THE virtual flotilla available in World of Warships has grown larger with the addition of a (fictionalised) Australian cruiser and a (fictional) Australian bushranger-slash-pirate named Matilda Kelly.
In real life there have been three ships named HMAS Brisbane – a WWI light cruiser, a 1960s guided missile destroyer, and a recently-commissioned (and currently in active service) anti-aircraft cruiser – but the version in World of Warships is more of a “What-If?” design, drawing inspiration from Korean War-era ships to represent a possible vessel that might have sailed with the RAN.
According to the official announcement, the Tier X ship has powerful and advanced air defence, and has a main battery comprising ten dual-purpose 152mm main guns.
Publishers Wargaming go on to note that from a gameplay perspective, “the ship is similar to the cruiser Minotaur, but with significant gameplay differences. Brisbane is equipped with HE shells, class-standard AP shells, and enhanced torpedo armament. The ship’s torpedoes are distinguished by a large number in a salvo and a good range.”
They further explain the Brisbane has weak armour and low visibility, but trades that off with advanced Specialised Repair Teams which can restore a significant quantity of hit points in-battle, as well as a higher-perfomance engine which allows the ship to quickly pick up speed.
It rounds out with the consumables; Hydroacoustic Search and Surveillance Radar, which are particularly useful for spotting enemy submarines and aircraft (as well a ships).
The story for Matilda Kelly begins in the 19th century, with the character being apprehended following an unsuccessful attack on a Royal Navy Man O’War. As happened to rather a lot of lawbreakers at the time, she is sentenced to transportation for life in Australia
Wargaming’s official announcment encourages players to “Join Matilda as she braves her way through the continent in search of a legendary ship which is said to help escaped convicts to reach safe haven. Destination—the mythical continent of Mu.”
The rewards for completing the missions are “Pirate Tokens”, which can be used in the armoury to unlock special content, including Brisbane and Matilda Kelly, who also has a unique voice-over.
Kelly is the first Australian naval commander in the game
