Ready to shake things up? How about a new class of bot? This time it's a Lawman instead of a pirate. Have him randomly show up in 10% to 15% of all battles but always on the Defender's side. Provide him with a single craft comparable to the Jouann. The attacker still has the choice to retreat or continue the attack. The Lawman can be defeated, but like pirates, aggression goes up, if you meet again.

I think most players will agree that the advantage is always on the attackers side. This might help level the playing field. Or at least throw another wrinkle into the attackers planning strategy.

Just imagine... expecting to be wiped out, then out of the clear blue sky, appears your knight in shining armour to help you defend your castle.