World War II naval warfare takes a major leap forward as Task Force Admiral – Vol.1: American Carrier Battles launches in Early Access on Steam. Developed by Drydock Dreams Games and published by MicroProse, the simulation-focused strategy title delivers one of the most detailed and immersive portrayals of aircraft carrier warfare ever created.
Set during the critical opening year of the Pacific War, the game puts players in command of U.S. Navy carrier task forces in 1942, recreating the tension, uncertainty, and high-stakes decision-making that defined early carrier battles.
A New Standard for WWII Carrier Warfare
Unlike traditional naval strategy games, Task Force Admiral – Vol.1: American Carrier Battles emphasizes realism and command friction. Players must manage reconnaissance, launch and recover air groups, interpret incomplete intelligence, and issue orders under delayed communications — all while battles unfold in real time.
The game features fully rendered 3D naval battles, authentic aircraft and warships, historically accurate ballistics, and advanced damage modeling. Multiple command perspectives allow players to shift seamlessly from a detailed flag-plot view to a wide strategic overview, blending classic naval wargaming with modern simulation technology.
Early Access Launch Content: Historic Battles Recreated
At launch, Early Access includes two of the most iconic carrier engagements of World War II, each playable in both historical and alternate “what-if” variants.
Available at Early Access Launch
- Battle of the Coral Sea – May 8, 1942 (Scenario & Variant)
- Battle of Midway – June 4, 1942 (Scenario & Variant)
- Coral Sea and Midway Battle Generator Sets
- Playable fighter aircraft
- Save game functionality
- TacView-style battle replay system
These scenarios allow players to either relive history as it unfolded or experiment with alternate outcomes shaped by different tactical decisions.
Major Updates Planned Within the First Month
Development will continue at a rapid pace throughout Early Access. Within the first month, players can expect a significant expansion of content and historical depth, including:
- New Coral Sea and Midway scenario variants
- Additional aircraft carriers, including USS Saratoga, IJN Ryūjō, and IJN Jun’yō
- A complete Japanese Order of Battle for Midway
- A 1940 “Early War” Midway variant
These updates will broaden fleet composition, introduce new strategic possibilities, and further refine the realism of the simulation. A full development roadmap is available on the game’s Steam page.
The Foundation of a Living WWII Simulation Series
Early Access represents only the beginning for Task Force Admiral. The developers describe Vol.1 as the foundation of a larger series dedicated to World War II carrier warfare. Future updates will expand scenarios, factions, features, and systems, guided closely by community feedback and ongoing historical research.
For fans of deep simulations, naval history, and uncompromising strategy, Task Force Admiral – Vol.1: American Carrier Battles aims to become a definitive experience in the genre.
Where to Play
Task Force Admiral – Vol.1: American Carrier Battles is available now in Early Access on Steam. Players can step into command today and help shape the future of this next-generation WWII carrier warfare simulation.
