The Jump Start booklet contains the basic rules and a starter scenario, and is only 16 pages. During the design of CaS , we spent a lot of time developing the game models and systems to reduce the number of dice rolled for combat. Underlying the simple number values are complex spreadsheets and computer programs used to develop the values to accurately reflect weapons system and armor performance based on historical data. The actual game mechanics are very simple and clean. Instead of rolling for each shell fired, you roll for three minutes of fire.
Damage is allocated by overall damage as well as critical hits.
But a Fool - expands the CaS rules to cover the battles between ships and coastal fortifications.