Quick answer
When a building or crew job is unavailable, check its Compass principle, Deed requirements, ship tier, and prerequisite production chain before rebuilding. Corsair Cove often unlocks capability through several linked systems rather than one obvious button.
Version and source notesUpdated 2026-09-05 · Current for this version
- Updated
- 2026-09-05
- Works with
- Current PC progression systems
- What this guide covers
- Dependency chart separates official system references from unclear UI reports
- Version notes
- Verify live tooltips after progression patches
- Update status
- Current for this version
Read the unlock trail
- Read the building tooltip and note the named prerequisite.
- Open the Compass and identify the principle connected to that prerequisite.
- Check the pinned Deed for its exact condition and progress.
- Confirm the required ship, crew job, resource, or event has already been unlocked.
- Reopen the building panel after the Deed or principle point is awarded.
Why a built building may still be unusable
Construction and operation are separate checks. A workshop can exist while lacking a specialist, input resource, worker access, or a completed event unlock. A higher-tier ship can therefore be ready in the harbour while its required crew job remains locked.
Use the production chains guide to confirm inputs and the progression roadmap to choose the next Deed instead of grinding a random event.
A practical progression table
| Symptom | Check first | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Building is greyed out | Compass principle or Deed | Pin the named Deed and follow its condition |
| Building exists but does nothing | Inputs, workers, output space | Trace the chain from deposit to consumer |
| Ship needs a specialist | Crew job unlock and principle | Complete the linked Deed or event |
| New camp feels under-supplied | Local warehouse and routes | Build a short local loop before expanding |
Avoid the “unlock everything” trap
Principle points are easier to use when you choose a near-term goal. If your next story step needs a ship, prioritize the principle and Deed that unlock that ship’s requirements. If your island is unstable, improve food, cohesion, and transport before chasing a distant upgrade.
Version note
The official FAQ and wiki explain the systems, while community reports show where the UI leaves the dependency chain unclear. Exact unlock conditions can change with patches, so treat this as a decision chart and verify the live tooltip for your save. If you cannot identify the blocker, use Find my fix.
Sources
- Corsair Cove Official Wiki — Buildings
- Corsair Cove Official Wiki — Pirates
- Steam community feedback on unclear unlocks
If the blocker is still unclear, use Find my fix to narrow the next step.