eSail Sailing Simulator is an authentic yacht sailing experience with numerous tutorials, sailing, mooring and anchoring modes, charting, challenges, races, Live Sailing mode, 'Learn Yachting with eSail' and more.
Players praise the game's authentic simulation of sailing a yacht. They highlight how the physics and handling feel remarkably realistic, requiring players to properly raise the mainsail, trim the sails, adjust the backstay, and use winches and jammers to control the boat. Reviewers with real-world sailing experience note the game accurately captures the feel and responsiveness of a sailboat, from the hull's interaction with waves to the luffing of the sails.
The game features an extensive series of interactive, narrated tutorials that teach players everything from the basics of sailing to advanced techniques like anchoring, mooring, and navigation. Reviewers consistently praise the clarity and effectiveness of these tutorials in building essential sailing knowledge and skills, noting the game could serve as an excellent complement to real-world sailing instruction.
Players can test their skills through a variety of challenges, including races against AI-controlled boats, treasure hunts requiring precise boat handling, and steering challenges navigating through buoys. Reviewers enjoy the sense of progression and accomplishment that comes from mastering these challenges, which offer an engaging way to put their sailing skills to the test.
The game's fictional Shearwater Islands setting provides an open-world environment for players to freely explore. As they sail around, they can discover various points of interest, such as shipwrecks and hidden coves, which unlock additional areas of the map. Reviewers appreciate the sense of discovery and the ability to plan longer voyages between the different island destinations.
Reviewers highlight the game's attention to detail, praising features like the ability to manually adjust the jib travelers and backstay, as well as the realistic simulation of anchoring and mooring. These fine-tuned mechanics contribute to the overall sense of realism and immersion in the sailing experience.