500, GT600, GT700 series or ATI Radeon HD4870 or better, HD5000, HD6000, HD7000 series.
 +
{{ii}} Laptop graphics cards may work but are not officially supported.
 +
{{ii}} Dual core processors will, despite the minimum requirements, most likely work.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.dsogaming.com/pc-performance-analyses/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-pc-performance-analysis/|title=Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag - PC Performance Analysis|date=May 2023}}</ref> (only LGA1150/LGA1155 dual core processors will, under most circumstances, deliver a playable frame rate - LGA775/LGA1156 and AM2/AM2+/AM3/FM1/FM2 dual core CPUs are unlikely to suffice due to significantly lower IPC)
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} Supported video cards include: Nvidia GeForce GTX 260 or better, GT400, GT500, GT600, GT700 series or AMD Radeon HD4870 or better, HD5000, HD6000, HD7000 series.
 
{{ii}} Laptop graphics cards may work but are not officially supported.
 
{{ii}} Dual core processors will, despite the minimum requirements, most likely work.<ref>[http://www.dsogaming.com/pc-performance-analyses/assassins-creed-iv-black-flag-pc-performance-analysis/ Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag - PC Performance Analysis]</ref> (only LGA1150/LGA1155 dual core processors will, under most circumstances, deliver a playable frame rate - LGA775/LGA1156 and AM2/AM2+/AM3/FM1/FM2 dual core CPUs are unlikely to suffice due to significantly lower IPC)
 
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}

Latest revision as of 19:21, 10 March 2024

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag cover
Developers
Ubisoft Montreal
Windows Ubisoft Ukraine
Publishers
Ubisoft
Engines
AnvilNext
Release dates
Windows November 19, 2013
Reception
Metacritic 84
OpenCritic 85
IGDB 85
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase, DLC
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Perspectives Third-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Action, Open world, Stealth
Vehicles Naval/watercraft
Themes Historical, Piracy
Series Assassin's Creed
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag on HowLongToBeat
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag on IGDB
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag guide on StrategyWiki
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag on MobyGames
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag on Wikipedia
Assassin's Creed 2008
Assassin's Creed II 2010
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood 2011
Assassin's Creed: Revelations 2011
Assassin's Creed III 2012
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag 2013
Assassin's Creed: Liberation HD 2014
Assassin's Creed: Freedom Cry 2014
Assassin's Creed: Pirates 2014
Assassin's Creed Unity 2014
Assassin's Creed Rogue 2015
Assassin's Creed Chronicles (series)
Assassin's Creed Syndicate 2015
Assassin's Creed Origins 2017
Discovery Tour (series)
Assassin's Creed Odyssey 2018
Assassin's Creed III Remastered 2019
Assassin's Creed III: Liberation Remastered 2019
Assassin's Creed Valhalla 2020
Assassin's Creed Mirage 2023

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is a singleplayer and multiplayer third-person action, open world and stealth game in the Assassin's Creed series.

General information

PC Report
Official forums
Steam Community Discussions

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Icon overlay.png
Windows
GamersGate
Icon overlay.png
Gold Edition.
Windows
Gamesplanet logo.svg
Icon overlay.png
Gold Edition.
Windows
Green Man Gaming
Icon overlay.png
Gold Edition.
Windows
Humble Store
Icon overlay.png
Gold Edition.
Windows
Steam
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Gold Edition.
Windows
Ubisoft Store
Icon overlay.png
Gold Edition also available. This edition is included with Ubisoft+.
Windows
Amazon.com (unavailable)
Icon overlay.png
Windows
Origin (unavailable)
Origin
Icon overlay.png
Deluxe Edition was also available.
Windows
All versions require Ubisoft Connect DRM.

Version differences

The Gold Edition is a complete edition containing the base game and all DLC.
The Deluxe Edition includes Aveline DLC, The Castaway's Prize and Illustrious Pirates Pack.
Freedom Cry is available as both DLC and a standalone game.

