Choosing Between Irontide and Bloodsail: A Look Into the Pirates of World of Warcraft

Patch 10.2.6 has brought a lot of excitement to the World of Warcraft community with the introduction of a new and unique event. While details about this event have been kept under wraps, there are some clues that suggest pirates may play a role in this patch. One of these clues is the pirate flag associated with the patch. As we eagerly await the opportunity to experience this event ourselves, let's take a moment to delve into the world of pirates in Azeroth and explore their stories.

The Infamous Captain Nightsquall

One pirate that deserves mention is Captain Nightsquall, a character we first heard about during Patch 10.0.7, Return to the Forbidden Reach. According to the lore book "Return of the Nightsquall," this infamous night elf pirate captain had been missing for many years after sailing west. The western ocean was believed to be treacherous, with violent storms that destroyed any ships that attempted to cross it. Many thought the Nightsquall had met his demise. However, the book reveals that he has returned with his ships filled to the brim with unimaginable treasures.

What's more, the Nightsquall is said to have set his sights on a new prize and is recruiting pirates from all factions - Irontide, Bloodsail, Defias, and Freebooter - to join his cause. This intriguing story has sparked speculation that Patch 10.2.6 may involve a storyline centered around Captain Nightsquall.

When the lore book was first discovered, it ignited a flurry of speculation within the community. Many linked the Nightsquall's voyage west to Avaloren, a mysterious land mentioned in another Dragonflight lore book. However, Blizzard seemed surprised by the number of theories that emerged from just one in-game book. Eventually, it was confirmed by Mike Ybarra that pirates would not play a major role in "The War Within," but an event involving the Nightsquall would still make sense for Patch 10.2.6.

If Captain Nightsquall has indeed discovered new lands beyond the treacherous storms, it would explain why pirates from all factions are willing to follow him. Let's take a closer look at some of the pirate factions mentioned in the lore book.

The Irontide Raiders

The Irontide Raiders were first introduced during the events of Battle for Azeroth. Originally, they were part of Captain Flynn Fairwind's crew, but Flynn abandoned piracy after a job went wrong. Left without a captain, Harlan Sweete, Flynn's first mate, gathered the most ruthless members of the crew to form the Irontide Raiders.

Under Harlan Sweete's leadership, the Irontide Raiders became known for their merciless ways, only recruiting those who showed a lack of compassion. They allied with the Ashvane Trading Company and participated in an attempted coup of Kul Tiras during the Battle for Azeroth expansion. However, Flynn Fairwind himself rallied adventurers to defeat his former first mate and reclaim Freehold, the once lawless pirate haven now under the rule of the Irontide Raiders.

Currently, it's unclear who leads the Irontide Raiders, but they have answered Captain Nightsquall's call. Irontide pirates can be found in the Forbidden Reach, following his orders to uncover the secrets of the Dragon Isles.

The Bloodsail Buccaneers

The Bloodsail Buccaneers are perhaps the most infamous pirates in Azeroth. They have a notorious reputation for their bloodthirsty nature, even attacking other pirate crews. Booty Bay, a pirate city, has been their target multiple times, although the Blackwater Raiders, another pirate faction, offers protection to the city. Even today, players can be seen building their Bloodsail reputation by attacking NPCs in Booty Bay.

After the Cataclysm, the Bloodsail Buccaneers were led by Bloodsail Admiral Eliza Goreblade, who discovered the Dreadblades - powerful cutlasses created by a Legion eredar with the purpose of corrupting mortals. Eliza envisioned herself as the leader of the largest pirate fleet, conquering all the seas and nations of Azeroth. Under her command, the Bloodsail crew became a dreaded force, slaughtering anyone they encountered.

Over time, as the power of the Dreadblades grew, Eliza's crew transformed. Their bodies withered away, leaving behind only undead skeletons. However, other Bloodsail Buccaneers intervened, and one of their rogue champions was sent to kill Eliza and claim the Dreadblades. This ended her reign of terror, and the Bloodsail Buccaneers around Booty Bay made peace with the city, aligning themselves with the Uncrowned, a secret Rogue order.

The Blackwater Raiders

The Blackwater Raiders are a pirate faction based in Booty Bay, under their protection. They have a reputation for being honorable and only resorting to violence when necessary. The Blackwater Raiders are closely affiliated with the goblin organization known as the Steamwheedle Cartel, which controls Booty Bay and other towns across Azeroth.

During the events of the Cataclysm, some members of the Blackwater Raiders were in Gilneas when it closed its borders. These members were infected with the Worgen curse. One such Worgen, known as "Good Boy" Bruce, left the Blackwater Raiders and joined the Bloodsail Buccaneers. Players had the option to kill Bruce and deliver his coin to Fleet-Master Seahorn, who mourned the loss of his old friend.

Despite their reputation for being honorable, the Blackwater Raiders are still pirates and should be approached cautiously. One famous Blackwater Raider is Catelyn the Blade, who formed an unlikely friendship with Li Li and Chen Stormstout after stealing the Pearl of Pandaria from Li Li. While Li Li has yet to officially join the Blackwater Raiders, she has enjoyed her time traveling with Catelyn on her ship.

The North & Southsea Freebooters

The Southsea Freebooters are a pirate group commonly found in central Kalimdor, while the Northsea Freebooters are located in Northrend. Despite their shared name, these groups despise each other, with the Southsea Freebooters being the larger and original faction.

The Southsea Freebooters frequently cause trouble in areas like the Barrens, Thousand Needles, and Tanaris. They are particularly disliked by the goblins of Ratchet. These pirates have even been spotted exploring various islands such as the Timeless Isle in Pandaria, Azsuna in the Broken Isles, and the islands in the island expeditions of Battle for Azeroth.

On the other hand, the Northsea Freebooters are known for their criminal activities and ruthless tendencies. After raiding an ancient vrykul burial ground, the Northsea Freebooters found themselves haunted by cursed artifacts and vengeful spirits. Their former leader, Jonah Sterling, was driven insane by one of these artifacts. They were even hired by Warlord Zaela to attack the Temple of the White Tiger during Garrosh's trial.

Since then, the Northsea Freebooters have undergone a change in leadership, with pirate Annie Bonn taking control after orchestrating Jonah Sterling's demise. Nowadays, they are more of a nuisance rather than a monstrous force.

Timecap'n Hooktail

No exploration of pirates in Azeroth would be complete without mentioning Captain Caulle Whiphook, also known as Timecap'n Hooktail. This pirate queen from Kul Tiras had a surprising secret - she was an Infinite Dragon in disguise. Her crew discovered her true nature when the Broker So'leah stole an artifact from her, which was linked to the ruins of the Black Empire.

Although we defeated this Infinite Pirate Dragon, Captain Caulle Whiphook's memory remains a fascinating part of Azeroth's pirate lore. Perhaps in the future, she may make a surprising comeback, mastering the art of dragonriding.

• Final Thoughts

Patch 10.2.6 has set the stage for an exciting new event, shrouded in mystery and hints of pirates. While Captain Nightsquall and his recruitment of pirates from various factions play a prominent role in this patch, there are many other pirate groups and individuals who have left their mark on the world of Azeroth. As we eagerly await the unfolding of this unique event, let's embrace the spirit of adventure and prepare ourselves for an unforgettable journey on the high seas.

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