This is a good feature but I'm afraid it should be optional. Forcing decisions like this is in my opinion completely wrong.
Why I think being forced to merge fleets is wrong is because there are some instances where it is disadvantageous.
I'll use a Milan game for example.
It's early game and you've scrapped your transports for 4 light ships.
They are on a mission to protect the Venice trade node. You have the return to port in War box checked.
Venice declares war on you and before you can return home your 4 light ships are wiped by the venetian navy. Arumba suggests that you should have a pop up at engagement and you can disengage after 8 days. But let's say it was the Ottomans that declared War and they have 60 galley fleet with inland sea bonus- your 4 ships won't last 8 days.
A way around this fate is to have 4 fleets protecting the trade routes. You may lose 1 or 2 at the outbreak of war but you'd still have 2 light ships and save 40 gold.
This doesn't seem a lot but in the early game small things like this matter.
As I said I'm not against the idea as it essentially is a great addition but it should be optional for those who prefer to micromanage their small but precious ships.
Why I think being forced to merge fleets is wrong is because there are some instances where it is disadvantageous.
I'll use a Milan game for example.
It's early game and you've scrapped your transports for 4 light ships.
They are on a mission to protect the Venice trade node. You have the return to port in War box checked.
Venice declares war on you and before you can return home your 4 light ships are wiped by the venetian navy. Arumba suggests that you should have a pop up at engagement and you can disengage after 8 days. But let's say it was the Ottomans that declared War and they have 60 galley fleet with inland sea bonus- your 4 ships won't last 8 days.
A way around this fate is to have 4 fleets protecting the trade routes. You may lose 1 or 2 at the outbreak of war but you'd still have 2 light ships and save 40 gold.
This doesn't seem a lot but in the early game small things like this matter.
As I said I'm not against the idea as it essentially is a great addition but it should be optional for those who prefer to micromanage their small but precious ships.
