Captains!In today's Waterline episode, we're going to recall the new features that have been released since the previous episode and tell you about the game development plans for late 2022 — early 2023.
Please note that all of the information contained in this document is preliminary. Any changes and new features that we announce may change several times during tests. During each of those testing rounds, we'll carefully consider your feedback and opinions. Now, let's get down to the details! To reveal the information, click on the respective blocks.
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[h2]
What's Already Done[/h2]
[h2]Ships[/h2]
[h3]
Large French Cruisers[/h3]
The main feature of the new ships is their large-caliber guns (relative to the ship type) mounted on their bows. While they reload slowly, this is compensated for by the Main Battery Reload Booster consumable. The new ships are capable of achieving high speeds with the help of the improved "French-specific" Engine Boost consumable. The ships' armor does a great job in protecting their citadels against medium-caliber AP shells, but the cruisers are quite vulnerable against HE and SAP shells. Medium and long ranges are optimal for engagements, but with the help of the improved accuracy of their 139 mm secondary battery guns, the new ships can also show their worth in close-range encounters.
New ships: VIII Cherbourg, IX Brest, and X Marseille.
[h3]
British Battleships[/h3]
A new branch of British battleships was added to the game in the summer. Equipped with torpedoes and main guns that don't have a particularly long range of fire, the new sea giants will show their worth at medium- to knife-duel distances. The Repair Party consumable they have on board can regenerate a significant amount of any lost HP.
The battleships carry HE shells with a standard penetration capacity, and the AP shells they fire have a typically British short fuse time. They are also less likely to cause overpenetration and are, therefore, more efficient against lightly armored targets. The guns have a solid caliber—up to 457 mm at Tier X. Starting from Tier V, the ships are equipped with Engine Boost; from Tier VI—with Defensive AA Fire; and from Tier IX, Repair Party is replaced with Specialized Repair Teams.
New ships: 
III Indefatigable, IV Queen Mary, V Tiger, VI Renown, VII Rooke, VIII Hawke, IX Duncan, and X St. Vincent.
[h3]
Superships[/h3]
The supership flotilla is expanded with
★ Patrie and
★ Edgar, which arrived in Early Access.
★ Patrie is a battleship armed with twelve 431 mm main battery guns. The ship's AA defenses comprise systems designed in the 1950s.
★ Edgar is a further development of the Minotaur-class cruiser project with an increased number of main battery guns, as well as more advanced and effective anti-submarine and AA weaponry that was developed in the 1950s and 1960s.
[h2]In-Game Events[/h2]
[h3]
Updated Convoy[/h3]
Update 0.11.5 saw the return of the Convoy temporary battle type. We made a number of changes to Convoy in its new iteration. The battle format was reworked. Aircraft carriers, destroyers, cruisers, battleships, and submarines were allowed to participate. There were more maps with various routes on them. We also updated the interface and tactical tips in battle.
[h3]
New Team Competition[/h3]
Along with the release of the new British battleship branch into Early Access, a new event started that was dedicated to the shipbuilders of foggy Albion. The
Chatham,
Elswick, and
Clydebank shipyards competed for the right to be called the best shipbuilder serving the needs of the Royal Navy. Players made their choices and supported one of the shipyards, earning valuable themed rewards along the way.
[h3]
Web Campaigns[/h3]
Our game has featured two web campaigns since the previous Waterline episode.
The first one was dedicated to the Pacific War. During this event, USS
IX Black returned to the game and subsequently became available in the Armory in exchange for Coal.
The second campaign brought us onboard a ship uncovering the secrets of the mysterious Navigators. One of the main new features in the Armory during this event was
VIII Hampshire with a themed camouflage and Commander.
[h3]
Anniversary[/h3]
Right now, we're celebrating the 7th Anniversary of World of Warships. Open the Treasure Map elements and participate in the draw of an all-inclusive seven-day cruise for two! All of the details are available
here.
You can also enjoy battle performance bonuses. For performing well in battle, you can now receive several rewards and pick up rewards for ships in your Port even without playing them.
The Warship Strike minigame and a new collection are now available in the game.
[h3]
Dockyard[/h3]
X Puerto Rico is back in the World of Warships' virtual Dockyard. One of the Dockyard's free rewards is
VII Huron.
[h2]New Map and Other Enhancements[/h2]
[h3]
Faroe Islands[/h3]
The Faroe Islands map was added to the game. The appearance of this map was selected by players at the end of last year.
[h3]
Arms Race[/h3]
We are in a never-ending search for new modes that could be added to Random Battles. The Arms Race mode played well during several temporary events and even a whole Ranked Battles season, and players loved it. That's why we decided to add it to Random Battles on a permanent basis, and it replaced Epicenter there.
