Let's Play Rule the Waves 3 - An Interactive Let's Play by Shebe Zuu
- Thread starter Shebe Zuu
- Start date
- Let's Play
January 1890
- Location
- U S of A
JANUARY, 1890
For me, Super Large fleet size is the most fun way to play the game, partly because (as I understand it) it's the closest to historical fleet sizes but also because it's just fun to be able to go nuts with tons of ships. I think the micromanagement pain will also be lessened here since as this is a lets play I'll be moving at a slower pace than I normally would and will have more time to pay attention to details.
80% research rate is my go-to, since 100% feels extremely fast even for this fast-moving era. In my experience at 100% research rate you can easily be dodging flights of torpedo bombers in 1914 and having carrier duels by the late 20's, which is a bit of a faster sunset of the battleship era than I'm really interested in.
Slight tech variation will add some randomness the effectiveness of some techs and mess with the rates at which others are unlocked, but it won't take things so off the rails as to be unrecognizable from history.
Never taken particularly seriously as a naval power, the Prussian roots of the Kaiserliche Marine had long placed it below the Army in importance, funding, and prestige. This was only emphasized by the fact that the first two Admirals of the Imperial German Navy were, in fact, Army officers. All this would change due to the obsession of one man: the newly crowned Emperor of Germany, Wilhelm II. Wilhelm desperately wanted Germany to be counted as a world power, one that could equal or even surpass Britain, and he was convinced that the way to achieve this was through the establishment of a powerful Navy. In 1889 he would dissolve the old Imperial Admiralty as part of a program of reform and replace it with a collection of bodies including the Naval High Command, the Imperial Naval Office, the Imperial Naval Cabinet, and the Imperial Admiralty Staff. Why precisely Wilhelm felt such a wide division of responsibilities to be an improvement is not totally clear, but as the year 1890 dawns it is this eclectic group of agencies which must lead Germany towards a future in which it truly Rules the Waves.
The Imperial German Navy in January 1890
Ships Under Construction in 1890
Ships in Class: 4
The Weissenburg-Class Battleship is slow and not particularly well armed for a ship of its class, but her armor is more than thick enough to do the job and her main battery still ought to be sufficient against most armored or protected cruisers. Unfortunately the class's short range and cramped accommodations make them close to unusable outside of home waters, even if we had the bases to support them elsewhere.
Ships in Class: 2
The Weissenburg's smaller cousins, the Wettin-Class Battleships follow much the same general plan, though they trade a fair bit of their armor for a more formidable secondary and tertiary battery. It must be said that the benefits of this tradeoff seem dubious, however, as the Wettins are not quick enough to close with the enemy and put their secondary guns to best use, whereas their reduced armor scheme may make them vulnerable to enemy capital ships in a way the Weissenburgs are not.
Ships in Class: 3
The Victoria-Louise Class Armored Cruisers are fairly typical examples of their type, exhibiting no exceptional qualities nor particular flaws. They could perhaps be thought of as a 'baseline' to which other designs might be compared to.
Ships in Class: 2
The Vineta-Class Armored Cruisers are quite small for a CA, suffering as a result in both speed and armament, though they retain a healthy amount of armor. The staff believes they may be well suited to escort duties, screening either for civilian shipping or the main battleline.
Ships in Class: 1, 1 Building
The Prinz Heinrich-Class Armored Cruisers are quite similarly constructed to the Victoria Louise-Class, being just slightly smaller and trading off some main battery power for a bit more armor. Indeed, the staff believes the two classes are similar enough to be essentially interchangeable in our cruiser divisions.
Ships in Class: 1 Building
The Furst Bismarck is (at the moment) a one-off design that when complete will be the largest ship in the Kaiserliche Marine. With that size comes significant capability, equipped as she is with a powerful secondary battery, coupled with strong armor and high speed for her type. The staff believes she would perform best on independent assignment, be that as a raider or hunter-killer.
