The city-builder Whiskerwood has received its "Nautical Update," a significant expansion that allows players to venture beyond their island home and explore the open seas. Developed by Minakata Dynamics, this update is described as the game's second act, following the initial focus on the mice's adaptation to life under the rule of cats known as the Claws.
Expanding the Horizon
Previously, gameplay was confined to a single island. The Nautical Update introduces a 2D, grid-based world map, enabling players to direct their ships to various destinations. This expansion brings new challenges and opportunities, including encounters with pirates who threaten the Claws' established colonies through smuggling and pillaging. The blog post notes that player actions can inadvertently support these pirates, whose growing influence will eventually lead to "Pirate Wars." These conflicts, in turn, will provide players with the schematics needed to build their own naval forces.
Maritime Mechanics
The update focuses on naval gameplay, incorporating elements such as boat battles, ship construction, and trade. Players can engage in sea battles or opt for fishing expeditions. Certain islands will offer opportunities for trading goods to expand a player's resource supply. Maintaining a capable crew is crucial, as only mice with specific skills – Sailor or Officer – can man the ships. Larger vessels require a combination of Officers and Sailors, while smaller ships can be operated by Sailors alone.
Defending the Homeland
While players are exploring and engaging in maritime activities, their home island remains vulnerable to attacks. The update requires players to prepare defenses to protect their settlements while their fleets are at sea. In conjunction with the update's release, Whiskerwood is currently available at a 50% discount on Steam.