Windward

Windward

Released May 2015

Windward is an action-filled multiplayer sandbox game that puts you in control of a ship sailing the high seas of a large procedurally-generated world.

79% positive · 3,622 reviews
Done
All announced content has been released
High confidence
Done
All announced content has been released
High confidence

Where to buy

Steam $9.99
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Evaluation

Windward launched out of Early Access on May 12, 2015, reaching version 1.0. Following launch, the developer shipped a notable feature update in October 2015 (adding new ships, modding improvements, and ship customization). After that, developer activity on the original Windward game went quiet. Starting in April 2024, the developer's attention shifted entirely to Windward Horizon, a full sequel to this game — announced as a separate Steam product (App ID 2665460). The news posts from 2024 and 2025 are all about that sequel: playtest weekends in May and July 2024, a Steam Next Fest demo in February 2025, and a developer recap in March 2025 describing ongoing work toward Windward Horizon's 1.0 release. These communications are posted on the original Windward's store page as a convenience to existing owners (who received free playtest access), but they describe a separate, standalone product. The original Windward game itself has received no new content since 2015 and has no announced future content. It launched as a complete game at 1.0 and has no unreleased DLC or outstanding content commitments. The game is a finished product.
Evidence
Developer announced Windward Horizon, a separate sequel game on Steam, signaling that future development efforts are focused on a new product rather than the original Windward.
news post · Apr 18, 2024 source development ending
high
Windward officially left Early Access and reached version 1.0 on May 12, 2015.
news post · May 12, 2015 source content shipped
high

Media

Details

Publisher
Tasharen Entertainment Inc.
Achievements
31
Platform
Windows, macOS, Linux
Controller
full support
Steam Deck
Not rated
Players
Single-player · Multiplayer · Co-op

About this game

Every journey in Windward is unique. Generate a world that is yours alone, filled with dynamic towns, unpredictable encounters, and a growing network of trade and conflict. As you sail further from your starting point, the challenges intensify, but so do the rewards. Pirates lurk in uncharted waters, and the AI, bound by the same rules as you, must explore and adapt just as you do.

Windward is designed for both solo and cooperative play. While you can sail alone, the experience truly comes alive with friends. Work together to expand your influence, take on dangerous foes, and build a thriving faction. As your reputation grows, friendly AI may even choose to follow and assist you in your adventures.

Your ship is your lifeline, and choosing the right one matters. Fast Schooners are ideal for exploration, while massive Ships of the Line bring unmatched firepower to battle. As towns prosper through trade and questing, they offer new upgrades and more powerful ships, allowing you to adapt to the ever-changing world.

How you shape your journey is entirely up to you. Fight off pirates, trade with growing towns, take on quests, or simply explore the open waters. Towns will respond to your actions, growing as you supply their needs. Build a fearsome reputation, and the AI will take notice—some will challenge you, while others will choose to stay out of your way.

Set sail and carve your path in a world that evolves with you.

Last evaluated Jun 28, 2026
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