Ships in Class: 3
The Gefion-Class Protected Cruisers are practically bristling with guns given their size, even mounting two 8 inch naval rifles. Though naturally not as tough as our armored cruisers she is also decently protected and has the highest speed of any ship currently serving, though the Furst Bismarck will equal her when complete. The staff believes she will perform well in a variety of roles, and is particularly eyeing her as a fleet scout.
Ships in Class: 7, 1 Building
The Gazelle-Class Protected Cruisers are cheap to maintain and build. Unfortunately the positives just about end there. Undergunned and with unremarkable armor and speed, the Gazelles seem to have no clear role in battle, though the staff is considering placing them as screens for the battlefleet for lack of anything better to do with them and a lack of lighter forces among the Navy in general.
Ships in Class: 3
The August Pieper-Class Corvettes should be understood to be second-line ships, employed to protect our merchant shipping and respond to minor disturbances, rather than as fleet combatants.
Ships in Class: 2
Rigged for colonial service, the Columbia-Class Avisos do the job of maintaining order in the German Empire's overseas possessions, but aren't expected to accomplish much in a real fight.
The Economic Status of the German Navy at the start of 1890
A Comparison of the German Navy in 1890 with other powers of the period
Diplomatic Tensions in 1890 - Higher Bars Indicate Higher Tension
AI Nations Tension relative to each other - Remember that in RTW3 AI Nations can go to war with each other!
German Research Options Jan. 1890
In the field of military science Germany was an increasingly important player, but this had yet to translate into the naval arena. Though innovative steelmaking techniques were being looked at in the industrial heartlands of the Ruhr valley which it was hoped might be of value to the next generation of naval vessels, German armaments development had primarily focused on the Army, and as a result German arsenals were slightly but noticeably behind their counterparts in neighboring France and Britain. Doctrinally the Kaiserliche Marine was unremarkable for its time, having had little pressure to innovate.
German Coastal Fortifications, Jan. 1890
Currently Serving Officers, Jan. 1890
German Force Disposition, Jan. 1890
The German Coastal Artillery had also been transferred to naval control under the auspices of Kaiser Wilhelm, though it was a modest establishment primarily concentrated around the fleet base at Kiel and the newly finished Kiel Canal. The Navy's new masters were left to manage an officer corps which was for the most part untested in battle, with few officers having even left Europe due to the underdeveloped status of Germany's scattered colonies. The cruiser force traditionally kept a handful of ships on station in Africa, but otherwise the German Navy rarely left home waters.
The World, Jan. 1890
THE DECISIONS BEFORE THE NAVAL CONTROL BOARD
Currently all of our Battleships are organized into a single formation - this gives us a concentration of force but is highly inflexible, especially given our battleship's limited range. Should the disposition of our battlefleet be reconsidered?
[][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
Previously, the Navy has had no consistent policy when it comes to stationing forces overseas, mostly just sending whoever was willing to go (or had ticked off High Command). The General Staff wishes to reassess this policy, and come up with a more standardized system. Among the ideas floated before the board is the establishment of a new fleet base in Tanganyika, to allow greater flexibility in the number and types of ship we can deploy around the world, though this is not without its costs.
[][TOUR] The Gefion-class has the speed and the firepower to match any opponent it's likely to meet, a perfect fit!
[][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
Various proposals have been put forth to attempt to increase the Navy's effectiveness by implementing new training regimens for all sailors. However, there is considerable disagreement about what sort of regimen ought to be adopted, and some believe the additional costs of such training will be unable to fit within the budget.
Gunnery training will be particularly expensive due to the costs of ammunition, resulting in a 30% increase in upkeep for all ships.
Other training priorities will be less expensive, resulting in a 20% increase in upkeep.
Gunnery training will be particularly expensive due to the costs of ammunition, resulting in a 30% increase in upkeep for all ships.
Other training priorities will be less expensive, resulting in a 20% increase in upkeep.
[][TRAIN] Our Night Fighting will be superior!
