Combat

Keyboard controlsXBox Controls
Combat is action based as there is no 'tab targeting' available. Keep in mind that different weapons have different ranges. The Cutlass requires melee (close) range which may also increase the probability of taking damage. Other weapons can be used at range, but require ammunition. When a weapon such as a Flintlock or Blunderbuss is equipped, the current amount of available ammo shows on the player's UI in the lower right corner. Weapons can be equipped and used by pressing the relative button or key (see images above).

The Cannons need to be loaded with Cannonballs (or players if using it to leave the ship) and aimed at the target. In order to sink a ship, the vessel will need to take on water. Cannon shots that hit above the waterline will punch holes into the hull and deck, but are not nessessarily an immediate concern for the enemy. Shots through the same hole will not do additional damage but can stop a player who is attempting to repair it.

While at an outpost, be sure to check the area for other boats. It's probably a good idea to leave someone on the ship to keep watch. This works better obviously with a full team of four. If another ship is near, players may want to stay further away from shore and potentially lure the curious and bloodthirsty enemy pirates away while the rest of the team runs the booty to the shore and turns it in. Other options could include having a single player swim and board the enemy ship to kill their spotter, or use them as a decoy.

Tip:Proximity chat works for everybody, even enemy pirates. If you are using a mic and have it enabled for chat, be aware than you could inadvertently give your position away when adventuring on-shore.

## Swordfighting

Sword fighting in *Sea of Thieves* uses a combo system. Pressing the cutlass swing button continuously (LMB - PC) will perform a left-right-left combo strike with each hit removing 1/5th of the player's total health. There is a short delay between each combo. If an enemy moves during a combo, try hitting the ground or nearby object with the next swing to avoid losing combo momentum.

Players can also block and dodge an attack. Dodging is performed by holding the block button (RMB - PC) and jumping in any direction (W,S,A,D + Space - PC). Blocking a combo strike will interrupt the combo and both players will be pushed back and have about two seconds to recover and regain control of the fight. Also there is no need to release the block and reapply it between incoming strikes. Just hold it down and move as needed.

Lunging is a high damage strike that cannot be blocked. It is performed by holding down the strike button (LMB - PC) for a little longer. A lunge can take a full health player to half, but the attacker will be out of breath for about two seconds, leaving them vulnerable.

The Jump/Lunge is a more advanced technique. This is done by starting the lunge attack, but hitting the jump button just before the lunge actually dashes forward. This will basically fly the player through the air at the attacker. Players may want to practice this a few times as the timing has to be perfect. Preferably on land and not the ship's deck, or you may find yourself going for an unexpected swim. Speaking of swimming, give it a try in the ocean. Players have been seen using this technique to cross the waters faster.