Old combat (Obsolete)

In early development, the game relied on a pseudo-turn based, fairly slow system of combat resolution. Due to player feedback, this system was completely overhauled and replaced with the current combat system in the Steel update, released October 2014. While the old system is obsolete and does NOT apply to current versions of the game, curious captains may find details on this old system archived below.

Old system
Combat is resolved in real time, with pause available at any moment. However, rather than rely on how fast the player can press buttons to determine victory in combat, each side selects from a pool of abilities to use in combat. The objective is to increase the Illumination of the enemy, so that you can land an accurate hit. Of course, the same applies to the player.

All abilities have a cooldown. You and your opponent each have an array of abilities for defense, damage, healing and trickery. Your Iron stat allows you to attack; your Mirrors stat allows you to Illuminate your enemy, leaving them vulnerable; your Veils stat hides you from your enemy's Illumination; Hearts and Pages allow for healing, drugs, trickery, diplomacy. Your Officers enhance all these, so equipping the right Officers may unlock further abilities.

Once again, light and dark are key. Begin a battle with your enemy in your prow-light to have them begin the battle Illuminated, or turn your lights off to ensure your own Illumination starts low.

As your stats rise, and as you purchase new equipment for your ship, the number and power of your abilities will grow. Begin with a Splinter-Salvo and Evasive Manoeuvres: aspire to the Rarefaction Cannon and the terrifying Unclear Bomb...