Ubisoft phasing out online pass program, will be free for Assassin's Creed 4

Ubisoft plans to phase out its Uplay Passport and will offer one as a free download for Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, according to a post today on the Ubisoft blog.

Those who purchase Black Flag but don't have a Uplay Passport will be able to download one free through PlayStation Network and Xbox Live to play the Edward’s Fleet and other multiplayer modes.

A report earlier this week said that Ubisoft would require a Uplay Passport in Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag even for some single-player missions. Ubisoft communications manager Gary Steinman explained the decision as based in part on player feedback.

"The Uplay Passport program was initiated as a means of giving customers full access and support for online multiplayer and features, along with exclusive content, bonuses and rewards," Steinman wrote. "However, games today are blurring the line between offline and online, between what is 'single player' and what is 'multiplayer.' Based on that and on the feedback we received from you, we recognized that Passport is no longer the best approach for ensuring that all our customers have the best possible experience with all facets of our games."

For more on Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, be sure to check out Polygon's review.