S2_Boarding_Party.jpg. Having successfully boarded an enemy vessel, all that remains is to wipe out the crew and the boat will be captured as part of your fleet.

S2_Bow_Monk.jpg. A bow monk is one of the most highly skilled in Japan and far more accurate than ashigaru or samurai archers.

S2_Calm_before_the_Storm.jpg. For the first time in the Total War series, naval battles take place in coastal regions. This allows a far greater level of strategy as you attempt to both out manoeuvre and outgun the enemy. Also making their naval debut – birds!

S2_Floating_Fortress.jpg. Boats powered by oars rather than sail allow for precise command of your fleets movements, no longer reliant of the will of the wind. Of course, a smaller ship will usually be more agile, if not boasting the same level of stopping power.

S2_Tower_Ship.jpg. The siege tower ship is very affective at boarding and bombards ships with heavy gunfire. Here you can see it escorting a trade ship across the Japanese waters.