[h3]
Reworked Operations[/h3]
In Update 0.11.8, we reworked all Operations in our game for players to have the opportunity to take part in Operations playing more of their favorite ships and earning valuable rewards along the way.
Now, Tier VI to VIII ships can be matched in battle at the same time, and the final team lineup has an effect on the strength of the bots and post-battle earnings. Besides this, the 30-minute restriction for re-entry into battle playing the same ship was removed.
The Operations economy changed as well. Previously, players earned Stars for completing an Operation, and the rewards could only be obtained once. We removed Stars altogether, and the rewards can now be earned by progressing through dedicated daily and weekly combat missions specifically designed for Operations. As rewards for completing these missions, players can earn Community Tokens and even a Supercontainer, and completing secondary missions in successful Operations brings more Credits and XP.
We also decided to try out a new approach and improve the diversity of Operations for players who participate in them regularly. In Update 0.11.8, Operation of the Week is replaced with random Operations with automatic ally selection. The option to select an Operation of players' liking is still available when they are part of a Division.
The following three Operations are back for the revamped game mode: The Ultimate Frontier, Hermes, and Cherry Blossom.
[h3]
Battle Camera[/h3]
We introduced a number of changes to the battle camera in the summer to make it more convenient for all players. We also implemented additional settings to help customize the camera.
- We changed the default base viewing angle in the Port and in battle. The camera is now focused more directly on the player's ship.
- Aiming when using Spotting Aircraft was changed. To make it more comfortable, we now offer two camera positions to choose from: lower and upper.
- New "Field of view" and "Camera height" settings were added, allowing players to raise and move the camera away from the ship.
- The camera viewing angle in the torpedo launcher view is now similar to that in the main battery view. Transitioning between them is now smoother. The torpedo launcher viewing angle was expanded to make it easier to assess the battle situation.
- The camera now moves more smoothly when tracking flying shells. Shell models were also updated.
[h3]
Other Changes[/h3]
We improved AI for bots in Training and Co-op Battles and updated the Minimap and quick commands. On the barge, we implemented the option to view and open any available containers. New descriptions of ship features were added in the Armory. We also introduced many other improvements.
[h2]
Fall 2022[/h2]
[h3]
Submarines in Early Access[/h3]
Since submarines arrived in testing, we've checked various concepts and looked for unique gameplay for this ship type. Almost all elements of submarine gameplay have undergone significant changes during closed and open tests. The dive capacity system was completely reworked, most surface ships were equipped with anti-submarine weapons, alternative torpedoes were added, and some submarines even received controllable guns. Interaction between surface ships and submarines, as well as between submarines, also changed.
We started testing submarines in Random Battles last year. It was a big step and crucially important for our game. Development reached its final stage where we started polishing mechanics, fixing problems, and fine-tuning submarines to bring them to the final shape in which they would be introduced into the game.
Over recent months, we've implemented lots of fixes and improvements based on your feedback.
- We reworked the submarine matchmaker and combined their queue with that of the destroyers.
- We updated the visual and audio effects for sonar pings
- and split Hydrophone into two separate consumables.
- We reduced the submarine speed under water and added dispersion for torpedo tubes, which made it harder for submarines to carry out sudden attacks from a short distance.
We're now sure that submarines in their current state fit well into the World of Warships gameplay and are ready for the next step—their full release in the game.
So, we announce that Update 0.11.9 will bring Early Access to this ship type. From the start, players will be able to get Early Access to U.S. and German submarines, and U.S.S.R. submarines will be added in spring 2023. Besides this, British submarines Undine, Sturdy, and Thrasher will be put to the test in the fall.
For two weeks following the arrival of submarines in Early Access, players will have the possibility to reset skills and demount upgrades for free. Also, there will be a button on the website for resetting skills for all Commanders.
Many of you welcomed submarines in Convoy and asked us to add a separate mode for this ship type. To celebrate the arrival of submarines in Early Access, we'll release a new Operation, especially for the new ship type. The Operation is inspired by real World War II events—submarines hunting for convoys. The new Operation will help both new and experienced Captains become familiar with the new ship type as well as its gameplay features.
[h3]
Japanese Cruisers[/h3]
Just recently, the testing of a new branch of Japanese cruisers has started.
These ships perform best in medium and long-range encounters. They boast a good firing range, carry a significant number of main guns, and are equipped with long-range torpedoes that can inflict decent damage. These cruisers enjoy good concealment, which helps them escape encounters or, when necessary, sneak up on enemy ships to strike first.
