Maelstrom Tips & Tricks: How to Dominate the High Seas
The sea is brutal, the competition is fierce, and only the cleverest captains will live to tell the tale.
A new and improved version of Maelstrom is coming soon to Somnia, thanks to Uprising Labs. This updated release will build on everything that makes the game great, with added Web3 features that reward skilled players and create new ways to compete. But there’s no reason to wait. The current version is already packed with action and absolutely worth jumping into now.
Maelstrom is a fast-paced naval combat game where you command fantasy-inspired warships across deadly waters. Orcs, dwarves, humans, and other factions battle for gold and survival in shrinking arenas filled with sea monsters, hazards, and hidden powerups. It’s a game of timing, positioning, and smart decision-making. If you want to rise through the ranks, you’ll need more than firepower. You’ll need a plan.
Here are some tips to get you started.
1. Omnidirectional Fire is a Game-Changer
Some ships in Maelstrom have the ability to fire in more than two directions, and this is an enormous tactical advantage. These ships can kite enemies, fend off flankers, and keep pressure on opponents while maneuvering freely. If you're still using a ship with limited firing arcs, consider unlocking a more versatile option early on.
2. Don’t Underestimate the Controller
Unlike many other PvP games, using a controller in Maelstrom isn't a handicap. In fact, for players comfortable with analog steering, it can be a smoother experience. Fast reactions, subtle course adjustments, and quick weapon swaps feel intuitive with a controller, so don’t be afraid to connect one. X-Box controllers connect very easily to a PC with bluetooth.
3. Diversify Your Fleet
As you start accumulating gold, don’t dump it all into upgrading a single ship. Owning multiple ships allows you to claim a wider variety of bonuses, crew members, and daily quest rewards. It also makes you more adaptable to different playstyles and match conditions.
4. Stay Away From the Edge
The creeping dark around the edge of the map isn’t just aesthetic, it’s deadly. It shrinks faster than many players expect, especially later in the match. Stay mindful of your positioning, and don’t let a late-game skirmish drag you into oblivion.
5. Gold Isn’t Just for Show
A surprising number of players ignore gold floating around the map, and will even leave powerups laying around after battle. Don’t be one of them. Picking up gold boosts your income, helps with ship upgrades, and gives you long-term momentum. Grab every piece of gold that you possibly can.
6. Third-Party Like a Pirate
Don’t be afraid to lurk on the edges of a battle. Let two opponents weaken each other, then swoop in to finish off the survivor or get them both while they’re low on health if you can pull it off.
7. Dismiss Bad Quests Early
Quests can reward you with valuable resources and bonuses, but some are just not worth pursuing or not relevant to your current build. If you know a quest doesn't align with your ship, playstyle, or current goals, dismiss it quickly so you can reroll into something achievable.
8. Use the Environment Offensively
The ocean itself can be your weapon. Knock enemies into maelstroms, dark waters, or sea monster zones. It’s especially effective in the late game when the map tightens and mistakes become fatal.
9. Know When to Retreat
Battles are fun, but knowing when to cut your losses and escape is essential. Save time for your repairs, regroup, and come back stronger. Reckless fights often lead to early eliminations and patience can win games.
10. Master the Terrain
Streams can give your ship a speed boost, and fog can help you escape pursuit or set up an ambush. Use these environmental features to outmaneuver enemies or break line-of-sight.
Ready to Play?
Winning in Maelstrom means playing smart, adapting quickly, and knowing when to strike or slip away. Keep these tips in mind as you sail the deadly seas, and you’ll start racking up more gold, more kills, and more wins.
If you’ve got your own strategies or ship loadouts that work well, drop them in the comments below!
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