Uncharted 4 release date, special collector's editions announced

Uncharted 4: A Thief's End launches for PS4 in North America on March 18, 2016, Sony announced today.

The latest game in the Naughty Dog series was expected out by the end of March after it was included in a slide during an investors briefing for the fiscal year that runs through March 2016. It had been set for release this year, but it was delayed back in March 2015.

Alongside the release date, Sony also detailed two physical, limited edition versions of Uncharted 4: the special edition ($80) and Libertalia collector's edition ($120). You can see the contents of these below, courtesy of the PlayStation Blog.

Special Edition contents:

• Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Blu-ray Disc
• Collectible Steelbook case designed by Alexander "That Kid Who Draws" Iaccarino
• 48-page hardcover art book by Dark Horse and Naughty Dog
• Naughty Dog & Pirate Sigil sticker sheet
• Naughty Dog Points: A pack of in-game currency to unlock various multiplayer content

• Everything included in the Special Edition
• A 12-inch premium Nathan Drake statue by Gentle Giant
• Three multiplayer outfits: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, Heist Drake, and Desert Drake outfits
• Two custom weapon skins: Golden Weapon Skin and Desert Weapon Skin
• Henry Avery Sigil ball cap
• Madagascar Sidekick outfits

Those intending to buy the game digitally from the PlayStation Store also have a special edition of sorts to purchase called the digital deluxe edition, which is priced at $80. If you've already preordered the standard edition, you can upgrade to this version by paying the difference of $20.

Digital Deluxe Edition contents:

• A digital copy of Uncharted 4: A Thief's End
• Uncharted 4 Triple Pack: Includes future access to the first-ever, single-player story add-on for the Uncharted series and two multiplayer packs that will unlock new, rare and legendary multiplayer items
• Instant unlock of two multiplayer customization items

Sony says the Triple Pack will be available for purchase as DLC, so you won't need to buy a copy of the game digitally in order to get your hands on it.

Finally, Sony revealed various preorder bonuses which, unfortunately, vary by retailer. Here's what's available:

• Preorder at GameStop to receive the Multiplayer Booster Pack to instantly unlock a variety of one-time use multiplayer boosts, and The Phurba Dagger Taunt based on the iconic symbol from Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.
• Preorder at Amazon to receive the Snow Camo weapon customization and the Desert Drake outfit multiplayer customization.
• Preorder via PlayStation Store to receive the Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Dynamic Theme and the Desert Weapon customization.

Naughty Dog says the power of the PS4 has removed constraints it had in the past, allowing it to "go crazy" with the game's visuals. The game marks the end of series protagonist Nathan Drake's story.