E3 06: Pirates of the Caribbean Online sets sail in 2007

It appears as though gamers can stash that eye patch--for now. Disney Online's upcoming massively multiplayer online role-playing game, Pirates of the Caribbean Online, won't be walking the plank to retail waters in 2006. According to the game's Web site and a statement from Disney, the MMORPG will now plunder stores in 2007.

The game was originally scheduled to ship alongside the theatrical release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest this summer. However, the new release date doesn't mean that the game won't have the benefit of a major motion picture tie-in. The game will launch sometime in 2007, which is also when the third Pirates of the Caribbean movie hits theaters.

In the game, players interact with characters from the films as they strive to become the Caribbean's most infamous pirate. Disney is sailing into uncharted waters, claiming that Pirates of the Caribbean Online will be the first MMOG "designed for kids and families." No matter who is playing, they'll have to have a steady income as Pirates will be charging a monthly fee.

Disney also announced that Pirates of the Caribbean Online will be on display at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo. No rating or pricing of the game has yet been revealed, but given Disney's knack for family fare, don't expect an M-for-Mature tag.