[][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
Traditionally, the German Navy has only been mobilized in times of need, otherwise operating at a reduced tempo and with smaller numbers of personnel to keep costs down. The Kaiser would like to see the German Navy shown off to the world at all times, and has requested the Navy consider keeping the fleet in a state of constant readiness, but many officers in the naval staff have concerns about spending so much money without a clear need.
[][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[][MOTHS] The Battleline is what will win us control of the sea, and it must be of the highest quality. (Keep our battleships active and place the rest in reserve)
[][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
German dockyards are far from full right now, but having caught the Kaiser's interest many within the Navy want to invest in future fleet necessities by expanding our shipbuilding capabilities, which will increase both the amount of tonnage we can build simultaneously and the maximum size of ship our yards can construct. It will not come cheap, however.
[][DOCKS] Unfortunately I don't think we can fit that in the budget. (Do not expand dockyards)
At the moment, the Navy finds itself with both a budget surplus and room in the yards to make use of it. Naturally this has occasioned many opinions about what sort of ships the Navy might place on order. Regarding existing designs, both the Gefion-class and the Furst Bismark-class have many advocates, who point out that these designs may be laid down straight away without any additional work. However, there are also advocates for the design of a new class of battleship with greater range and more firepower than our current fleet, as well as those who desire a dedicated cruiser design for the purpose of raiding and scouting.
[][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[][BUILD] The Gefion-class is already in service and well-liked. Why pay for new designs when we have something good available?
[][BUILD] Though still under construction, the Furst Bismarck-class seems to hold great potential. Perhaps we ought to order a second example?
[][BUILD] The fleet does not have any pressing needs at this time. (Build nothing)
[][BUILD] Write-in
Still highly connected to the needs of the Army, the coastal artillery forces have many ears within our landlubbing brethren, who have requested we take another look at the state of our defenses. Right now they are concentrated in a few key positions around major naval bases, but there are arguments for the construction of new gun batteries both in Germany and in the colonies. Of course there are also those who regard the spending of the naval budget on stationary installations which are unlikely to be of help in a high seas engagement as a waste of valuable resources.
[][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[][FORTS] Frankly it's not clear the coastal artillery is worth the expense. (Decommission coastal guns)
Currently, the Navy spends 8% of its yearly budget on sponsoring the development of new technology for use in the fleet. Naturally, the scientists who run these programs are constantly complaining that this amount is insufficient for their most ambitious projects. There are some within the Navy who agree with this perspective, saying that one cannot put too high a price on progress. Others argue that the Navy's priority must be on defending Germany in the now, not frittering away resources on some nebulous future.
[][EGG] The current scientific budget is acceptable. (8% monthly spending)
[][EGG] Perhaps we can find a bit more room in the budget for them. (10% monthly spending)
[][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
Also regarding research, there is considerable debate within the Navy as to what direction our efforts in technical development ought to focus on. The three main schools of thought include those who wish to take advantage of the expertise we already possess in steelmaking, those who wish to create forward-looking designs for a modern battlefleet, and those who wish to increase the lethality of our naval rifles.
[][RESEARCH] Let us focus our research in the areas which our scientists are most skilled in. (Prioritize Armor Development and AP Projectiles)
[][RESEARCH] We should focus on coming up with new and innovative design schemes for our future fleet. (Prioritize Ship Design and Turrets & Gun Mountings)
[][RESEARCH] We need better guns and projectiles to decisively engage the enemy! (Prioritize Naval Guns and HE & AP Projectiles)
[][RESEARCH] Write-in
The lack of any dedicated naval intelligence apparatus has worried many in the navy, and several proposals have been forwarded for the establishment of such an organization, and its priorities. This body would require funding (80 funds per month per level of network per nation targeted, specifically) but could be the difference between victory and defeat in a future conflict. There are also certain unscrupulous individuals who wish to use the intelligence arm to precipitate incidents with other nations, leading to a glorious war in which Germany would surely emerge victorious. Equally, there are those who regard the entire practice as dishonorable and ghastly, and would rather hear no more of it.
