Start with a balanced foundation
Early survivability gives you more time to learn enemy movement and earn later upgrades. A balanced opening—enough damage to remove immediate threats plus enough mobility to avoid pressure—keeps more options open.
Let upgrades reinforce each other
Strong builds have a clear identity. Speed helps you control distance. Defense gives you more margin for close encounters. Firepower and cannon effects reduce the time enemies remain dangerous. Choose upgrades that support the way you are already steering and fighting.
Adapt when the waves change
A build that feels comfortable now may need a different answer when tougher ships arrive. Watch what ends each run: being surrounded suggests a positioning or mobility problem, while enemies staying alive too long may call for more offense.
Treat each attempt as useful information. Small changes to your upgrade priorities can turn the next voyage into your strongest one yet.