Havendock

Havendock is a charming and detailed colony simulation and resource management game developed by YYZ and published by Different Tales. Released in Early Access, the game puts players in the role of an aspiring sea-steader, tasking them with building and managing a thriving settlement entirely on the open ocean.

From Raft to Metropolis

The premise of Havendock is one of isolation and ingenuity. The player is stranded on a small, floating platform and must immediately begin scavenging, farming, and building to survive. The core gameplay loop focuses on two main pillars: expansion and automation.

• Scavenging and Resource Collection: The surrounding ocean is filled with floating debris (wood, plastic, metal) which must be collected using nets or diving. These basic materials form the foundation for all construction. Water and power are perpetual concerns, requiring systems like desalination plants and wind turbines.

• Building the Dock: The player expands the settlement by carefully placing wooden foundations, gradually creating a multi-tiered, customized haven. This is crucial for separating functional areas like farms, crafting stations, and living quarters.

• Research and Progression: By crafting research stations and dedicating settlers to studies, the player unlocks new technologies—from complex machinery (like smelters and sawmills) to advanced medical facilities and recreational structures.

Managing the Settlers

A major component of Havendock is the management of the growing population of survivors who eventually drift to the haven. These settlers are the lifeblood of the operation, but they come with needs and personalities:

• Needs and Morale: Settlers require food, clean water, rest, and happiness. Failing to meet these needs leads to low morale, which can cause them to work slower or even leave the settlement. Building kitchens, beds, and leisure structures (like parks and bars) is essential.

• Job Assignment and Automation: Players must assign settlers specific jobs—farming, cooking, fishing, crafting, and research. Crucially, the game allows for a deep level of automation using conveyor belts, sorters, and automated crafting machines. Creating efficient logistical chains is key to handling the increasing demands of a larger population.

Exploration and Threats

The calm ocean setting belies a few challenges and opportunities for exploration:

• Diving and Deep-Sea Resources: Building a diving bell or submarine allows players to explore the ocean floor for rare materials not found on the surface.

• Pirates and Environmental Events: Occasional raids from hostile survivors or random environmental disasters (like intense storms or oil spills) require the player to manage defense and disaster recovery.

Havendock provides a relaxing yet complex building experience, often compared to the satisfying automation loops of games like Factorio but with a unique, cozy seasteading aesthetic. The game is praised for its continuous updates and the freedom it offers to design one's perfect floating paradise.