Starting a new miniature wargame can seem daunting, but Cruel Seas makes the process accessible. A typical starter set will include everything you need to begin your maritime adventures. This usually consists of a range of ship models, a rule book, dice, ship data-cards, aircraft, and scenario booklets. Your first task will be to assemble and paint your vessels. This hobby aspect is a big part of the appeal of wargaming, allowing you to customize your fleet to your liking.

Cruel Seas operates on a turn-based system, with each player commanding a flotilla of vessels. The rules of the game are designed to create an authentic naval combat experience. Maneuvering is a key aspect, and factors like speed, turning radius, and visibility all play a part.
Combat involves everything from torpedoes to artillery, with mechanics that reflect the frantic nature of these sea skirmishes. Dice rolls resolve most actions, adding an element of chance that keeps the gameplay unpredictable and exciting. Players must think strategically, utilizing their vessels' strengths while exploiting their opponents' weaknesses to achieve victory.

Cruel Seas offers a diverse range of factions, each with its own fleet of ships, reflecting the forces active in World War II. These include the British Royal Navy, German Kriegsmarine, US Navy, Imperial Japanese Navy, Royal Italian Navy, and Soviet Navy. Each faction has unique strengths and weaknesses, and their vessels have distinctive abilities and stats. This diversity ensures a wide array of tactical options and promotes replayability.