One of the most ambitious games released so far this year, Sid Meier’s Pirates! (iTunes link) is a swashbuckling new title fully optimized for the iPad 2 from developer 2K Games.

Set sail and captain 27 fully-decked out old-world pirate ships in Sid Meier’s Pirates! Upgrade your weapons, cannons and ammo to build the most powerful battleship on the high-seas.

Uncover hidden treasure maps and embark on dangerous and daring missions to lay siege to ports across the land, recruiting a rag-tag crew of smarmy buccaneers as you go. You can also take charge in anumber of minigames including sword fighting, ship combat and dancing.

Featuring a control system optimized for the iPad, you can swashbuckle your way to victory over some of the most famous pirates, including Blackbeard, Captain Kidd and Henry Morgan.

Stay tuned for our full review of Sid Meier’s Pirates!