[][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbors. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[][MAIL] We should have an agent in every port! (Focus on getting the best intelligence the budget will allow)
[][MAIL] Write-in
Despite the patronage of the Kaiser, the Navy still has a long way to go before it is as revered an institution as the Army. With this in mind many officers wish to take any available opportunity to increase the prestige of the Navy, while others worry that this approach will leave the service putting honor before reason. {NOTE - Lack of Prestige is the only way to 'lose' a game of RTW. If the Prestige of the Navy falls below a certain threshold (usually 16), the game is over!}
[][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[][HONOR] We need to be effective far more than we need to be liked. (Be very pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
Strictly speaking, foreign policy is no business of the Navy's, being the purview of the diplomatic corps and their political masters. However it is well known that the Kaiser adores the Navy and if necessary it is possible that a word in his ear might influence him away from some of his... less sound ambitions for imperial expansion.
[][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {COUNTRYNAME}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[][SUN] At the current time, any conflict would not be in Germany's best interests… (Try to keep tensions low)
Separate from the above, I'd like to ask the audience about how you would like this LP to be structured. RTW3 naturally runs on 1 month turns, but if I were doing a full write-up for every month the pacing would slow to a crawl and we'd be unlikely to get very far. Therefore I've come up with 3 options that I think make sense.
On Turn Structure [TURNS]
[][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every 6 months.
[][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year without a 'check-in'.
Naturally, in the case of any highly significant events (such as a war or a disarmament conference) I would interrupt this cycle.
Voting will be open for 24 hours from the time of this post!
- Location
- Somewhere
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] The Gefion-class has the speed and the firepower to match any opponent it's likely to meet, a perfect fit!
[X][TRAIN] Let us focus on Gunnery training!
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defences in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavours are equally important. (No prioritisation)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbours. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOUR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[X][TOUR] The Gefion-class has the speed and the firepower to match any opponent it's likely to meet, a perfect fit!
[X][TRAIN] Let us focus on Gunnery training!
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defences in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavours are equally important. (No prioritisation)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbours. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOUR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
Duzzit
CSC 1st Multiversal Fleet Commander
- Location
- London, UK
Future Build-up:
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
888
My thoughts:
In the 1890s naval guns are so bad that the extra training is, basically, pointless at this time. You almost always want to expand dockyards, at least until around 40k and then can afford to slow down.
NPC Ship designs are meh, and even if Shebe can't make anything too much better due to tech, its still a good idea. I dont usually play around much/at all with coastal artillery, but thats because I normally play Japan in these games. In Europe they are likely to be far more useful.
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
888
My thoughts:
In the 1890s naval guns are so bad that the extra training is, basically, pointless at this time. You almost always want to expand dockyards, at least until around 40k and then can afford to slow down.
NPC Ship designs are meh, and even if Shebe can't make anything too much better due to tech, its still a good idea. I dont usually play around much/at all with coastal artillery, but thats because I normally play Japan in these games. In Europe they are likely to be far more useful.
- Location
- U S of A
While training regimens do need some time to kick in, once they've been fully implemented its simply a flat bonus.
- Location
- U S of A
You can have up to two training modifiers active at a time, though you'll have to pay the costs for both of them.
DanBaque
Let's Have Fun
- Location
- Occupied Catalonian Countries
- Pronouns
- He/Him
[X][FLEET] Keep our battleline concentrated in one division. The concentration of firepower is key to warfare.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] Let us focus on Gunnery training!
[X][MOTHS] The Battleline is what will win us control of the sea, and it must be of the highest quality. (Keep our battleships active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Unfortunately I don't think we can fit that in the budget. (Do not expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Though still under construction, the Furst Bismarck-class seems to hold great potential. Perhaps we ought to order a second example?
[x][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[x][EGG] The current scientific budget is acceptable. (8% monthly spending)
[x][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[x][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[x][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[x][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] Let us focus on Gunnery training!
