Cease The Ships

Introduction

Welcome to Cease the Ships! We are thrilled to have you embark on this nautical adventure. This manual is designed to help you navigate through the game with ease, understand its intricate mechanics, and fully immerse yourself in the strategic challenges that await. Whether you're defending your flagship or launching a daring offensive, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to succeed. Prepare to dive deep into the world of naval warfare, master your ship pieces, and enjoy every moment of your adventure in "Cease the Ships."

Game Overview

Cease the Ships is a captivating turn-based board game set on the vast and unpredictable ocean. In this strategic maritime adventure, players assume the role of a Commander, a skilled and tactical official responsible for leading the ship pieces to victory. Your mission is to outmaneuver, outthink, and overpower your opponent by capturing their flagship while ensuring the safety of your own.

As a Commander, you will command a variety of ship pieces, each with its own unique attributes and abilities. These pieces are not just tools of war but vital components of your overall strategy. The game challenges players to utilize these ships effectively, balancing offensive strikes with defensive maneuvers to gain the upper hand.

The game board represents the sea/ocean, divided into a grid where players move their ships turn by turn. Each turn offers a range of strategic decisions, from positioning your ships to launching attacks.

Installation Instructions

To get started with Cease the Ships, follow these simple steps to download and install the game on your device. But before you begin, ensure that your device meets the following recommended system requirements for better performance of the game.

Recommended System Requirements

Platform: Mobile Operating System: Android 11 RAM: 4 GB Storage: 64 GB Language: English

Step 1: Search and Download

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. In the search bar at the top, type "Cease the Ships" and press Enter.
3. Look for the game in the search results. It should be listed with its official icon and name.
4. Tap on the Cease the Ships listing to open the game's page.
5. Click on the "Install" button to begin downloading the game. Ensure you have a stable internet connection for a smooth download.

Step 2: Install the Game

1. Once the download is complete, tap on the "Open" button that appears on the Google Play Store page, or find the downloaded file in your notification bar.
2. Follow the on-screen installation instructions. You may need to grant certain permissions for the game to function correctly.
3. Wait for the installation process to complete. This may take a few moments depending on your device's performance.

Step 3: Launch the Game

1. After the installation is complete, you can find the Cease the Ships icon on your home screen or in your app drawer.
2. Tap on the Cease the Ships icon to launch the game.
3. Enjoy navigating the seas and commanding your game pieces as you dive into the strategic world of Cease the Ships!

Getting Started

Learn the basics to start playing Cease the Ships and dive into the strategic depths of naval warfare.

Launching the Game

1. Launch Cease the Ships from your home screen or app drawer.
2. Upon opening the game, you will be presented with two options: "Join your Troops" or "Join the Battle".

Creating an Account: Join your Troops

1. If you select "Join your Troops", you will need to create an account.
2. Fill out the required details, including:
   • Commander's Name: Choose your preferred name for your in-game identity.
   • Email: Provide a valid email address.
   • Password: Create a secure password for your account.
3. After entering your information, tap the "Join your Troops" button to complete the registration.

Logging In: Join the Battle

1. If you select "Join the Battle", ensure you have already created an account.
2. Enter your login details:
   • Email: Use the email address you registered with.
   • Password: Enter your account password.
3. Tap the "Join" button to log in.

Main Menu

Once logged in, you will be directed to the main menu. Here, you will find several options:

• Deploy: Start a new game and enter the gameplay.
• Load Game: Access and continue your saved games.
• How to Play: View tutorials and learn the game mechanics.
• Settings: Adjust background music, sound effects, and other game preferences.
• Quit: Exit to the main menu or close the game.

Additionally, you can access your profile by clicking the Profile Icon on the top left of your screen. This will allow you to view and edit your account details.

Starting a Game: Deploy

1. Click the Deploy button to begin setting up a new game.
2. In the Deployment Settings, select your preferred game options:
   • Game Timer: Choose the duration of the game.
   • Play Mode: Select between different modes such as Beginner and Pro.
   • Handicap: Adjust the difficulty or any advantages/disadvantages for players.
   • Preferred Color of Game Pieces: Choose your desired color for your game pieces.
3. Once you have configured all settings, click the Deploy button to start the game.
4. Enjoy the strategic gameplay and remember: Protect your Flagship at all costs!

