Pirates

«	This is the tale of Vaas's pirate hordes, who came to the island to rape, pillage and steal. They wanted one thing, they wanted money and it would be theirs, no matter the cost. Vaas holds court, the Jester of Rook Island, but is your machete what lies in store?	»
Survival Guide

The Pirates are a criminal and paramilitary organization in Far Cry 3, The Far Cry Experience, and Far Cry VR located on the Rook Islands' northern island. They are led by the insane and psychotic Vaas Montenegro. Fueled by the lust for money, they came to the Rook Islands to rape, pillage, steal, and murder.

They are the first enemy faction that Jason Brody encounters and can usually be found patrolling the island or at outposts, easily distinguishable by their bright red clothing, unlike the Rakyat, Privateers and common villagers.

The Pirates hold a grudge against the Rakyat, and these factions will attack each other on sight. They have an unsteady alliance with Hoyt Volker's Privateers, but this alliance is broken when Jason kills Vaas. The Pirates have lower quality weapons and equipment than the Privateers. Despite being pirates, they cannot swim and will die from drowning if they fall into water, just like the Rakyat and Privateers.

Pirates are not exceptionally skilled fighters; they are prone to firing randomly into the bushes or throwing grenades at random in hopes of flushing Jason into the open. Some Pirates are less perceptive and may take longer to detect dangers up close, such as explosives or enemies approaching from behind. After the events of Far Cry 3, they are eliminated by the Rakyat due to their very poor training and tactics. Most likely any remaining pirates return to their countries of origin.

Origin[]

«	It is by my grace that your head isn't impaled on the antenna of my car!	»
Hoyt to Vaas, about fufilling his orders.

The Pirates as a faction can be traced to small, unorganised bands of opportunistic thugs that took advantage of the Rook Islands' lack of government and law enforcement to pillage, murder, and commit crimes against the populace in order to make money. Thriving off the black market's products to become well-armed and well-equipped, they committed crimes on a small scale, but didn't expand beyond small gangs.

However, under the leadership of Vaas, they grew exponentially more powerful, setting up organised infrastructure and strongpoints throughout the islands, and in return of being supplied with weapons and ammo, they grew drugs and captured people to sell into slavery for their patron, Hoyt Volker, who Vaas reports to.

Business Model[]

«	After the money from the parents shows up, the kids go onto the black market, and we deliver them to buyers.	»
A Pirate, about their operation of hostage-taking.

The Pirates are considerably more dangerous than the average criminals, with access to a wide armoury of weapons and armour. However, they also have access to infrastructure.

In their day-to-day operations:

Extort the local population and execute those who resist to reduce support for the local Rakyat.
Suppress the Rakyat Resistance wherever possible through land and sea patrols.
Repair or salvage local vehicles or wrecks in order to keep their Scavengers, Technicals, and RHIBs functional.
Maintain communications and security to keep the Rakyat in check by guarding the Medusa, Radio Towers, Vaas' fortress, and Outposts across the island.
Grow and smuggle drugs such as Marijuana and PCP taken from recipes on memory cards provided by drug cartels in order to satisfy their patron.
Take 'tourists' or unlucky locals captive in order to either ransom them (the former) or just immediately sell them into slavery via Hoyt's network (the latter).

Weapons and Tactics[]

The Pirates have access to a wide variety of weapons found on Rook Island, most of them bought legally/illegally, stolen, or traded from arms merchants. They also have access to a wide variety of vehicles.

They use a wide variety of weapons, ranging from simple machetes used by Beheaders, to heavy LMGs such as the PKM, wielded by the Pirate Heavy Gunner.
Lower ranking members often wear no or little protective equipment, such as tank tops, cargo trousers, and WW2-era Sling Vests.
Higher ranking members often wear black body armour, often patched up with duct tape, and sometimes even helmets made from welding masks.
Mid-level leaders ae often seen wearing green berets and minor body armour.
Leaders can immediately be distinguished from other Pirates by their yellow symbol, red berets, and use of heavy armour.
They generally seem to prefer Scavengers, Technicals, and RHIBs for patrols and business around the island, marked with their symbol, fitting with their nature as loosely organised marauders.
However, they do possess some helicopters, patrol boats, and other heavy vehicles such as trucks for their industries.

However, Pirates generally have a poor grasp of military tactics compared to the Privateers, but their knowledge outranks the Rakyat in that regard.

They generally have poor detection strategies, often pouring automatic fire and grenades into suspected opponents in attempts to force them into the open, even if their opponents are gone.
This can also be seen by their sparse guarding of outposts and the Medusa communications dish even after Jason begins to wage war on the Pirates.
They also have poor discipline, inconsistently making guard patrols in outposts, and instead spend time relaxing, drinking, or complaining.
However, they do have a most disciplined patrol schedule, as patrols can be found fairly frequently, most likely in a vehicle, but sometimes on foot.
They also respond if they hear gunfire, explosions, or a wild animal attack, and will rush to assist.

