ShipShaper: Falconeer Chronicles allows you to export custom-built vessels directly into Tomas Sala's companion game, Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles. The process functions entirely through the Steam Workshop interface, enabling your custom hulls and historical or fantasy builds to replace standard fleet units in Bulwark's world.
How to Export Ships from ShipShaper to Bulwark
The export workflow connects ShipShaper directly to the Steam Workshop for Bulwark. You do not need to manually copy or relocate model files in your operating system directories.
- Open the ShipShaper in-game menu while working on or viewing your completed ship design.
- Select the Export to Bulwark option from the menu.
- Choose the specific ship archetype in Bulwark that you wish your new custom design to replace.
- Allow the game to package the ship as a Steam Workshop item. The Steam overlay will automatically open to the newly created Workshop item page.
- Click Subscribe on the Workshop item page within the Steam overlay.
- Launch Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles. The game will automatically load your subscribed Workshop asset into your game session.
Bulwark Export Requirements and Demo Limitations
The transfer pipeline between both games depends on Steam Workshop connectivity. Because Steam does not permit demo versions to publish to or interact with the Workshop system of a separate primary application, the ShipShaper standalone demo cannot complete this export process.
To use the Bulwark export pipeline, you must own the full Early Access version of ShipShaper: Falconeer Chronicles as well as Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles on Steam. Developer patch notes also highlight that the scaling of certain components, such as mast widths and hull dimensions, has been updated in beta patches to ensure exported vessels align visually with Bulwark's existing art style and asset scales.
What Exported Ships Do in Bulwark
Once imported into Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles, custom ships take on the operational roles of the vessels they replaced. Rather than remaining static 3D models, they function within Bulwark's gameplay systems:
- Fleet deployment across the ocean of the Ursee.
- Participation in faction conquest, combat engagements, and territory defense.
- Operation within trade routes and resource economy systems.
- Active sailing and navigation across the open waters.
Comparison of ShipShaper Export Formats
ShipShaper supports multiple export avenues depending on whether you plan to use the ships within developer Tomas Sala's game ecosystem or in external design projects.
| Export Method | Target Platform | Primary Use Case | License and Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Bulwark Export | Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles | In-game fleet conquest, trade, and sailing | Requires ownership of both games on Steam |
| FBX File Export | 3D Modeling Software / Game Engines | External game development, modding, animation | Free commercial license included |
| STL File Export | 3D Slicing Software / 3D Printers | Physical scale model fabrication, tabletop gaming | Free commercial license included |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy Bulwark to sail my creations?
No. While the original demo lacked sailing controls, the Early Access release of ShipShaper includes a native sailing mode directly within the sandbox. Exporting to Bulwark is only required if you want your ship to participate in Bulwark's conquest, economy, and fleet systems.
Can you export ships from the free ShipShaper demo to Bulwark?
No. The developer confirmed that Steam Demos cannot interact with the Workshop backend of the full game. You must use the Early Access version of ShipShaper to upload and subscribe to Bulwark fleet replacements.
Do I need to manually move 3D files to a Bulwark folder?
No. The transfer process is managed through the in-game export menu, which publishes the design to the Steam Workshop. Subscribing to the item allows Bulwark to download and incorporate the ship automatically.
Can exported 3D files be used in other commercial projects?
Yes. Outside of the Bulwark pipeline, ShipShaper provides raw FBX and STL file exports that come with a free commercial license. Players can utilize their exported models for 3D printing, tabletop miniatures, modding, or indie game development.
