In Anno 117: Pax Romana, the seas are your highways to empire. Ships are not just for exploration; they are vital for expansion, trade, and military dominance. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about unlocking, building, and effectively using your fleet.
The Role of Ships in Anno 117
Ships are the backbone of your Roman province. They allow you to:
Explore the world and discover new islands.
Expand your territory by establishing new settlements.
Trade goods and resources between your islands.
Defend your waters from pirates and other hostile forces using a powerful military fleet.
New ship types are unlocked by progressing through the game’s tech tree or by completing specific objectives.
How to Unlock and Build the Shipyard
Before you can build a single ship, you need a Shipyard.
Unlocking the Shipyard: The Shipyard becomes available by progressing through the early game objectives, which often include reaching a specific City Status level.
Building the Shipyard: Once unlocked, find the Shipyard in the Harbour Building tab. It must be constructed directly on the coastline with deep water access.
Function: The Shipyard is your one-stop shop for constructing all naval vessels, from humble trade ships to mighty warships.
Anno 117 Ship Types and Progression
Ships in Anno 117 are divided into two main categories, each with three distinct tiers.
Civilian Ships
These ships are designed for non-combat roles like transport and trade.
Penteconter (Tier 1): The basic, early-game workhorse for exploration and establishing your first trade routes.
Trireme (Tier 2): A more robust vessel with better speed and capacity, ideal for your core logistics network.
Quinquereme (Tier 3): The advanced civilian ship, offering the highest cargo capacity and durability for late-game trade empires.
Military Ships
These are your warships, built for combat and defense.
Penteconter (Tier 1): A light warship for basic patrol and defense in the early stages.
Trireme (Tier 2): A well-balanced military vessel with improved combat capabilities.
Quinquereme (Tier 3): The pinnacle of naval warfare, a heavy warship capable of dominating any enemy fleet.
Understanding and Using Ship Modules
A key feature that differentiates higher-tier ships is the use of Modules. These are special upgrades that provide unique functions and stat bonuses.
Higher-tier ships have more module slots, allowing for greater customization.
Examples of Modules: You can install modules that increase sailing speed, add archers for extra defense, or reinforce the hull for more hit points.
Strategy: Equip your trade ships with speed modules to make them more efficient, and your warships with offensive and defensive modules to increase their combat power.
Essential Fleet Management Tips
Building a fleet is one thing; managing it effectively is another.
Workforce Cost is Key: Building and operating ships consumes a significant amount of workforce. Do not overproduce ships early on, as it can strain your city’s labor pool and hinder other development.
Specialize Your Ships: Use modules to create specialized ships. Have fast, lightly-protected traders for safe routes, and heavily-armed Quinqueremes for patrolling dangerous waters.
Plan Your Expansion: Use your initial Penteconters to scout for resource-rich islands. Your first Trireme can then be used to secure a vital trade route for goods you’re missing.
A Balanced Fleet: Maintain a mix of civilian and military ships. A strong economy needs protected trade routes, which requires a capable navy to fend off threats.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Why can’t I build a Shipyard?
A: Ensure you have completed the required early-game objectives, which usually involve upgrading your City Status. Check your quest log for guidance.
Q: What is the best ship in Anno 117?
A: The “best” ship depends on the role. The Quinquereme is the most powerful overall, but a module-equipped Trireme can be a highly cost-effective and versatile option for both trade and combat.
Q: How do I get more workforce for my ships?
A: Grow your population by providing them with housing and fulfilling their needs. A larger population provides a larger workforce pool.
Q: Can I change a ship’s modules after it’s built?
A: The general mechanics of the Anno series suggest that modules are applied during construction. It’s best to plan your ship’s role before building it.
Conclusion
Mastering naval power is essential for building a thriving Roman empire in Anno 117. By strategically unlocking the Shipyard, progressing through the ship tiers, wisely applying modules, and carefully managing your fleet’s size and composition, you will control the seas and ensure the prosperity and security of your growing civilization. Set sail and conquer!