Re: New edition of Starmada coming in January!
With solar wind shouldn't you move fastest when you are traveling perpendicular to the direction of the wind?
Seconded. I also play Eldar, so I was excited to see this. I also play Age of Sail games AND I grew up sailing.
I think this could be implemented in a way that is both more "realistic" (whatever that's worth in a space-faring game) and presents more tactical challenges. Marauder's suggestion is good. Sails are at their most efficient when reaching. That can't be accurately modeled without resorting to a 12 point facing system. But Wooden Ships and Iron Men did a decent job, using a four point system. I suggest the same:
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So the broad reach is the fastest. The close reach and running are slower. And the no-go zone is slowest.
That said, even if you just went with the two point system, I think the bonus should be in effect on the broad reach, not while running.