Players of Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced are now hunting for more than treasure – they want adorable pets to accompany them aboard the Jackdaw. Cats and monkeys not only beautify the deck but also provide subtle gameplay benefits. This guide details how to acquire the four available pets—Soot the Cat, Albert the Monkey, Dark Animus Familiar and Gold Tom—and how to make them permanent ship mascots.

Why a Pet Matters: Gameplay and Atmosphere

Having a living creature on your vessel creates a more immersive maritime experience. Cats exude calm, while monkeys add a dash of mischief, helping to reduce player fatigue during long voyages. The Dark Animus Familiar even grants occasional data fragments, turning a cosmetic choice into a strategic asset.

Locating Soot the Cat

Start by visiting your hideout in Great Inagua. The hideout becomes accessible after Sequence 04 – “This Old Cove”. Shortly thereafter, a map icon for the Cat Distribution System appears. Head to coordinates 819,441, climb onto the rooftops, and you’ll spot Soot the Cat. Interact with the feline to unlock it as a permanent pet.

Rescuing Albert the Monkey

Albert resides in a Havana side‑quest titled Monkey Business. The quest marker sits at coordinates 225,568 near the southeastern docks. Infiltrate the Spanish ship docked there, eliminate the sailors mistreating the monkey, and rescue Albert. Once freed, he joins your pet roster.

Dark Animus Familiar via Animus Projects

This digital companion is the first reward of the Eye in the Dark project and costs 600 Data Fragments. Complete the Anomaly side missions displayed on the world map to accumulate the required fragments. After purchase through the Animus menu, select the Familiar in your inventory to have it appear on the Jackdaw.

Gold Tom – The Deluxe Edition Bonus

Owners of the Deluxe Edition receive the Master Assassin Naval Pack, which includes the legendary‑tier pet Gold Tom, a ship wheel, and a figurehead. No extra quests are needed; the pet is granted automatically, adding a touch of opulence to your vessel.

Broader Treasure‑Hunting Strategy

While securing pets, seasoned players should also chase other collectibles—Mayan Stelae, Treasure Maps, and the “What If” Rifts. These items deepen narrative context and often reward extra resources. Integrating pet acquisition with broader exploration maximizes both aesthetic pleasure and in‑game advantage.