Rule the Waves 3: Weather and Visibility

Weather Conditions

In Rule the Waves 3, weather is defined by two interconnected parameters vital to your strategies: sea state and precipitation.

Sea State

The sea state is determined by wind force, which is measured using the Beaufort scale. Strong winds or stormy weather bring a set of challenges:

Visibility: This is reduced in stormy weather, hindering the spotting of enemy vessels and reducing your gunfire’s accuracy.

Gunfire: The gunnery of your ships is affected, particularly for smaller vessels which suffer the most.

Ship Speed: Heavy seas limit the speeds of your ships, with lighter ships suffering the most. Consider this when planning maneuvers.

Damage: Ships that are badly damaged may sink or become uncontrollable in heavy seas, so ensure they are well-protected or retreat from the battle in time.

Torpedoes: Stormy seas negatively affect torpedo accuracy and reliability.

Precipitation

Precipitation in the game replicates fog, mist, rain, and snow:

Fog/Mist: These reduce visibility ranges, potentially changing the tactical landscape of an encounter.

Rain/Snow: These conditions also decrease visibility, sometimes drastically.

Note that stormy weather reduces the chance of fog but increases the risk of rain.

Smoke Effects

Smoke, a byproduct of naval vessels, particularly during the first half of the 20th century, profoundly affects visibility and needs careful consideration.

Funnel Smoke

Funnel smoke, whether from coal or oil-fired ships, degrades gunnery when firing through it, except in the case of normal funnel smoke from the target ship. Consider positioning and angles of attack to minimize this effect.

Smokescreens

Destroyers and light cruisers can lay smokescreens. While not fully opaque, these affect gunnery more than regular funnel smoke. Use this strategy to shield vulnerable ships or create diversions.

Smoke Floats

If your light cruisers have been equipped with smoke floats (a capability gained through research), you can use them to block lines of sight and cause similar effects to funnel smoke. This can be a useful tool for facilitating escapes or surprising enemies.

Accumulated Smoke

Coal-fired ships moving at high speed and firing guns in a confined area will produce accumulated smoke, lowering the sighting range for all ships in the area. Keep this in mind in large-scale battles.

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