Notable Members[]

Vaas Montenegro (Leader)
Doug (Spotter)
Felipe

Types[]

There are multiple types of Pirates, each have different skills and weaknesses:

Quick Review Table[]

«	Assaulters are common thugs armed with basic weaponry. They are a force to be reckoned with when in large numbers.	»
User Manual

Assaulters are standard pirates, who are usually found patrolling the island. Many are found enjoy drinking or enjoying downtime when not patrolling.

Strategic Data

Standard Pirates armed with Assault Rifles that use rush tactics.

They wear no armour, and have little health.

Most common standard pirate, and a good source of ammo.

Often found supporting heavier pirates in larger battles.

Easy to suppress, and have terrible blind fire accuracy.

Elites have better accuracy, but no armour.

Bosses are tough enemies that are smarter and can take more hits.

Bosses can survive roughly twice the damage regulars can.

«	Armed with only a machete, these unstable individuals will make a run straight to you. Take them out quick.	»
User Manual

Beheaders are sadistic and unstable psychopaths that use machetes. They are among the most sadistic Pirates. Many are found terrorising the locals, or testing out their machetes on nearby trees when not attacking anyone within sight.

Strategic Data

Beheaders are rush troops that disregard using cover and any sort of armour in order for a clear attack to be made.

They do high damage and are extremely fast.

Powerful weapons are ideal for taking them out, as is distance.

This unit is unique to the Pirates, and does not have an equivalent in the Privateers (Privateer version was cut from final game).

«	Armed with powerful short range weapons, these troops will move in close before trying to punch through your defenses.	»
User Manual

Beserkers are aggressive and often have anger problems. Many see fighting as their way of living. They often spar with each other, or drink when they’re not working.

Strategic Data

Beserkers are short range units that attempt to chase enemies down to attack from close range

They favour a reckless approach and are actually extremely common.

If possible take them out from range as they are extremely fast and not to be underestimated in early-to-mid game, especially when accompanied by ranged pirates.

«	Defenders can soak up more bullets thanks to their light armor.	»
User Manual

Defenders are more seasoned Pirates that are calmer in battle. Some serve as squad leaders, and rally their groups. Some serve as Pirate bosses over an area.

Strategic Data

Defenders are more efficient troopers, known for their efficiency in battle.

Defenders hang back in battle, taking opportunistic shots and not charging in recklessly.

They are equipped with better gear and training than assaulters, and are common enemies.

Their body armor allows them to take more damage, but they are vulnerable to headshots.

They often work in conjunction with Pirate Assaulters or Berserkers.

Elites have better accuracy, but have same durability.

Bosses are extremely tough with better armour and accuracy than elites.

Bosses can survive 15-20 body shots from North Island weapons.

«	Armed with RPG-7 weapons, these guys are technically anti-armor troops, but with an absence of tanks on Rook Islands, they're just happy to blow shit up.	»
User Manual

RPGs are reckless individuals who use RPGs in combat. Many dislike the assignment because the rocket launchers require careful maintenance, which takes time.

Strategic Data

RPGs are mid-range fighters that attempt to line up their RPG with players.

They are devastating, but are slow to line up their shots.

Avoid using vehicles with these enemies as vehicles are one shots to their RPGs.

«	Armed with a brutal light machine gun and heavily armored, these men are the embodiment of terror. Take them on if you dare.	»
User Manual

Gunners are the walking tanks of the Pirates. Most were selected for their size and ability to control an LMG. Many see themselves as superior, and have extreme superiority complexes.

Strategic Data

Gunners are the walking tanks of the Pirates.

Heavily armoured, they use constant gunfire to overwhelm opponents.

However, their welding masks are not full face - they are unprotected at the back.

Prime target for a sniper shot or arrow kill.

If heavy beatdown is unlocked, they can be taken down.

They are extremely slow, so running away is not a bad idea if needed.

Try to gain an angle from above, as takedowns are much easier.

Found mostly in missions or some of the bigger outposts.

«	Clad in heavy fireproof armor, these men are as strong as oxes and take great pleasure in burning everything they can to a fiery crisp. Countless civilians have died at their hands.	»
User Manual

Gunners are the walking tanks of the Pirates. Most were selected for their size and ability to carry a lot of weight. Many see their burning as art forms, or just enjoy burning everything in sight.

Strategic Data

Flamers are the walking tanks of the Pirates.

Heavily armoured, they use fire to confuse and destroy opponents.

They wear heavy armor including helmets.

These guys have fuel tanks which can be targeted.

If heavy beatdown is unlocked, they can be taken down.

FOUND ONLY IN MULTIPLAYER, NOT FOUND IN CAMPAIGN.

«	Permanently high on their own supply, these pyromaniacs need no excuse to start a fire.	»
User manual

Throwers are erratic and unreliable fighters who use Molotovs in combat. Many are premanent alcoholics, and usually end up burning down whole swaths of jungle. Many are suspected in cases of arson.

