Misc Games is preparing to bring its maritime world to life with Ships at Sea Update v0.8.8, which introduces the first iteration of its non-player character (NPC) vessel traffic system. The update will add autonomous boats and ships to the game’s waters, bringing movement and activity as players travel between ports, complete contracts, and explore the coastline.
The new system will let NPC vessels navigate independently while reacting to the water and waves like player-controlled vessels. Boats will produce splash effects as they move, with wake effects also planned for the update, while sailboats will feature dynamically adjusting sails that respond to changing wind conditions. Together, these additions aim to improve the realism of maritime traffic and make the surrounding waters feel less static during everyday gameplay.
Players will encounter a variety of vessels, including sailboats, motorboats, fishing boats, and other types of maritime traffic. Although Ships At Sea Update v0.8.8 introduces the system, the developers intend to use it as a foundation for future expansion, with additional vessel types, behaviors, and interactions planned as development continues.
The update will also improve the World Map with a vessel-tracking system inspired by real-world maritime monitoring tools. NPC vessels will appear as white icons, the player’s own vessels will be marked in blue, and vessels operated by other players will be highlighted in yellow, making it easier to identify nearby traffic and understand activity across the surrounding waters.
Selecting an NPC vessel on the World Map opens a Vessel Information window with details such as its vessel type, available rigging information, and associated maritime company. Players can also expand additional information for a more detailed overview of the vessels operating in the area.
Ships At Sea is a maritime simulation game focused on operating vessels, completing contracts, and navigating the waters around Norway’s Lofoten Islands. Developed by Misc Games, the title entered Early Access on Steam in June 2025, with ongoing development focused on expanding its simulation systems and improving the overall experience.
Misc Games has added new content to the game monthly, with three significant additions since August: tier 2 cranes, the MacDuff partnership, and tier 3 fishing vessels. The game is available in early access via Steam starting at $24.99. For more information on update v0.8.8, as well as previous patches like the Lighthouse Beacon, be sure to check back to Simulation Daily.