Monetization

DLC and expansion packs

Name Notes
Season Pass
Windows
Kraken Ship Pack Season Pass exclusive.
Windows
Freedom Cry Pack Also available as a standalone game.
Windows
The Castaway's Prize Deluxe and Gold Edition exclusive.
Windows
Aveline DLC Deluxe and Gold Edition exclusive.
Windows
Time saver: Resources Pack
Windows
Time saver: Collectibles Pack
Windows
Time saver: Activities Pack
Windows
Death Vessel Pack
Windows
Crusader & Florentine Pack
Windows
Time saver: Technology Pack
Windows
MP Character Pack: Blackbeard's Wrath
Windows
Illustrious Pirates Pack
Windows
Guild of Rogues
Windows

Essential improvements

Mods

4k Improved Story Characters

4k Improved Story Characters

Skip intro videos

File removal[citation needed]
  1. Go to the <path-to-game>.
  2. Go into videos (for single player) or multi\videos (for multiplayer).
  3. Rename, delete or move these files:
ubi_logo.bik
TWIMTBP.bik
abstergo_logo.bik
ac4bf_logo.bik
warning_disclaimer.bik
warning_disclaimer.bik is in a subfolder that corresponds with the set language.

DLC Not Showing Up In-Game

If you bought the game with all its DLC (the gold edition for example), the game might not show these DLC in-game. This can be seen through the Stay tuned for more adventures message in the main menu.
Enter And Exit The Multiplayer Mode[1]
While the multiplayer is loading, the game checks for Downloadable content, which means our dlc.
  1. Select Multiplayer from the main menu.
  2. Upon reaching the multiplayer menu, go back to the Singleplayer menu.
  3. Once back in the Singleplayer menu, the top-right box should now be replaced with Freedom Cry/Aveline.
If step 3 is not the case, repeat the previous steps.
Test if this fix is consistent by closing and relaunching the game.
Also works with already existing savegames.
This has to be done with every reinstall of the game.
Fix might not be possible when the servers are eventually shutdown.

If you cannot reach 60fps cap the framerate to 35fps

The game is not optimized to run above 30fps, therefore a lot of modern gaming systems (especially laptops) fail to reach and maintain 60fps.

Capping to 30fps provides a very choppy experience and 40fps provides a very stuttery experience. 35fps is much less stuttery than 40fps and is noticeably smoother than 30fps, therefore it is the recommended way to play if you cannot get 60fps. Information on various framerate capping tools can be found here but the recommended tool to use is RTSS.

Latest update breaking full screen fix

This "mod" fixes the full screen issues that the recent update introduced. This works for Steam and the Ubisoft Connect versions of the game.

Link to the fullscreen fix

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag\*.ini
%USERPROFILE%\Documents\Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag\GFXSettings.*.xml
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/242050/pfx/[Note 1]

Save game data location

System Location
Ubisoft Connect <Ubisoft-Connect-folder>\savegames\<user-id>\273\
Steam <Ubisoft-Connect-folder>\savegames\<user-id>\437\
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/242050/pfx/[Note 1]

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
Origin
Steam Cloud
Ubisoft Connect
Disabled in 2013.[2]

Video

Graphics settings.
Graphics settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
Anamorphic 16:9; use Flawless Widescreen to remove letterboxing.
Multi-monitor
Anamorphic 16:9;[3] use Flawless Widescreen. Or if using an AMD card just use Catalyst version 14.4
Ultra-widescreen
See the community page.
4K Ultra HD
Field of view (FOV)
Use jim2point0's cheat table (requires Cheat Engine).
Windowed
See Windowed.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
TXAA (Nvidia only), FXAA, SMAA (actually SMAA T2X) and MSAA/CSAA (also using FXAA).
Vertical sync (Vsync)
Double buffered. See FPS drops to 30 when Vsync is enabled for triple buffered v-sync.
60 FPS
Frame rate is capped at 63 FPS.
120+ FPS
See High frame rate.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.

