Hi Guys,
This is my first post (I realize this is hardly relevant ), but I have been lurking around the forums for sometime in guest
mode.
As to the question at hand, I agree with the OP that naval combat would be a good addition to the game. That being said, I think a fun, non-playable way to increase the role of the Merchant Republics would be to make them naval mercenaries.
They could be set up much like the religious orders, and even ask to build a city in a newly conquered territory (like the
knights do with castles). This would be a representation of the "quarters" that they often set up in coastal cities (particular-
ly the Levant). Couple this with a simple overseas trade/supply system and I think it would add another fun, immersive
mechanic to represent the time period.
I'm a new found PI addict (only EU III and Rome so far) and can hardly wait for this one to come out. Thanks for reading !
Welcome to the forums. Some good ideas there.