The Early Access version of Naval Action has turned into a surprise hit.
About 70,000 copies have been sold of the historical military MMO, with between 2,000 and 3,000 players simultaneously engaging in the naval battles of the 18th century. The developers are very proud of what they have created and feel validated in their commitment to realism. In a conversation with Polygon, they discuss their secret to success for maintaining order in the game: an ancient codex and realism.
Realism that does not interfere with fun
Realism comes into play when steering the ships, where the wind must be considered. This, in turn, affects the battles because, to deliver a proper broadside to an enemy, the ship must be positioned correctly. However, this realism should not hinder the enjoyment of the game. While in the true 18th century, sailing ships were on long, dull patrols, the MMO focuses on battles. Players should constantly set out to join their guild in war against other guilds and experience tactical and exciting naval battles.
Additionally, you travel across an overland map. On this map, you steer your ship from port to port to trade. This earns you money with which you can upgrade and improve your ships or acquire new ones. It is even possible for you and your guild to conquer entire territories, thus taking over and controlling the market in certain regions. PvP plays a central role in Naval Action, with the developers explaining that everything is still in an early phase and balancing needs much work, so that smaller guilds also have a chance against larger ones.
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Anyone who wants to play Naval Action must adhere to a codex of the British Navy corresponding to that of the 18th century. Insults and obscenities are completely forbidden, just as they were on board the ships back then. Those who violate this are not keelhauled but will be mercilessly banned.
Naval Action is described as a mix of EVE Online and World of Tanks. Anyone who enjoys the PvP, the guild and player-driven economy of EVE Online, and the tactical group battles of World of Tanks will find satisfaction with this MMO.
