Player versus Environment (or PvE, sometimes player versus monster, or PvM), is a gameplay distinction, in contrast with Player versus Player or PvP gameplay.
Player versus Environment is a type of gameplay common to RPG games in general. This is where the character engages in combat with AI-controlled computerized opponents, as opposed to PvP, where he engages with human players as opponents.
In Tales Of Pirates, PvE is the main type of gameplay. Though there are areas which are PvP enabled.
In PvE gameplay, your primary purpose is to "grow" your character, gain experience, earn Skill Points and Attribute Point, acquire better Weapons and Armor, etc.
This is done mainly by completing Quests and by venturing through the areas in Tales Of Pirates, both land and sea to fight Monsters.