I'm not anti-PvP...but it holds no interest for me from a gaming perspective.
I probably haven't explained it well. What I'm trying to say is if you play on the PvE server, it's static so you miss out on the dynamic of port ownership.
I have visions of being pummelled to oblivion by random players floating around in first rate ships of the line as I try to master the sailing characteristics of my little barque/sloop...players in first rates blockading ports just to get that PvP fix...a bit like Eve at 33⅓ rpm.
I'm not going to pretend that doesn't happen, but it's like elite in that you can mitigate that risk to a reasonable level, by avoiding the daily PvP patrol zones (which act almost like a PP expansion zone in terms of drawing players to them) or simply not sitting in your factions homeport region but getting out a little into the world. Also it's quite rare to see first rate doomships outside of PvP hotspots, because of how valuable and awkward they are to build. And unlike elite, if you report these guys presence your own nation will generally sortie a task group to deal with them.
I loved the speedboats with sails rendition of warfare at sea offered by Assassin's Creed, Black Flag...but like I mentioned...speedboats with sails with little tactical or mechanical considerations besides the fun factor...but physically controlling the Jackdaw standing on that quarter deck...pretty awesome.
That's the only AC game I finished, so should show how much I agree with you.
I'm interested in Naval Action as an avid reader and fan of naval history and as a square rigger simulator...not as a contest.
Then like I say, you'll get something out of the PvE server... just IMO you're missing out on something that's a lot more fun, dynamic, challenging and rewarding.
