Windward offers a plethora of gameplay possibilities.  Gamers who prefer a more relaxing adventure can explore the unmapped crystal blue oceans filled with detailed marine life, resolve conflict through diplomacy or make their mark as a master merchant.

Players looking to get their adrenaline pumping in high-stakes combat can join a crew of scurvy scallywags online and plunder together as pirates, ally with an in-game faction that protects an area or go rogue and send NPCs to Davy Jones' Locker in an immersive single player experience.

"After more than four years of development, and plenty of blood, sweat and tears, I am thrilled to say Windward has an official launch date," said Michael Lyashenko, founder, Tasharen Entertainment. "Every PC gamer can find something to love about the open world and endless possibilities of Windward, no matter what genres they love."

Specialization is key to survival and gaining an edge over the competition.  With more than 100 talents, players can focus on three separate skill trees.

• Defense - the ideal class for large ships.  Skills include the ability to turn faster, converting the vessel into a powerful turret on the open oceans, dealing more damage when standing still and increasing damage absorption as their health goes down.
• Offense - great for quick ships.  Offense enables increased agility, reducing the opponent's armor and greatly improving the damage done by allies.
• Support - the perfect team member.  The crew of support vessels specialize in repairing ships quickly and providing benefits to other nearby allies - like putting out fires, repairing other ships to a greater extent than their own crews can and forcing enemies to get closer before they can attack.

Windward will be available as digital download through Steam for $14.99.