Controls and Interface

Understanding the controls and interface elements of Cease the Ships is essential for smooth and efficient gameplay. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the game:

Main Menu Controls

• Retreat Button: Tap the back button to return to the previous menu or exit the current screen.
• Join your Troops: Sign up to create a new account.
• Join the Battle: Log in to your existing account.
• Deploy Button: Start a new game and enter the main gameplay.
• Load Game: Browse and play your saved games.
• How to Play: Access tutorials and learn about game mechanics.
• Settings: Adjust background music, sound effects, and other game preferences.
• About: View information about the game and its developers.

In-Game Controls

• Move Ship: Tap and drag the ship to the desired grid location. Ensure that the movement complies with the game's mechanics and rules.
• Destroy: Select your ship, then tap and drag to target an enemy ship for attack.
• Undo Buttons: Tap to undo your last move or action if you need to make changes.
• Resign: Tap to resign from the game, allowing your opponent to win.
• Offer Draw: Tap to propose a draw to your opponent.
• Save Game: Tap to save your current game progress.

Additional Interface Elements

• Profile Icon: Located at the top left of the screen, tap to view and edit your profile information.
• Game Timer: Displays the time remaining for each turn. Make sure to complete your moves within the allotted time.

Game Modes

Cease the Ships offers different game modes. Explore the options available and choose the mode that best suits your playstyle:

Beginner Mode

• Overview: Ideal for new players or those looking to practice and refine their strategies.
• Features:
  • Undo Buttons: This mode includes undo buttons, allowing you to reverse your moves if you make a mistake or change your mind. This feature helps players learn the mechanics and develop their skills without the pressure of permanent consequences.

If you're new to Cease the Ships, start with Beginner Mode. Here, you can use the undo buttons to correct any errors and get a feel for the game mechanics. This mode is perfect for practicing different strategies and understanding how each ship functions without the risk of permanent mistakes.

Pro Mode

• Overview: Designed for experienced players who want a more challenging and competitive experience.
• Features:
  • No Undo Buttons: This mode removes the undo buttons, requiring players to commit to their moves. This adds a layer of strategic depth and realism, as every decision is final.
  • Competitive Play: Perfect for players who enjoy a high-stakes environment and want to test their abilities against the opponents.

Once you're comfortable with the game mechanics, switch to Pro Mode for a more intense experience. In this mode, every move counts, and there's no room for error. You'll need to think carefully and plan your strategy meticulously to outmaneuver your opponent and claim victory.

Characters

Understanding the various characters (ships) in Cease the Ships is essential for developing effective strategies and mastering the game. Each ship has unique movement and attack capabilities, as well as specific roles in your fleet. Here is a detailed overview of each:

Airplane Carrier

• Movement: Moves 1 grid in any direction (front, back, left, or right).
• Attack: Can destroy a piece 2 grids away diagonally.
• Role: A versatile and powerful piece, the Airplane Carrier is crucial for long-range attacks.

Destroyer

• Movement: Moves 1 grid in straight directions (front, back, left, or right). On its first turn, it has a special ability to move 2 grids.
• Attack: Attacks 1 grid in straight directions (front, back, left, or right).
• Role: A balanced piece, the Destroyer is effective for both offense and defense, capable of quick movements to capture key positions on the board.

Destroyer with Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)

• Movement: Moves 1 grid in straight directions (front, back, left, or right). On its first turn, it can move 2 grids.
• Attack: Attacks 1 grid in straight directions (front, back, left, or right). Equipped with ASW capabilities.
• Role: Similar to the standard Destroyer but with enhanced capabilities to combat submarines, making it essential for countering attacks.

Dockyard

• Movement: Immobile.
• Role: The Dockyard is a crucial piece in Cease the Ships. Its infiltration determines the winner of the game, making it one of the two key pieces. If the opponent's Repair Ship infiltrates and reaches the Dockyard, they have the ability to promote the Repair Ship into a more powerful ship, such as a Destroyer, Destroyer with ASW, Submarine, Airplane Carrier, or Light Cruiser.

Flagship

• Movement: Moves 1 grid in any direction (front, back, left, or right).
• Attack: Attacks 1 grid in any direction.
• Role: The most critical piece in the game, the Flagship's destruction or capture decides the winner. Defending your Flagship while targeting your opponent's is a primary objective.

Light Cruiser

• Movement: Moves 1 grid in straight directions (front, back, left, or right).
• Attack: Can only attack diagonally.
• Role: The Light Cruiser offers a unique movement and attack pattern, making it useful for positioning and capturing diagonally adjacent enemy pieces.

Repair Ship

• Movement: Moves 1 grid in straight directions (front, back, left, or right).
• Attack: No default attack.
• Special Ability: Can promote to any piece upon infiltration of the opponent’s Dockyard.
• Role: A supportive piece, the Repair Ship can be strategically maneuvered to promote into more powerful pieces, providing flexibility and adaptability in gameplay.