[X][MOTHS] The Battleline is what will win us control of the sea, and it must be of the highest quality. (Keep our battleships active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Unfortunately I don't think we can fit that in the budget. (Do not expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Though still under construction, the Furst Bismarck-class seems to hold great potential. Perhaps we ought to order a second example?
[x][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[x][EGG] The current scientific budget is acceptable. (8% monthly spending)
[x][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[x][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[x][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[x][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
- Location
- United Kingdom
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] Those Eggheads have had it too good for too long! Cut their budget! (6% monthly spending)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[X][HONOR] The honor of the Navy is paramount! (Try to keep Prestige as high as is practical)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of FRANCE (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every 6 months.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] Those Eggheads have had it too good for too long! Cut their budget! (6% monthly spending)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[X][HONOR] The honor of the Navy is paramount! (Try to keep Prestige as high as is practical)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of FRANCE (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every 6 months.
- Location
- the Republic
- Pronouns
- He/They
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[X][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[X][TOUR] Perhaps if we expanded our base facilities in Tanganyika we could send some heavier ships instead…
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defenses in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
- Pronouns
- He/They/She
So, I'm a newbie to this game, but I did RTFM (3). My interpretation of this starting position is that our battleships are shit, but there's also not much point investing in them over cruisers until we invent bigger guns. Meanwhile we've got some surprisingly good default CAs, and surprisingly bad default CLs. Our geographic position also means that we can bully the Kaiser's cousins in Russia just as easily as the Kaiser's cousins in Britain bully him. Did I miss anything important?
[X][FLEET] Keep our battleline concentrated in one division. The concentration of firepower is key to warfare.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defences in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)[][X][RESEARCH] We should focus on coming up with new and innovative design schemes for our future fleet. (Prioritize Ship Design and Turrets & Gun Mountings)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbours. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[X][FLEET] Keep our battleline concentrated in one division. The concentration of firepower is key to warfare.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
[X][FORTS] The German coastline is still vulnerable and must be our priority. (Expand defences in Europe)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)[][X][RESEARCH] We should focus on coming up with new and innovative design schemes for our future fleet. (Prioritize Ship Design and Turrets & Gun Mountings)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbours. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
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- Location
- U S of A
It should, yes (and if it doesn't we don't have so many votes that I can't just count things manually).
Karlito
Bzzzzzzzzzzzzz!
Yeah pretty much. And not just bigger guns, but better guns too- there's a rule that poor quality big guns can't be upgraded, which means everything we build with muzzle-loaders gets obsolete pretty quickly once better guns come onto the scene. The slower tech does mean an extension of the Ironclad era, but I think armored cruisers with a heavy secondary armament should still perform well against what currently passes for battleships.
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Though still under construction, the Furst Bismarck-class seems to hold great potential. Perhaps we ought to order a second example?
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] Perhaps we can find a bit more room in the budget for them. (10% monthly spending)
[X][RESEARCH] We should focus on coming up with new and innovative design schemes for our future fleet. (Prioritize Ship Design and Turrets & Gun Mountings)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbors. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
Oh boy, okay. I'm going to argue for a radical plan, but hear me out. There's a fun loophole in RtW3's design rules that allow for Ekaterina II-style layouts, and they're really damn capable thanks to having twice the end-on firepower of traditional designs:
It's easier to make a heavier ship go fast than to make a light ship go fast, and everyone's guns are so bad that you can get away with thin armour as long as we accept that the ships will be obsolete within ~20 years (since we're playing on slow tech). If we push it up to 20 knots, it can keep pace with most foreign cruisers (and outrun enemy battleships), while having four large guns firing at fleeing opponents. If we end up fighting the British, they're fast enough to disengage. A very heavy 6" secbat will quickly burn enemy ships down to the waterline, so torpedo cruisers aren't a huge issue. Yes, they're a big investment since they're twice as big as any other ship we have, and they'll be limited to Northern Europe and the Baltic, but if we're smart about picking our battles we'd be able to challenge even the Royal Navy!