Windowed

Run patcher[4]
  1. Download AC4 Window Mode Patcher.
  2. Copy it to the installation folder and launch it.
  3. Type y and press Enter to start patching.
Use WinExplorer[citation needed]
  1. Download WinExplorer.
  2. Run game and choose a resolution of your choice.
  3. Alt+Tab to the desktop.
  4. Open WinExplorer and select AC4 from list of running programs.
  5. Head over to style tab and tick WS_DISABLED and WS_CHILD checkboxes.

Notes

You may want to further customize the window style with WS_THICKFRAME, WS_BORDER or WS_DLGFRAME options

High frame rate

240 FPS Patch
  1. Download 240 FPS Patch
  2. Replace AC4BFSP.exe in <path-to-game>.

Input

Controls settings.
Controls settings.

Audio

Audio settings.
Audio settings.
General settings.
General settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Sliders for music, effects and voices.
Surround sound
Autodetection up to 5.1 setups.
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
Royalty free audio

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
Simplified Chinese
Czech
Danish
Dutch
Finnish
French
German
Hungarian
Italian
Japanese
Japanese Subtitles can only be enabled when the Interface/Menu Language is set to Japanese.
Norwegian
Polish
Portuguese
Brazilian Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Swedish
Turkish
Fan translation.

Network

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
LAN play
Online play
8

Connection types

VR support

3D modes State Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
Use Helix Mod: Assassins Creed 4 Black Flag.
vorpX
G3D
Officially supported game, see official vorpx game list.

Issues unresolved

Mouse and keyboard do not work

Might be related to either Logitech or Steam Controller drivers, as the game improperly detects the input device.[5]

Issues fixed

Missing Audio during combat

If game was bought as DLC instead of standalone copy, you will come across an issue where Adewale's Machete and various other weapon sounds appear to be silent which Ubisoft never released a proper fix.
Override DLC file[6][7][8]
  1. Download DataPC_10_dlc.forge
  2. Replace file located in <path-to-game>\dlc_10.
This may cause achievements, story progression and unlockables to be deemed as incomplete / locked unless file is reverted back to default.

Crash when installed in a Storage Space

The game will refuse to run when installed on a drive which is managed by a Storage Space on Windows 8 and later.
Creating a junction to the folder "sounddata" to a non-Windows Storage Space drive seems to solve the problem[citation needed]
Installing the Game on a drive that is not a Storage Space will fix this issue[citation needed]

Game freezes on AMD GPUs

This issue first manifests upon starting a new file when the game freezes on a black screen with the 'saving' icon.
Avoid using MSAA or EQAA[9]
Turn soft shadows off

The image freezes but the game still runs in the background

Sometimes the game might appear to be frozen, but you can still hear the sound and the HUD works.[10]
Enabling "Volumetric Fog" and / or disabling "FXAA" fixes the issue[citation needed]
"Volumetric Fog" may cause artifacts on screen edges in-game, Use Driver AA instead if MSAA is being used.[11]

FPS drops to 30 when Vsync is enabled

This is caused by lack of triple buffering in the game.
Use D3DOverrider to force triple buffering[12]
Don't force VSync in D3DOverrider, only triple buffering. Enable VSync in game options (or force it in Nvidia control panel or Nvidia Inspector).
If you're using SweetFX or another injector, this fix will not work. Use the workaround below.
Use RadeonPro to force triple buffering[citation needed]
  1. Download and install RadeonPro.
  2. Launch RadeonPro.
  3. Add a profile pointing to AC4BFSP.exe or AC4BFMP.exe.
  4. Select the exe profile by clicking on it.
  5. Go to the tweaks tab leave Vsync to driver default and check triple buffering.

