Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag follows the pirate captain Edward Kenway, who becomes an Assassin.
Edward is a Welsh privateer who turns to piracy in the early eighteenth century. He becomes involved in the Assassin–Templar conflict after taking the identity and clothing of Duncan Walpole, a Templar-bound Assassin. Edward initially pursues wealth and notoriety rather than the Brotherhood's ideals, but his experiences gradually change his priorities.
The game is set largely in the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. Edward sails the Jackdaw, explores islands and colonial cities, and encounters historical pirates including Blackbeard, Anne Bonny, and Calico Jack. These figures are part of the game's historical setting, but Edward is its playable central character.
Edward is also the father of Haytham Kenway and the grandfather of Ratonhnhaké:ton, linking Black Flag to Assassin's Creed III. This family connection is a common reason players confuse the Kenway characters. Edward's story is presented before the events of Assassin's Creed III, although Black Flag was released later.