Like:
New ROE at all levels, from lone raider up to squadron action. The two circles are pure gold. The tag area reflects very well the engagement distance. The second circle the battle area. Top work. The tactical layer prior to attack just got real and assessment of everything in OW is essential now. As it should be.
As with the ROE, the alliances system and the pirates on the sidelines without being drawn into a national battle. While this can be changed in the future ( by letters of mart and letters of marquee ) the system as it is now works good.
Trader playstyle just became a reality as much as the sea rover pyrate was already a reality. Both are at the same level of chalenge at the moment and each with its own "hard work" and considerations before putting to sea. Planning is essential. ( obviously there's tweaking to be done ) Trading as a playstyle is finally available and essential to any nation. So Crafters, Fighters and Traders are now ALL absolutely crucial for a well oiled nation.
The coastlines. Was very happy sailing about Georgia and South Carolina and very pleased with the changes.
The forts. They add a sense of "realism". Î can only guess how great some of the well known ports, like Cartagena, Habana and Charleston will look with manual placed fortresses to emulate the real counterparts. Plus they add a lot to battles.
The Map. The transition to Regions is one of the things I really enjoy in the new system. It provides a sense of progressions and eliminates the senseless port hops. It reflects areas of control. On pair, the map reset. Thank you.
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Have yet to test a ton other things. Had a go at combat and the overkill of ball was noticeable. Have yet to properly have a go at longs, mediums and carronades.
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Dislike:
Not so many things but one really got me anxious - The hostility lists UI is somewhat confusing.