Rare Entertainment has announced a new subscription service for Sea of Thieves, launching in early 2026. The long-requested feature brings custom servers and private gameplay options to the popular pirate adventure game.
This subscription model introduces a “private customisable sandbox” with adjustable loot spawns and enemy encounters, finally giving players control over their Sea of Thieves experience.
Sea of Thieves Subscription Service Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | Early 2026 |
| Custom Servers | Private customizable sandbox |
| Safer Seas Fleets | Invite friends without random players |
| Adjustable Settings | Control loot and enemy spawns |
| Pricing | Not yet announced |
| Additional Benefits | Unannounced features coming |
What Custom Servers Offer
The subscription service addresses a core community request by allowing players to create private servers free from hostile random encounters. Players can invite friends to “Safer Seas Fleets,” eliminating the unpredictable nature of public servers.
Custom servers feature adjustable options for loot distribution and enemy spawns, giving players unprecedented control over their pirate adventures. This addresses long-standing concerns about griefing and allows for more relaxed gameplay experiences.
Season 17 and Monthly Updates
Rare also detailed Season 17, which introduces The Smugglers’ League faction and adopts a new monthly content structure. Instead of dumping all content at season launch, updates will roll out monthly with fresh events and features.
Season 17’s three-month roadmap includes The Smugglers’ League introduction, a “heist” live event, and refreshed Skeleton Forts. Season 18 will focus on the challenging Devil’s Roar area.
Community and Development Changes
Following recent Microsoft layoffs that affected Rare, the studio is working to reassure players about Sea of Thieves’ future. The developers are lifting the NDA from the Insider Programme, marking a “first step” toward greater community engagement.
The subscription service represents Rare’s commitment to evolving Sea of Thieves while addressing player feedback about private gameplay options.
FAQs
When will the Sea of Thieves subscription service launch?
The subscription service featuring custom servers is scheduled to launch in early 2026.
How much will the Sea of Thieves subscription cost?
Rare has not announced pricing details for the subscription service yet.
