Sea of Thieves Sloop Guide

Sea of Thieves Sloop Guide

Knowing the Sloop’s mechanics and tactics will change your game, whether you’re a new swashbuckler in the vast Sea of Thieves or a seasoned marauder. Designed to maximize maneuverability and efficiency, this small but nimble ship can carry up to two pirates.

Solo slooping can be a difficult but effective tactic for players trying to raise their performance. This Sea of Thieves Sloop guide offers practical tips on mastering the craft of sailing and fighting with this unique ship.

Sloop’s Layout

Sloop's Layout

A critical first step in your journey as a Sloop marauder in Sea of Thieves is getting to grips with the ship’s layout. This vessel’s split-deck design is as straightforward as it is effective. The helm and sail controls are located on the upper deck at the stern, while the Map Table, Voyage Table, and the Weapon and Ammo Chest are neatly tucked away below.

The Sloop’s bow features an upper deck adorned with cannons and cannonball barrels. Descend to the lower deck, and you’ll find a wood barrel, two food barrels, and a stove, perfect for those long voyages. Don’t forget to check out the cozy mattress tucked away for when you need to rest from battling krakens or seeking treasure.

Sloop Mechanics in Combat

When it comes to a brawl in Sea of Thieves, the Sloop may seem less formidable compared to Brigantines and Galleons. However, its smaller size and fewer cannons do not make it any less dangerous in the hands of a skilled pirate. The key to using the Sloop effectively in combat is to utilize its superior maneuverability and carefully consider positioning and firing placement.

Unlike larger vessels, the Sloop is designed to take less damage from ram attacks and can inflict more damage when ramming. Its resilience is further enhanced by the location of its holes:

  • Front holes are below the waterline, reducing the risk of sinking.
  • Rear holes are above the waterline, further improving durability.

The Sloop’s advantage shines when sailing into the wind while pursued by larger ships, a testament to its speedy design.

Solo Slooping

Solo Slooping

Solo slooping, the act of managing a Sloop on your own, is a popular Sea of Thieves strategy. The solo player needs to handle all tasks alone, from steering the ship to bucketing water, from manning cannons to repairing holes. It’s a strategy that truly tests and refines your skills.

Proper organization of cannon barrels is key to success. Keep chain shots, firebombs, and blunderbombs in the lower barrel, with regular cannonballs in the top barrel for easy access.

In combat, lifting the sail slightly provides extra control during a PvP encounter, allowing you to predict your ship’s movement without needing to steer constantly. An array of tactics, from sword hopping to dodging obstacles and chain-shotting enemy masts, all play a part in your battle plan.

The true Sloop maestro, however, has more than just the basics under their belt. Advanced tactics, such as the fort maneuver, where you sail towards a fort to retrieve kegs for attacking pursuers, can catch many enemies off guard.

Moreover, you can employ the fort trap strategy, in which you lure an enemy ship to a fort, anchor it near a tower, and blow it up with a keg. These intricate strategies can turn the tide of battle and make the Sloop a vessel to be feared on the Sea of Thieves.