Notes

Tested on Win8.1 with CFX 7970s.[citation needed]
Use Ctrl-Alt-Del workaround to force triple buffering[citation needed]
This method has only been tested on Windows 7 SP1 with an Nvidia graphics card and on Windows 10 with an AMD graphics card.
  1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
  2. Click the cancel button to return to your desktop.
  3. Go back to the game by clicking its icon on the taskbar.
Alt+Tab does NOT work.
This workaround makes possible the use of SweetFX or other injectors with triple buffering.

Nvidia PhysX performance issues on newer GPUs

Disable Nvidia PhysX in the in-game settings menu
Disable Shadowplay[13]
Change process affinity[13]
  1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to open Task Manager.
  2. Go to the Details tab.
  3. Right click ac4bfsp.exe and select "Set affinity".
  4. Uncheck the last CPU core and hit OK.
  5. Go back to the same menu and re-enable it.
  6. Close Task Manager.
Remove old PhysX files[13]
  1. Install updated PhysX drivers
  2. Go to the <path-to-game>
  3. Delete or rename PhysX3_x86.dll, PhysX3Common_x86.dll, PhysX3Cooking_x86.dll, PhysX3Gpu_x86.dll, PhysXDevice.dll

This will disable PhysX in the game. This has the same effect as simply disabling PhysX in the in-game menu.

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 11
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Audio Wwise [14]
Anti-cheat PunkBuster Used PunkBuster initially[15] but was eventually removed.[16]

System requirements

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) Vista SP2
Processor (CPU) Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 2.6 GHz
AMD Athlon II X4 620 2.6 GHz
System memory (RAM) 2 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 30 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce GTX 260
ATI Radeon HD 4870
512 MB of VRAM
Shader model 4.0 support
Sound (audio device) DirectX compatible
Supported video cards include: Nvidia GeForce GTX 260 or better, GT400, GT500, GT600, GT700 series or ATI Radeon HD4870 or better, HD5000, HD6000, HD7000 series.
Laptop graphics cards may work but are not officially supported.
Dual core processors will, despite the minimum requirements, most likely work.[17] (only LGA1150/LGA1155 dual core processors will, under most circumstances, deliver a playable frame rate - LGA775/LGA1156 and AM2/AM2+/AM3/FM1/FM2 dual core CPUs are unlikely to suffice due to significantly lower IPC)


Notes

  1. 1.0 1.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:

References

  1. Steam Forums: Missing DLC [Solution] - last accessed on 2023-06-02
  2. Ubisoft Customer Service Screenshot - last accessed on May 2023
  3. Assassin Creed 4 Black Flag - WSGF forums - last accessed on May 2023
  4. [GUIDE] Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag - Dead End Thrills - last accessed on 9 June 2023
  5. Verified by User:Suicide_machine on 2017-12-12
  6. Thread: IMPORTANT Assassin's Creed IV Freedom Cry Audio Bug during Combat Forums - last accessed on July 7, 2018
  7. Missing Sound Effects in Freedom Cry (PC) - last accessed on March 17, 2018
  8. Adewale's weapons make no sound - last accessed on March 24, 2018
  9. "Game freezing on black "saving" screen- Please help!" - Steam Community Discussions - last accessed on May 2023
  10. Steam Forums: AC4 freezes but the HUD still okay??? - last accessed on May 2023
  11. Steam Forums Post - last accessed on May 2023
  12. Verified by User:Blackbird on 2017-01-26
    Tested on W10 (1607)
  13. 13.0 13.1 13.2 (Finally) Assassins Creed 4 Physx Performance Fix!! - GeForce Forums
  14. http://satsun.org/audio/
  15. Even Balance, Inc. - PunkBuster Online Countermeasures - last accessed on 2018-09-04
    "Tue Nov 19 2013 12:00
    Ubisoft has contracted with Even Balance, Inc. to integrate our PunkBuster™ Anti-Cheat software into the online game known as Assassin's Creed® 4 Black Flag.
    "
  16. Verified by User:Aemony on 2018-09-04
    Installed the game and joined a multiplayer session. PunkBuster were nowhere to be seen.
  17. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag - PC Performance Analysis - last accessed on May 2023