Handheld gamers return to the age of sail in this 2002 trading adventure game from the recently consolidated Jaleco Entertainment. Hoist the mainsail and set off toward new mercantile opportunities, exploring the seas, establishing new trade routes, and growing rich. Players must beware of greedy pirates and be ready defend their ship if attacked. Or perhaps they may try a little brigandage of their own, attempting to relieve a poorly defended competitor's ship of its valuable cargo.
Sea Trader: Rise of Taipan features 36 different commodities, including some dangerous but profitable "black market" goods. Six different lands are available for exploration and exploitation. Players take full control of their vessels, choosing a First Mate from a selection of sailors and determining which ship upgrades to make, as well as deciding which ports to visit and which goods to trade.