Naval Battles

[Tomisama]

Naval Tactics 101

If you are up wind you have the advantage of closing quickly with the enemy. If you are down wind you can run away from the fight.

It is my understanding that the former windward approach (more aggressive but risky) was favored by the English (who had more ships to lose), and the opposite leeward attack was favored by the French of the same period (who had less). Neither was exclusive, but the consideration of the larger picture was of some effect.

If tacking is not required in the game, then most probably where the wind comes from may be nullified also. Does anyone have any definite knowledge?