BitCraft Online: Dynamic Sailing in “Winds of Trade” Update

The latest BitCraft Online update, titled “Winds of Trade,” significantly revamps the sailing mechanics by introducing a dynamic global wind system. Players enjoying this buy-to-play Early Access sandbox MMO can now observe the wind’s behavior across the game world. This is visualized on the map via a toggleable overlay, through the movement of flags on boats, and through environmental cues such as smoke and falling leaves. Wind direction directly influences sailing speed: sailing with the wind provides a speed bonus, which scales with your Sailing skill, potentially doubling your speed at level 100. Sailing against the wind won’t slow you down, but you’ll miss out on the speed boost.

To incentivize sailing, the update also introduces Lost Flotsam, a new type of resource scattered throughout the ocean. Collecting this flotsam grants substantial Sailing EXP. When brought to a new sailing station, the flotsam can be opened, yielding further experience and other rewards. These resources will respawn regionally.

Another notable experimental change involves boat and deployable progression. The raft and skiff can now be upgraded with sidegrades crafted using new sailing materials obtained from flotsam. Clockwork Labs hints at future possibilities, including boats and mounts that can be modified into different versions, each with unique stats and appearances.

Logistics and trade are also impacted by the wind system. Wind patterns shift gradually over days, enabling merchant players to identify and leverage optimal trade routes. However, smaller, more frequent wind variations ensure that voyages still require active navigation. Clockwork Labs intends to monitor and fine-tune the wind’s dynamics to achieve balanced gameplay.