Alternatively we can intentionally throw our first war and get rid of the Kaiser
Another thing to note is that we can build armed merchant cruisers, convert them to unarmoured cruisers (KEs in-game), and then send them to foreign station duties. If our European battle fleet is capable enough to focus attention in the North Sea, we can make do with a very cheap colonial aviso.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Write-in: We should order new predreadnoughts that can overmatch anything else currently under construction!
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We should focus on coming up with new and innovative design schemes for our future fleet. (Prioritize Ship Design and Turrets & Gun Mountings)
[X][MAIL] Gentlemen do not read each other's mail! (No intelligence spending)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every 6 months.
(Edit: one thing to be aware of is that RtW's engine doesn't introduce the same cross-levelling penalties that you'd get IRL prior to the introduction of good stable verticals and RPC, so end-on firepower is MUCH more valuable than it was IRL)
It's easier to make a heavier ship go fast than to make a light ship go fast, and everyone's guns are so bad that you can get away with thin armour as long as we accept that the ships will be obsolete within ~20 years (since we're playing on slow tech). If we push it up to 20 knots, it can keep pace with most foreign cruisers (and outrun enemy battleships), while having four large guns firing at fleeing opponents. If we end up fighting the British, they're fast enough to disengage. A very heavy 6" secbat will quickly burn enemy ships down to the waterline, so torpedo cruisers aren't a huge issue. Yes, they're a big investment since they're twice as big as any other ship we have, and they'll be limited to Northern Europe and the Baltic, but if we're smart about picking our battles we'd be able to challenge even the Royal Navy!
Another thing to note is that we can build armed merchant cruisers, convert them to unarmoured cruisers (KEs in-game), and then send them to foreign station duties. If our European battle fleet is capable enough to focus attention in the North Sea, we can make do with a very cheap colonial aviso.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[X][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[X][MOTHS] We are on a tight budget and cannot afford to spend money preparing for a war that may never come. (Put as much of the fleet in reserve as can be managed)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Write-in: We should order new predreadnoughts that can overmatch anything else currently under construction!
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We should focus on coming up with new and innovative design schemes for our future fleet. (Prioritize Ship Design and Turrets & Gun Mountings)
[X][MAIL] Gentlemen do not read each other's mail! (No intelligence spending)
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Our REAL enemy is clearly the perfidious nation of {Russia}! (Try to focus tension against a particular nation)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every 6 months.
(Edit: one thing to be aware of is that RtW's engine doesn't introduce the same cross-levelling penalties that you'd get IRL prior to the introduction of good stable verticals and RPC, so end-on firepower is MUCH more valuable than it was IRL)
Last edited:
- Location
- Illinois
- Pronouns
- He/Him
[x][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
[x][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[x][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[x][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[x][DOCKS] Unfortunately I don't think we can fit that in the budget. (Do not expand dockyards)
[x][BUILD] Though still under construction, the Furst Bismarck-class seems to hold great potential. Perhaps we ought to order a second example?
[x][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[x][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[x][RESEARCH] Let us focus our research in the areas which our scientists are most skilled in. (Prioritize Armor Development and AP Projectiles)
[x][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[x][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[x][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[x][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
[x][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
[x][TRAIN] Damage Control will be our specialty!
[x][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[x][DOCKS] Unfortunately I don't think we can fit that in the budget. (Do not expand dockyards)
[x][BUILD] Though still under construction, the Furst Bismarck-class seems to hold great potential. Perhaps we ought to order a second example?
[x][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[x][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[x][RESEARCH] Let us focus our research in the areas which our scientists are most skilled in. (Prioritize Armor Development and AP Projectiles)
[x][MAIL] We shouldn't ignore our adversaries entirely, but better (and cheaper) not to be provocative… (Focus on keeping costs down)
[x][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[x][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[x][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
- Location
- Russia
- Pronouns
- He
[X][FLEET] Split our battleships into two divisions, to give us greater flexibility in deployment.
With their lack of rear armament, maneuvering our B's to be in the best position to shoot at the enemy is more important.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
Out of sight, out of mind with this subpar design.
