Guide to (Rare) Materials Run

[CarribeanThunder]

Originally Posted by Crimson Rose

After you sink your fifth hunter, like clockwork, you get your "hat."

I already knew that one, haha. I just never could figure out what triggered Rank 3.

Originally Posted by Crimson Rose

Don't even have to sink the ship. Just the first hit will get you the appropriate rating, depending on your cargo situation. Just found that out two days ago.

Really? Last I remember, hitting the ship only started it at Rank 1, but then sinking it gives you the actual rank. And after testing it just now on Test, I struck a Corsair after getting 1 Rare Materials, 2 Ship Materials, 6 Loot Pouches and 7 Royal Chests. I only got Rank 1. Once I brought the Corsair down, though, I went right up to Rank 3, completely skipping Rank 2. This was all in a single open fire broadside from my Storm Chaser 5 War Brig.

Originally Posted by Crimson Rose

One thing that's made me wonder: Does crew status affect the amount of cargo you get? In particular, does it affect the amount of materials? Should I be getting a crew to make sure I get more gold and/or mats?

I wouldn't think so. In my experiences it doesn't matter, you get lucky or you don't. Though maybe it does.