The Merchants

The MerchantsCaptain anything from a small cargo vessel to a mighty galleon. It is your choice to command the crew of a single ship or raise an entire fleet of various vessels. Haul cargo, wield cannons, or manage a mix of both as you and your friends navigate the high seas.Online MultiplayerJump into an adventure with friends through Steam's online multiplayer! Team up to build thriving trade empires, command fleets together, or compete for dominance on the high seas. Whether you're coordinating a convoy, engaging in epic naval battles, or simply exploring the world side by side, playing with friends adds new strategies and endless opportunities for cooperation and rivalry.TradingTrading puts the wind in your sails! Whether you get your goods from a reputable source… or you don't… sell your goods for profit and re-invest in your growing fleet. When your fleet has grown, let your fleet do the work with trade routes. Set them up and send them off. You may even assign them escorts just in case, or not if you're feeling lucky.Naval CombatWhoever you choose to sail with, or under, there will always be those who serve an opposing force. There are no laws on the high seas to dictate right from wrong. You must do what it takes to survive, or maybe it is you who is the opposing force… Take part in engaging naval battles, come out victorious, and dominate the high seas!Fleet CommandCommand your fleet to be effective in combat and trade. Unlock new tactics and instruct your crew how to use them.Crew Management The crew of each ship is essential to the ship's survival and role. Each ship needs specific roles filled, such as the Captain, First Mate, Navigator, Cook, Surgeon, and so on. The player can choose what type of units the sailing crew is composed of as well. Ships perform certain tasks better when they have the necessary crew, based on what the player wants from individual vessels, such as how many gunners, marines, sailors, recruits, or any other available unit types.Resource ManagementManage your resources wisely! Your crew must be paid, your ammunition must be conserved, and your ship must stay afloat! Upgrade Your ShipA small ship doesn't mean a small payload. Make your ships more powerful by upgrading them and their accessories.Upgrade your Power:

• Integrity
• Guns
• Rigging
• Sails
• Steering Gear 

Upgrade your ship:

• Cargo Hold
• Crew Quarters
• Kitchen
• Prison Hold
• Great Cabin

Dynamic Fire PhysicsA blazing fire on your ship is no good! Over time, it will spread over your entire ship! Your crew size, crew skill, the size of the fire, and your own determination are all factors that will determine if you will make it out alive.FactionsWho you serve is up to you. Sail under a nation, an alliance, a trade company, privateers, Pirates, or even your own rising empire.