Greetings Mercenaries!
When we started working on Wartales, navigation was something we had in mind and wanted to bring to the game. However, we chose to focus on the fundamental foundations of the game: mercenary work, the camp and exploration, leading to rich and varied systems. This flexible yet solid base has enabled us to consolidate the Wartales universe and its very identity!
Designing a navigation system was always going to be an exhilarating and challenging task! It's very much linked to the concept of freedom, exploration and a surprising desire for wild plundering. We wanted to give you the feeling that you could set off on a maritime adventure with your companions, with your own upgradable boat, and that the waves would gently rock said ship. Pirates, storms and sea creatures, but also duels, fishing and ballistas are all part of the equation! We've distilled the best possible vintage of what sailing in Wartales would be like, and are now ready to present it to you!
A sailor’s best ally is the wind. Each area has its specific wind conditions, and you will be able to map them all. Enabling you to always pick the fastest route and use the winds at your advantage. Beware, though: in case of a tempest, their directions may vary. You’ll probably want to adapt your gear so that your ship is more versatile. And if that’s not enough, you’ll be able to maintain your speed by rowing.
Sailing will allow you to explore the seas and set foot on remote islands. You’ll be able to disembark on any littoral with an accessible beach. Have you discovered uncharted territory? Are you visiting one of the bustling stops on the merchants’ trade route? Or have you just trespassed on smugglers’ territory ? You should always stay vigilant, for the territory of Belerion is vast and full of surprises…
It is also filled with pirates. And although sailing is enjoyable in itself, you’re not here for the fun of it, soon you’ll have to defend yourselves. For this purpose, there’s one special tool you’ll be able to use: the ballista, which can help you weaken rival ships, and who knows what else.
Sailing is already a lot faster than running, but we wanted to give you more. As you progress in Belerion’s setting, take down rivals and find treasures (more info on this in the next article :) ), you’ll be able to significantly improve your vessel.
First, you’ll learn how to craft new parts to upgrade your ship. It’s composed of several components, and each of them can be upgraded. Better yet, each component comes in different shapes, and you can choose which one suits you the most depending on the playstyle you prefer. For example, changing the shape of your sails will change the types of winds that will help your ship reach its maximum speed.
In addition to material upgrades, you’ll also learn special sailing abilities. Most of these are secret techniques invented by famous Sea Lords, and it is by defeating these lords of the sea that you’ll put your hands on their well-kept knowledge. Some of these abilities will help you sail faster or more safely, while others will give you specific bonuses while fighting at sea.
Another way to master the art of navigation is to assign companions to different roles on your ship. Obviously, you’ll need a pilot, but an artilleryman and watchman are also essential components of a crew. A drummer could also help keep your oarsmen motivated and synchronized. Finally, a fisherman can be assigned and will cast nets in the ocean to catch exotic fish for your troop.
Now that you have your crew ready, your boat prepared, your ballista loaded, your abilities mastered and wind in your sails, there’s nothing stopping you from exploring the many islands of Belerion, uncharted or not, and discovering the many treasures that await you in this new territory.
As always, let us know what you think of the upcoming features! Join our awesome (and passionate) Wartales community on our Discord server, Reddit page as well as Twitter.
