I know aspects of this subject have been done to death, but I wanted to add me `rum-soaked` two bits to the discussion.
I've tried the "Sail To" option on a number of occasions when I wanted to speed up the start of an encounter.
What I've found is that "Sail To" plops my flagship right beside me quarry with full sails deployed, and I've taken a full broadside of cannon before I can determine the capability, number, and condition of me foe.
I much prefer sailing into battle in real time. That gives me the opportunity to assess the threats and winds, make battle assignments to me fleet captains, and let the other bugger sweat for a change. Simply put, I want to meet me foe on MY terms, whereas "Sail To" gives an initial advantage to me opponent.
Does it take longer? Yes. Sea battles are a game of chess and chance. Firepower may tip the scales, but it's no guarantee. Skill and patience ultimately determines victory, and minimizes harm to the victorious ship and her crew.
Have I ever had an opposing captain turn tail and run? Of course! And it never bothered me when it took over 3 hours to chase down a `yellow-bellied` opponent and send him to a watery grave. I may be ruthless, but patience is the one virtue I have left.
Some might argue that "Sail To" would have had me on top of him at the outset, unable to run. But it never would have really happened that way, would it? Ol' Mad Jack likes a victory as much as the next pyrate, but easy ones lack the full flavor and satisfaction (hmmm... I'm craving a Lucky Strike suddenly) of a hard fought win.
I've tried the "Sail To" option on a number of occasions when I wanted to speed up the start of an encounter.
What I've found is that "Sail To" plops my flagship right beside me quarry with full sails deployed, and I've taken a full broadside of cannon before I can determine the capability, number, and condition of me foe.
I much prefer sailing into battle in real time. That gives me the opportunity to assess the threats and winds, make battle assignments to me fleet captains, and let the other bugger sweat for a change. Simply put, I want to meet me foe on MY terms, whereas "Sail To" gives an initial advantage to me opponent.
Does it take longer? Yes. Sea battles are a game of chess and chance. Firepower may tip the scales, but it's no guarantee. Skill and patience ultimately determines victory, and minimizes harm to the victorious ship and her crew.
Have I ever had an opposing captain turn tail and run? Of course! And it never bothered me when it took over 3 hours to chase down a `yellow-bellied` opponent and send him to a watery grave. I may be ruthless, but patience is the one virtue I have left.
Some might argue that "Sail To" would have had me on top of him at the outset, unable to run. But it never would have really happened that way, would it? Ol' Mad Jack likes a victory as much as the next pyrate, but easy ones lack the full flavor and satisfaction (hmmm... I'm craving a Lucky Strike suddenly) of a hard fought win.