More than a year in the making, Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean massive multiplayer online game, Pirates of the Carribbean Online (www.PiratesOnline.com), goes live today.

The virtual world based on Disney’s multi-billion dollar film franchise aims to accommodate thousands of players looking to experience the adventures made famous on-screen, and explore aspects only touched upon in the films in greater detail.

Players will have the chance to create their own pirate characters and ships, acquire advance weapons, use Voodoo magic, accumulate booty and interact with iconic characters Jack Sparrow and Will Turner.

The game was produced by Disney Online and is downloadable directly from the website. The House of Mouse is employing a pay-to-play subscription model, but is offering a portion of the game for free to drive consumer interest. Unlimited access subscriptions cost US$4.95 for the first month, with the rate going up to US$9.95 for subsequent months.