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
Gunnery is expensive and even if you hit in this era, you are unlikely to deal a lot of damage; Night Fighting is too situational (and starts mattering more with destroyers); Damage Control is the best of them but can probably wait until torpedoes get a bit better.
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
Our decent CA (Victoria Louise) is our main combat unit anyway. The B's can sit in port.
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
Get docks until 30-40k tons continuously
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
Get a non-rubbish CL. With current armaments, Gazelles cannot reliably penetrate even other CLs, and there are no unarmoured destroyers just yet. Also 20kts speed for a CL is kinda bad.
[X][FORTS] We ought to invest more in the defense of our Empire! Make sure our possessions are properly protected. (Expand defenses in colonial holdings)
Your main bases are usually defended by the fleet and attacked by someting bigger than a coastal battery can handle.
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
Git gud and build less bad ships
[X][RESEARCH] We need better guns and projectiles to decisively engage the enemy! (Prioritize Naval Guns and HE & AP Projectiles)
Probably the key to extend to life of our existing fleet, even if it is to be replaced eventually for the most part.
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
Send spies - Raise tension - Get into war - Win war - Get colonies - Get money
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
Yeah, let us not go there just yet.
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
With their lack of rear armament, maneuvering our B's to be in the best position to shoot at the enemy is more important.
[X][TOUR] Our Gazelle-class cruisers may be sub-par but we have a lot of them and don't particularly need them at home either. Send a few abroad.
Out of sight, out of mind with this subpar design.
[X][TRAIN] It is to early - and expensive - to commit to such training at the moment (No special training)
Gunnery is expensive and even if you hit in this era, you are unlikely to deal a lot of damage; Night Fighting is too situational (and starts mattering more with destroyers); Damage Control is the best of them but can probably wait until torpedoes get a bit better.
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
Our decent CA (Victoria Louise) is our main combat unit anyway. The B's can sit in port.
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
Get docks until 30-40k tons continuously
[X][BUILD] Our Gazelle-class light cruisers are hardly suitable as either raiders or scouts. We should commission a new, more capable design to fill these roles.
Get a non-rubbish CL. With current armaments, Gazelles cannot reliably penetrate even other CLs, and there are no unarmoured destroyers just yet. Also 20kts speed for a CL is kinda bad.
[X][FORTS] We ought to invest more in the defense of our Empire! Make sure our possessions are properly protected. (Expand defenses in colonial holdings)
Your main bases are usually defended by the fleet and attacked by someting bigger than a coastal battery can handle.
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
Git gud and build less bad ships
[X][RESEARCH] We need better guns and projectiles to decisively engage the enemy! (Prioritize Naval Guns and HE & AP Projectiles)
Probably the key to extend to life of our existing fleet, even if it is to be replaced eventually for the most part.
[X][MAIL] Our attention should be on our most likely enemies. (Focus spending on high tension)
Send spies - Raise tension - Get into war - Win war - Get colonies - Get money
[X][HONOR] We are willing to endure a few sneers and jeers if it's for the good of the nation. (Be pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
Yeah, let us not go there just yet.
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year with a mid-year 'check-in' to address any pressing issues.
Vote closed
- Location
- Croatia
[X][FLEET] Keep our battleline concentrated in one division. The concentration of firepower is key to warfare.
[X][TOUR] The Gefion-class has the speed and the firepower to match any opponent it's likely to meet, a perfect fit!
[X][TRAIN] Our Night Fighting will be superior!
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbors. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOR] We need to be effective far more than we need to be liked. (Be very pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year without a 'check-in'.
[X][TOUR] The Gefion-class has the speed and the firepower to match any opponent it's likely to meet, a perfect fit!
[X][TRAIN] Our Night Fighting will be superior!
[X][MOTHS] Our cruisers may well face the enemy alone and on the other side of the world, and need to maintain their edge. (Keep our cruisers active and place the rest in reserve)
[X][DOCKS] Larger dockyards are always a worthy investment. (Expand dockyards)
[X][BUILD] Our current battleships are sadly limited to coastal defense in our home waters. We should seek new designs that will allow us to project power beyond Europe.
