Locking In a Direction
Level: Intermediate
Once two consecutive cells are hit, target only the two ends of that line.
Hitting two adjacent cells in a row confirms the ship's orientation (horizontal or vertical). Now, instead of guessing among four directions, you only need to target the two ends of that line.
If one end of the line misses, the ship extends only in the opposite direction. Push all the way in the remaining direction to finish it off.
Locking in a direction sharply reduces the number of shots needed to track a ship down. This game's Skilled and Admiral AI switch to this method the instant two hits line up.
Related Tactics
Targeting Adjacent Cells After a Hit
Prioritize the cells above, below, left, and right of a hit to finish finding the ship.
IntermediateCleaning Up After a Sinking
Once a ship is confirmed sunk, clear the area around it to simplify your next search.