Hello, Captains!
As previously announced, we are now updating the game with 3D ship models for all ships except those in the Asian scenario.
The reason this system is being applied before the campaign mode is that it serves as a prerequisite for the ship upgrade and refit systems planned for the campaign. These include various research systems, crew abilities, officer skills, and other related mechanics.
The Asian ships are also planned to be updated within next week.
In addition, many of the physical systems were already implemented in the existing 2D version, but by moving to 3D models, we can now present these mechanics to players in a much more intuitive way.
I am not a professional graphic designer, so some players may feel that the current 3D ships look somewhat toy-like. I fully understand that. In the future, I will consider improving the UV textures or providing a ship editor so that players can customize ship designs according to their own preferences.
After all, I do not think most of you chose this game simply to look at beautiful 3D ships. :)
Even so, I will continue to improve the visual side of the game as well.
Below is a brief overview of the combat systems related to this update.
1. Ship roll affected by windward and leeward conditions
Depending on wind direction and sea conditions, ships will roll from side to side. This will affect the range and accuracy of broadside fire in real time.
2. 3D target system
As targets are now represented in 3D, damage can be calculated by different ship layers and deck sections, including upper, middle, and lower deck areas.
Masts such as the foremast and mainmast can also receive damage and be destroyed individually in real time.
3. Reading wind direction through flags and sails
The state of flags and sails will change according to wind direction, allowing players to read the wind more intuitively during battle.
4. Magazine compartment system
Previously, magazine explosions were handled by percentage chance.
Now, explosions can occur when a specific magazine compartment is directly hit.
This means that choosing which part of the enemy ship to target will become an important tactical decision.
With the transition to 3D ship models, many more systems can now be implemented in the future.
Of course, since this update is built upon the existing 2D system, I have also focused heavily on optimization. My goal is to make sure players feel little to no performance difference during actual gameplay.
Now, I will once again move full speed ahead toward the campaign mode.
Perhaps we may eventually encounter something quite different from the multiplayer systems we have seen so far. :)
For now, it is still only a plan…
Until then,
May the wind be with you!
— Developer of Ship of the Line