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THE ENCYCLOPEDIA

Drake

CAMPAIGNS & SCENARIOS · AGE OF EMPIRES II ONLY

CAMPAIGN · VICTORS AND VANQUISHED

Drake

Francis Drake’s small expedition must finance itself by raiding Spanish colonies and capturing treasure ships. Clear defended settlements carefully, collect the gold they yield, and protect the two special vessels throughout the voyage.

Drake scenario map icon
Drake scenario map icon

Overview

Francis Drake’s small expedition must finance itself by raiding Spanish colonies and capturing treasure ships. Clear defended settlements carefully, collect the gold they yield, and protect the two special vessels throughout the voyage.

Player approach

Drake rewards careful naval captures: healthy captured Galleons provide more gold, while the Pascha is weak against most land units. Move slowly and protect the limited healing available to the force.

Step-by-step plan

Use the starting fleet to capture War Galleys and Cannon Galleons when possible, focusing on ships that can be separated from their escorts. Withdraw damaged ships instead of sacrificing them and keep captured vessels protected while they are being scuttled for gold. Use the Pascha to pressure units at range but keep it away from towers and Organ Guns. Kite enemy groups apart and use the extra ships to attack towers from safer water.

Risks and adjustments

Do not accidentally sink ships you intend to capture, and protect captured vessels until the resource conversion finishes. Healing is limited, so avoid simultaneous engagements on several fronts.

Focused strategy page

For a dedicated version of this plan, open Drake captured-ship resource plan.

Mission overview

Francis Drake’s small expedition must finance itself by raiding Spanish colonies and capturing treasure ships. Clear defended settlements carefully, collect the gold they yield, and protect the two special vessels throughout the voyage.

Objectives

  1. Plunder 40,000 gold from Spanish settlements and shipping.
  2. Keep Francis Drake alive.
  3. Keep the Pascha and Swan alive.
Focus
Scenario · Single-player scenario pack
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