The problem with these kinds of linear progressions is that there weren't any in reality. (...)
I'm am aware of that. However it is not looking for progression on design for design base.
What I'm trying to create is an evolution in the way of thinking.
My plan is simple, if labour intensive.
Start by creating a 1800 fleet.
4-10 first rate 90-100 gun three deck ships of the line.
20-80 second rate 60-76 gun two deck ships of the line.
Frigates and sloops, the work our way year after year.
Starting with the steam engine and designing new ship when various developments appear.
The current pathetic insistence on shoehorning modern warships into a century old system that didn't work in the first place is an excellent example.
Don't get me started.
If some fleet today would build a 8000t air defence warship and call it a Trireme, because it has three decks in the hull above the waterline I wouldn't bat an eye at that.