Tiger Tanks In War Thunder: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey War Thunder enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the world of Tiger Tanks? These iconic German heavy tanks were a force to be reckoned with during World War II, and they're just as thrilling to command in War Thunder. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Tiger Tanks in War Thunder: their history, their strengths, their weaknesses, and how to effectively use them on the battlefield. Whether you're a seasoned tanker or a newcomer, this article will equip you with the knowledge to dominate the game. So, buckle up, and let's get rolling!
A Brief History of the Tiger Tanks
Before we jump into the game, let's take a quick history lesson, shall we? The Tiger I was a German heavy tank that first saw action in 1942. It was a response to the powerful Soviet T-34 and KV-1 tanks. The Tiger I was designed with a thick armor (up to 120mm on the front) and a powerful 8.8 cm KwK 36 cannon, making it a formidable opponent. Its production ran from 1942 to 1944. The design prioritized firepower and protection, making it a difficult tank to destroy. Though heavy and somewhat slow, its impact on the battlefield was undeniable. Its fame has continued throughout the years, and even today, the Tiger I is one of the most recognizable tanks. This tank was made famous in many movies, video games and documentaries. However, the tank was also prone to mechanical failures due to its weight and complexity. It was also expensive to produce, but its ability to obliterate any opposing tank made the cost worth it.
Then came the Tiger II, also known as the King Tiger. This tank was an improvement over the Tiger I. The Tiger II was even more heavily armored. It had a sloped front glacis plate (the angled front of the tank) and a more powerful 8.8 cm KwK 43 cannon, capable of destroying any Allied tank. But despite its power, the Tiger II suffered from even more mechanical issues than the Tiger I. It was also very slow and consumed a lot of fuel. The Tiger II was also very expensive to produce and required a lot of resources. The Tiger II was produced from 1944 to 1945. It saw action in many battles during the end of the war, including the Battle of the Bulge, where its firepower could not turn the tide. Both the Tiger I and Tiger II represent pinnacle of German tank design during World War II, symbolizing their technological prowess and combat effectiveness.
The Importance of the Tiger Tanks in War Thunder
In War Thunder, the Tiger tanks are a staple of the German tank tech tree. They offer a unique gameplay experience, balancing firepower, armor, and mobility. Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of the Tiger tanks is essential for success in War Thunder. You'll learn how to position your tank, choose the right ammunition, and effectively engage the enemy. War Thunder's realistic battle environments, the Tiger tanks’ presence provides a valuable historical experience for players. Furthermore, the game's community appreciates these tanks, and there's a strong sense of nostalgia and admiration for these historic machines. The Tiger Tanks are not just vehicles in the game; they are symbols of historical significance that add a layer of depth to the gameplay.
Tiger I in War Thunder: Stats and Gameplay
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about the Tiger I in War Thunder. The Tiger I is usually found in the mid-tiers (around rank III), and it's a game-changer if you play it right.
Armor and Protection
The Tiger I boasts impressive armor for its tier, especially on the front. With up to 100mm of armor on the hull and 80mm on the turret, it can withstand a good beating. However, the sides and rear are more vulnerable, so always angle your armor and avoid exposing your sides to the enemy. This angle helps deflect incoming rounds, increasing your effective armor thickness. Remember, angling is key, and it will significantly improve your survivability in battle.
Firepower
The 8.8 cm KwK 36 cannon is a beast. It has excellent penetration, capable of taking down most tanks at its tier with ease. The gun also has a decent rate of fire, allowing you to quickly follow up shots. The gun's accuracy and the quality of the optics are also notable. Make sure to use the right ammunition for the job, switching between APHE (Armor Piercing High Explosive) for general use and APCR (Armor Piercing Composite Rigid) for tougher targets. The APHE is great for causing massive damage after penetrating, while APCR is better at penetrating heavily armored targets. Practice your shot placement to maximize your damage output.
Mobility
Compared to some tanks, the Tiger I is not exactly nimble. It's relatively slow and has a poor reverse speed. So you need to plan your movements carefully. Try to anticipate where the action will be and position yourself accordingly. Use cover to protect your flanks while you advance. Terrain awareness is critical; avoid open fields where you can be easily targeted. Good positioning is essential for success. Always try to find the best spots where you can utilize your strengths while minimizing your weaknesses.
Gameplay Tips for the Tiger I
- Angling: Angle your hull and turret to increase your effective armor thickness.
 - Cover: Use cover to protect your flanks and hull.
 - Ammunition: Choose the right ammunition for each situation.
 - Positioning: Anticipate the flow of battle and position yourself strategically.
 - Teamwork: Work with your team. Coordinate your attacks to take down enemy tanks effectively.
 
Tiger II in War Thunder: Stats and Gameplay
Now, let's talk about the Tiger II (King Tiger). The Tiger II is a formidable machine, but it comes with its own set of challenges. It's usually found at higher tiers (around rank IV) in the German tech tree.
Armor and Protection
The Tiger II has improved armor compared to the Tiger I. The sloped front glacis plate is its strongest point. The turret is also well-armored, but the