From Tugboat to LNG Tanker: Professional Ship Simulator Launches Today with Nine Ship Types!

Today, September 16, Professional Ship Simulator enters Early Access on Steam. The game is being developed by the small studio SWE Systems and published by Aerosoft. Anyone who would first like to try out whether the more technical approach suits their taste can still find a free demo on Steam.

The most striking aspect at launch is the range of playable ships. The developer names nine types in total: tugboat, fishing trawler, rescue ship, offshore vessel, yacht, container ship, bulk carrier, LNG tanker and cruise ship. The fleet therefore ranges from small, comparatively agile workboats to large merchant ships, where even maneuvering safely in port becomes a task.

The various ships are not meant to differ only in size and appearance. Among other things, Professional Ship Simulator calculates propeller torque, the influence of nearby shores on the vessel, drift caused by wind and currents, as well as the behavior of anchors and lines. Power generation, propulsion and navigation are also implemented as operable systems. Larger ships offer additional control stations, while radar with AIS and CPA functions, sonar and radio assist with navigation.

Mistakes are meant to have noticeable consequences. The hull can be damaged, water can enter, and towing or berthing maneuvers are also simulated physically. Added to this are a day-night cycle, moving weather fronts, fog, rain, snow and heavy seas. Real-world weather data can even be incorporated optionally. At the same time, AI ship traffic on open routes and in more densely trafficked ports ensures that we are not alone on the water.

Two large regions are available at Early Access launch. According to the Steam description, the area around Rügen measures 60 by 120 kilometers, while the Strait of Dover measures as much as 140 by 140 kilometers. Both landscapes are based on real geographic data. More than 40 ports, authentic navigational markers and navigation lights are intended to give the regions a credible maritime infrastructure.

A large map alone, however, would not yet make a game. Eight different mission types are therefore intended to provide concrete tasks. These include cargo transport, ferry trips, fishing with sonar, offshore logistics, tug assistance, buoy maintenance, rescue operations and firefighting. For successful assignments, we earn money, expand our fleet and unlock the required licenses. Alternatively, the regions can also be explored freely.

Despite this scope, it is important not to confuse the launch with a finished full version. The developer itself describes it as a foundation that is to be expanded together with the community. According to current plans, the Early Access phase is expected to last until around mid-2027. This period may still change depending on feedback and new features. Further ships, missions, scenarios inspired by real operations and more detailed tutorials are planned.

The announced modding support is also not included on the first day. Later, it is supposed to become possible to create custom ships, missions, landscape expansions, sounds and flags. SWE Systems has announced the integration for the period after launch, but has not yet given a firm date. Steam also lists Professional Ship Simulator as a single-player title. The current description does not promise a multiplayer mode.

The technical ambition clearly sets Professional Ship Simulator apart from games in which we merely accelerate and steer a boat. At the same time, this is the greatest challenge: The many systems must be explained clearly, work reliably and actually give the different ships a credible handling feel. Nine ship types and more than 40 ports are a strong starting point, but the quality of Early Access will ultimately be determined by physics, controls and stability.

After launch, we will take a look for ourselves at how convincingly the ships have already been implemented and where the early version still needs improvement. Which vessel would you take over first: the agile tugboat, a rescue ship or the gigantic LNG tanker right away?

Direct source: Professional Ship Simulator on Steam