Strategic Data

Molotov Throwers are throwers who use Molotovs to flush players out of cover.

They may seem drunk, but are alert, so don’t be fooled.

Shooting their Molotovs on their chest will cause them and the entire area around them to be set on fire, allowing for crowd control.

They often end up setting entire areas on fire.

They have pistols but never use them.

«	These long range specialists support their allies from a distance with high caliber sniper rifles. Keep an eye out for their telltale laser sights.	»
User Manual

Snipers are the Pirate lookouts and support fighters. Many prefer the distance from combat, and enjoy the superior range.

Strategic Data

Pirate Snipers are long range fighters who use SVDs to whittle down enemy combatants.

Often seen as lookouts, they are much more perceptive than other Pirate members.

They lack armour and can easily be recognised by their red headscarves.

Not powerless up close, stealth is the advised course of action for these enemies.

Bosses are found in Wanted Dead missions and can take some more damage than standard Snipers.

Mission appearances[]

Make a Break for It
Secure the Outpost
The Medusa's Call
Playing the Spoiler
Prison Break-in
Island Port Hotel
Kick the Hornet's Nest
A Man Named Hoyt
Saving Oliver
Piece of the Past
Down in the Docks
The Motherlode
Lin Cong I Presume
Ambush (Vaas Montenegro)
Warrior Rescue Service
Payback
Fly South
Three Blind Mice
Defusing the Situation
Every Outpost on the North Island
Every Wanted Dead mission on the North Island
Every Trial of the Rakyat

Trivia[]

They seem to be from numerous parts of the Pacific, Africa and even the Americas. Specifically Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, and The Philippines.
Their insignia looks like a white eye with a dot for pupil and three small spikes for eyelashes, it can be seen on the flag in hostile outposts and their Scavengers.
Wearing the Privateer outfit in plain view of the pirates will have no effect on them. The outfit is specifically meant for the Privateers only, so the Pirates will still classify you as an enemy.
Occasionally, as a random event, the Pirates can be seen getting into a face-to-face confrontation with Hoyt's Privateers on the South Island airport. However, if the Pirates detect Jason, both Privateer and Pirate soldiers will attack him, regardless of what Jason is wearing.
Pirates can be found outside of Vaas's personal compound after Payback, but Rakyat warriors will spawn inside the compound.
Pirates do not seem to have a main spawn point, thus meaning they cannot be easily located, unless the player partakes in a WANTED: Dead mission. Until the player captures all of the outposts on the North Island, Pirates can, however, be found fairly frequently patrolling the roads and waterways. Some Pirates can also be found at the docks where the player rescues Oliver Carswell from the "Saving Oliver" mission.
Some pirates can be seen cleaning their weapons, drinking, and doing other things (such as urinating excessively).
If one listens to their dialogue, pirates will humorously tell of their sexually transmitted diseases caught from local prostitutes.
They will also complain about the heat and how sick they are of Rook Island, saying inter alia that the island and everyone on it "can burn in Hell" and that the Rebels can have the Island. They will occasionally say "somebody just fucking shoot me!", which is ironic since the player listening to the dialogue is likely to kill them.
Pirates are only occasionally seen sailing boats. "Pirate" is likely just a generic term used on the island for any member of Vaas's gang.
Pirates like strippers. Strippers are seen in the mission Payback, and some pirates say: "Whoever this is, it better be a stripper." when distracted with a rock thrown by the player.
In a random encounter, the player will find a seemingly dead pirate spread-eagled on the ground, but upon closer inspection, he will get up and try to kill you. It is likely that this is a glitch.
Pirates also seem to enjoy hot sauce. When there are some pirates sitting around a spit roast, one will often say, "Everything here tastes like crap without hot sauce.", or, "Who the fuck used all the hot sauce?"
Their dialogue is referenced to during an Armed Escort mission in Far Cry 4, where, upon completion (delivering medicine), the Truck driver will say "Thank God. Now the soldiers will stop complaining about how it burns when they piss". The burning piss line, “It burns like a mother when I piss, should’ve used a rubber (condom)!”, is commonly heard among patrolling pirates.
They will sometimes meet up with the Privateers, a random place on the South Island, sometimes they will try to provoke the Privateers and make them shoot them, by saying things like "I'm not scared of you, Soldierboy." and "C'mon give it to me, Soldierboy," to which a Privateer may answer "Take it easy, we’re on the same side." This shows that they are not fearful of the Privateers. This can be watched here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qm7FjuvbW7s)
They have similar behaviour to the Royal Army in Far Cry 4.
Sometimes, Pirate (except for Heavy Gunners) can be heard shouting "You are in for a world of pain!". This could be an Easter egg reference to the movie character Walter Sobchak's quote "You are entering a world of pain!" from the movie The Big Lebowski.
Pirate Assaulters and one Defender appears in Far Cry 6: Insanity DLC. Mostly are corpses of Assaulters, while a Defender or Defender Boss is seen in a vision along with Assaulters and Vaas.