A captured vessel could join the navy, but taking the prize money provides cash for immediate repairs and other campaign needs. Retaining the ship would add another hull to the fleet. The choice makes the economic aftermath of a naval action visible rather than ending the story when the firing stops. Even in the game's simplified system, victory creates a choice between expanding the force and restoring the ships already available.
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Captured ships versus prize money
After a naval victory, the choice between keeping a captured ship and taking prize money turns victory at sea into a fleet-finance decision.