New ships: V Agano, VI Gokase, VII Omono, VIII Shimanto, IX Takahashi, X Yodo, and VII Tokachi.
- Tier V and VI ships received 152 mm main battery guns, Tier VII ship is armed with 155 mm guns, and high-tier cruisers carry numerous dual-purpose 150 mm guns.
- All cruisers have powerful, long-range, but slow, 610 mm torpedoes.
- Torpedo tubes of Tier VII and higher cruisers have turning mechanics, previously presented on new British battleships. Torpedoes can be launched at angles to which torpedo tubes are physically unable to turn. Right after launch, the torpedoes turn to the selected direction and follow a straight line to the set course.
- Starting with Tier VI, Hydroacoustic Search or Defensive AA Fire is available in one slot, and Fighter is available in a separate slot.
- Tier IX–X cruisers have access to the Repair Party consumable.
[h3]
New Superships[/h3]
★ Patrie and
★ Edgar will leave Early Access very soon.
★ Dalarna and
★ Clausewitz, that you're probably already familiar with, will join them in a while. Two new ships,
★ Sekiryu and
★ Admiral Ushakov were put to the test in Update 0.11.8.
★ Dalarna is a classic representative of the European destroyer branch with powerful torpedo armament, strong AA defenses, lack of smokescreens, and decent main battery armament that enables fighting back at the enemy in an artillery duel. The main difference between the super destroyer and her predecessor,
X Halland, is an additional main battery turret. Besides this, Dalarna can use two types of torpedoes in battle. Her consumables comprise Engine Boost, Repair Party, and Defensive AA Fire.
★ Clausewitz is a heavy cruiser designed for long-distance raids and featuring twelve 210 mm guns and powerful anti-aircraft and torpedo armament. From a gameplay perspective, Clausewitz is a development of Tier X cruiser
X Hindenburg. She has more HP, better armor protection, higher firepower, and more torpedoes. Notably, Clausewitz doesn't have any unique mechanics, which is compensated for by the significant enhancement of her characteristics compared to Hindenburg.
★ Sekiryu is a super aircraft carrier representing a further development of the Taiho class. She significantly surpasses her predecessor in terms of dimensions, hangar capacity, and AA defense power. The project is reinforced with tactical jet squadrons and continues the branch in the Tech Tree next to
X Hakuryū. The main feature of her squadrons is the high maximum aircraft speed that allows them to quickly cover substantial distances and carry out lightning-fast attacks against enemy ships.
★ Admiral Ushakov is a large ship with a full displacement of over 100,000 tons, one of the draft designs for a post-war battleship (Project 24) carrying nine 457 mm guns as the main battery. In the Tech Tree, she follows Kremlin and inherits the key features of her predecessor. A large HP pool and strong armor protection have an impact on the ship's maneuverability. The ship boasts good main gun accuracy at short distances and carries numerous secondary battery mounts. Carrying out successful adjustment fire activates Combat Instructions—an alternative firing mode that provides a temporary boost in battle.
[h3]
Halloween[/h3]
Traditional Halloween celebrations await players this fall, bringing back Operations Sunray in the Darkness and Saving Transylvania. Besides this, temporary themed Twilight Battle mode will be available.
[h3]
Cross-Realm[/h3]
This fall, we're going to conduct large-scale testing of the cross-realm matchmaker technology that enables players from different regions to fight together in one battle. Implementation of a technology like this involves a number of difficulties and risks, and we'll only use it in matchmaker for new players at first. As it happens, the problem with quickly assembling teams is the most pressing for this player cohort. The number of newcomers playing at the same time is frequently not enough to assemble proper teams, and they have to fight battles with lots of bots.
The specific character of matchmaker for newcomers will allow us to quickly and efficiently test the new feature and resolve potential technical issues. If the experiment is successful, we'll consider the possibility of implementing this technology into other modes and battle types, where needed.
[h3]
Black Friday[/h3]
In the fall, the traditional Black Friday event will return. You can expect lots of tempting offers and new Black ships. We're ready to share the list of these new ships with you today:
- Napoli B
- Kearsarge B
- Mainz B
- Chkalov B
- Shinonome B
[h3]
Interface Changes[/h3]
We plan to introduce a number of improvements to the Commander interface. For example, we'll add filters and a possibility to view Commanders in reserve. We'll also rework tooltips.
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[h2]
Winter 2022/23[/h2]
[h3]
New Map[/h3]
We're currently working on a new Seychelles map. The peculiar feature of the map is that the shape and location of the islands on it are modelled after a real-world cluster of islands. This is a new experience for us because in-game mechanics and balance should be adjusted specifically to the peculiar feature of the map without making any significant changes to its geometry. We're experimenting with the starting locations of teams and key areas to make the map as balanced as possible.