[X][FORTS] Our current coastal batteries are sufficient for our needs. (Build nothing)
[X][EGG] We need the best technology available and are willing to pay for it. Give them as much as they can use! (12% monthly spending - MAX)
[X][RESEARCH] We cannot afford to rob Peter to pay Paul, all our technological endeavors are equally important. (No prioritization)
[X][MAIL] Our first priority should be to keep an eye on our immediate neighbors. (Focus on Russia, France, and Great Britain)
[X][HONOR] We need to be effective far more than we need to be liked. (Be very pragmatic about spending Prestige for other benefits)
[X][SUN] Though it is not our place to question the Kaiser, it is clear that the Navy cannot challenge Britain just yet… (Focus on avoiding a conflict with Britain)
[X][TURNS] Conduct a full turn every year without a 'check-in'.
Last edited:
- Location
- U S of A
Well, the Tally seems to have messed up somehow and my attempts to fix it appear to have borked it even further so I just redid it to make sure the results are visible.
Regardless I've also counted everything manually and it seems we'll be getting some new light cruiser designs, so look forward to those!
January 1890 Resolution & Design Contest
- Location
- U S of A
The OOB of the Kaiserliche Marine after the reorganizations of Jan. 1890 - Note that Light Cruiser Division 2 will contain our ships deployed to foreign stations
As determined by the Naval Control Board, new land batteries begin construction to better protect German home waters
Having been instructed to prioritize their efforts against our most likely enemies, the newly-formed Nachrichtenbüro begins operations, starting at a low operational tempo due to the relatively calm state of global affairs
Despite numerous new expenditures approved by the Naval Control Board, the Navy's finances remain comfortably in the black - though this may change as the results of the latest design contest are finalized
DESIGNS SUBMITTED TO THE NAVAL CONTROL BOARD FOR THE 1890 DESIGN CONTEST
The first proposal before the board, tentatively named as the Arcona-Class, attempts to retain the one benefit that can be attributed to the Gazelles, their cheap cost, while giving them some additional capability to make them more useful as actual combatants. A heavier main and secondary battery plus an added knot of speed make it an all-around improvement on the Gazelles without a substantial increase in tonnage. It is primarily intended to replace the Gazelles in their current duties on foreign stations and as fleet screens.
The tentatively named Bremen-Class exhibits the near opposite philosophy. Abandoning most notions of cost or weight savings, its design team attempted to create a light cruiser that could be the equal of any currently afloat. Dual 7 inch double turrets along with a 6 inch secondary battery gives the Bremen a punch that will be hard to answer, and her 3 inches of armor are on the high end for her type.
The designers of the provisional Medusa-Class decided to go all-in on developing a dedicated commerce raider for the fleet, sacrificing armor, armament, and even ammunition capacity to get to a top speed of 22 knots, which exceeds anything that we currently have available. Naturally in a real fight the Medusa cannot be expected to perform, but the designers intention is to make sure the Medusa never has to take a fight she doesn't want to.
Which Design should the Naval Control Board place on order? [DESIGN]
[][DESIGN] Proposal 1, the Arcona-Class
[][DESIGN] Proposal 2, the Bremen-Class
[][DESIGN] Proposal 3, the Medusa-Class
How many should be ordered? [ORDER]
[][ORDER] Let us endeavor to keep our finances healthy. (Order very few ships in order to maintain a budget surplus)
[][ORDER] We should be prudent with our funding, but we are not trying to make a profit here. (Order as many ships as our current budget will allow)
[][ORDER] We have some savings built up, and they do us no good just sitting there. If need be we can count on the Kaiser for support. (Order slightly more ships than the current budget will support)
[][ORDER] With the support of our backers in government the Navy will surely get a larger budget, and soon! There is no reason to be miserly about these things. (Order significantly more ships than the current budget will support)
Voting will be open for 24 hours as of this post!