Abandon Ship is a strategy RPG where players command Age of Sail ships in a fantasy world. The game presents a vast world filled with unique islands and diverse biomes, such as the Haunted Seas and Spider Islands, each presenting distinct environmental challenges. Players engage in tactical combat against enemy ships, fortifications, and sea monsters, with environmental factors like tidal waves and volcanic bombardments significantly influencing battles. The game's distinct art style is inspired by classic naval oil paintings.A key mechanic in Abandon Ship is its permanent death system; while ships can be destroyed, the captain's survival offers a chance to continue the game through lifeboats or even being stranded. Player decisions have consequences, impacting the world and its inhabitants, leading to alliances or vengeance. The game includes multiple story campaigns, including a main quest to overthrow a cult and a freeplay mode focused on rebuilding a legacy, alongside shorter tales.