[h3]
New Year Celebrations[/h3]
Long and bright New Year celebrations await us this year. We'd prefer not to reveal all of the secrets now, but here is a sneak peek at the planned activities. You can expect Snowflakes (battle performance bonuses), gifts, and a range of special events, including the celebratory Dockyard.
The Dockyard will feature
IX Admiral Schröder as the main reward and Renown'44 as an interim reward. Renown is currently present in our game as part of the newest British battleship branch. However, many of you have pointed out that you'd like to see this ship as she was in 1944, with modernized AA defenses and secondary armament. We decided to add such a version to the game and make it a free reward available to all players.
[h3]
Map Updates[/h3]
Last year, we updated the game graphics and introduced HD versions of a number of maps. Next year, we'll keep adding new maps and update the already available ones. For now, we plan to update the following maps: Mountain Range, Strait, North, Northern Lights, Estuary, Shatter, Neighbors, New Dawn, Polar, Islands, and Land of Fire.
[h3]
Lunar New Year[/h3]
Traditionally, Lunar New Year is celebrated after New Year. You can expect themed content and activities. We'll prepare a new collection and a unique Pan-Asian Commander. The Commander will have personalizations and talents, just like Commanders from other nations.
[h3]
Dirigible Derby: Round 2[/h3]
At the beginning of this year, we presented a new temporary mode—Dirigible Derby—where each of the teams is tasked with escorting their allied dirigible to the destination point and trying to prevent the opposing team from accomplishing the same goal. In winter, the mode will be back with a number of improvements.
During its first appearance in the game, Dirigible Derby became one of the most popular temporary battle types and received great feedback from players.
It's no secret that we regularly test new mechanics in temporary modes with a view to adding them into the game on a permanent basis. Dirigible Derby is just such a case. You often ask us to add new modes to the main battle types. So, if the reworked version of the mode proves to be well received, Dirigible Derby can be the main candidate for introduction into Random Battles in the future.
[h3]
Other Improvements[/h3]
We plan a number of technical improvements for the end of this year.
The game Settings menu will be updated. We're going to change the interface design to make it more convenient. Settings will be stored on the server, and we'll be able to easily add new settings when necessary, thanks to "under-the-bonnet" improvements.
Notification for players in the Port will be updated. We plan a number of improvements to make them more structured and informative.
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[h2]
2023[/h2]
[h2]Bounty Hunting[/h2]
We frequently hold special in-game activities where players need to spot one of our volunteers and contributors in battle and sink them to earn a valuable prize. Such events will be officially supported in the game client in the future. The "hunt" targets will be specifically indicated in the game.
[h2]Collective Combat Missions[/h2]
Collective combat missions are missions with special conditions that require the joint effort of the entire server to be completed. They will be completed as usual combat missions but will be common for all players. Each participant will make a contribution to the overall completion progress. If players manage to complete a collective combat mission, each player who took an active part in the process will receive their reward.
[h2]Achievements[/h2]
We're working on new achievements to be added to the game, including achievements for different game modes (e.g., Clan and Co-op Battles). This will allow the gameplay to be additionally diversified and highlight players' progress in the game.
[h2]New Ships[/h2]
[h3]
U.S. Hybrid Battleships[/h3]
A branch of U.S. hybrid battleships awaits players in the winter. Three new ships—Nebraska, Delaware, and Louisiana—are in development. We can safely say that they will be armed with 406 mm guns. The hulls for these ships are designed based on the battleship branch headed by Montana, and the primary unique feature of the new ships will be the ability to launch squadrons similar to aircraft carriers and other hybrid ships.
[h3]
European Destroyers[/h3]
Another branch of European destroyers will be introduced next year. It will bring in representatives of several European countries, such as Poland, Norway, Turkey, and Greece. These will be Tier V–X destroyers with powerful artillery armament having a caliber of up to 140 mm.
We'll keep releasing special videos of the Waterline series once per quarter! We'll share new information and our plans for the upcoming 6 months with you, as well as explain why we make any changes to the already announced plans. Stay tuned!
World of Warships Team
Update 0.11.8 will see four Brawls unleashed in different formats. Round 1 will be held in a 3 vs.3 format playing Tier VIII aircraft carriers.
7,000 Coal, 
1,500,000 Credits, 54,000 Elite Commander XP, 42 combat signals, and 12 expendable economic bonuses.
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Format: 3 vs. 3 playing Tier VIII aircraft carriers
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