Submarine

• Movement: Moves diagonally.
• Attack: Attacks diagonally and has a unique double diagonal attack.
• Vulnerability: Vulnerable only to ASW-equipped ships.
• Role: A stealthy and potent attacker, the Submarine excels in diagonal movements and surprise attacks but must be cautious of ASW-equipped enemies.

Strategies and Tips

Helpful tips to improve your gameplay.

1. Defense is Key: Always prioritize defense to protect your game pieces, especially your Flagship. Be mindful of the movement and attack capabilities of your opponent's ships to avoid losing crucial pieces.
2. Prevent Repair Ship Promotion: Keep an eye on your opponent's Repair Ship and prevent it from infiltrating your Dockyard. If the Repair Ship promotes, it can become a powerful asset for your opponent.
3. Mind the Submarine: Non-ASW equipped ships cannot destroy submarines. Avoid attacking a submarine unless you have a ship equipped with ASW capabilities.
4. Preserve Your Pieces: Avoid losing all your ships, as this can lead to defeat. Strategically use your ships and anticipate your opponent's moves to maintain a strong fleet.
5. Adapt to Your Opponent: Pay close attention to your opponent's strategy and adapt accordingly. Flexibility and the ability to adjust your tactics can give you the upper hand in the game.
6. Use Promotions Wisely: If your Repair Ship infiltrates the opponent's Dockyard, choose the promotion carefully based on your current game situation and strategic goals.
7. Control the Board: Aim to control key areas of the board to restrict your opponent's movements and create opportunities for strategic maneuvers.
8. Anticipate Promotions: Be aware of the potential for enemy promotions and plan your defenses accordingly. Preventing promotions can significantly impact the course of the game.
9. Utilize ASW Ships: Use ASW-equipped ships effectively to counter submarines and protect your fleet from the attack of submarine.
10. Plan Ahead: Think several moves ahead and anticipate possible outcomes. Develop a long-term strategy while remaining flexible to adapt to changing circumstances.

Troubleshooting

Solutions to common issues you might encounter

1. Game Crashes:

• Issue: The game crashes unexpectedly.
• Solution: Ensure that your device meets the minimum system requirements for the game. Check for any updates for your device's operating system and the game itself. If the issue persists, try restarting your device and relaunching the game.

2. Connection Issues:

• Issue: Unable to connect to the game server.
• Solution: Check your internet connection and ensure that it is stable. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the issue is network-related. Restart the game and try again. If the problem persists, contact the game's support team for further assistance.

3. Game Freezing:

• Issue: The game freezes or becomes unresponsive.
• Solution: Close any background applications that may be using a lot of resources. Ensure that your device has enough storage space and memory available to run the game smoothly. Restart the game and see if the issue is resolved.

4. Login Issues:

• Issue: Unable to log in to your account.
• Solution: Double-check your login credentials to ensure they are correct. If you have forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" option to reset it. If the issue persists, contact the game's support team for assistance.

6. Game Lag:

• Issue: The game is lagging or running slowly.
• Solution: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up resources. Lower the graphics settings in the game to improve performance. Ensure that your device is not overheating, as this can also cause lag. If the issue continues, consider upgrading your device or contacting the game's support team for advice.

If these steps do not resolve your issue, please contact our support team for further assistance. When contacting support, provide detailed information about the issue you are experiencing, including:

• Your device model and operating system version.
• A description of the problem and any error messages you have encountered.
• Steps you have already taken to try and resolve the issue.

Our support team is dedicated to helping you have the best possible experience with Cease the Ships and will respond as quickly as possible to address your concerns.

Credits and Acknowledgements

These individuals and entities played a crucial role in the development of Cease the Ships, contributing their skills, expertise, and support to bring the game to life.

Development Team

UI Designer: Aljohn Baguis and John Roi Cruspe

Programmer: Andrei Molina and Andre Lorenz Embuido

UX Designer and Business Analyst: John Vincent Peñafiel and Andrei Molina

Tester: John Vincent Peñafiel and Steven Jay Paras

Documentation: John Vincent Peñafiel

Special Thanks

Course Adviser: Professor Era Marie Gannaban

Client: Sir Christopher Barrios

Beta Testers and Supporters: To all our beta testers and supporters

Contact Information

For support and inquiries, please contact us at:

• Email: johnvincentpenafiel4@gmail.com

You can browse the actual user's manual here: Cease-the-Ships-User-Manual