Best WW2 Heavy Tank In War Thunder A Detailed Comparison

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Heavy tanks of World War 2 vintage hold a special place in the hearts of War Thunder players. These behemoths, with their thick armor and powerful guns, offer a unique gameplay experience, allowing players to soak up damage and dish it out in equal measure. However, with a multitude of options available across different nations, choosing the best heavy tank can be a daunting task. This article will delve deep into the strengths and weaknesses of some of the most prominent WW2 heavy tanks in War Thunder, helping you make an informed decision about which one suits your playstyle.

Understanding the Criteria for “Best”

Before we dive into specific tanks, it's crucial to establish what we mean by “best.” In War Thunder, there isn't a single tank that reigns supreme in all situations. The effectiveness of a tank depends heavily on several factors:

  • Firepower: The ability to penetrate enemy armor and inflict damage is paramount. This encompasses gun caliber, shell type, penetration values, and reload speed.
  • Armor Protection: Thick armor can shrug off enemy fire, allowing you to survive longer on the battlefield. However, armor effectiveness is also influenced by angling and the types of ammunition being fired.
  • Mobility: While heavy tanks aren't known for their speed, a reasonable level of mobility is necessary to maneuver, flank, and react to threats.
  • Crew Survivability: A larger crew generally translates to greater resilience in the face of enemy fire. The layout of the crew compartments also plays a role.
  • Battle Rating (BR): The BR of a tank determines the tier of opponents it will face. A tank that performs well at a lower BR might struggle against higher-tier adversaries.
  • Playstyle: Ultimately, the “best” tank is the one that best complements your individual playstyle. Some players prefer a heavily armored brawler, while others favor a more mobile and versatile platform.

With these criteria in mind, let's examine some of the top contenders for the title of best WW2 heavy tank in War Thunder.

The Contenders: A Deep Dive

The German Powerhouses

Germany fielded some of the most iconic heavy tanks of World War 2, and their presence in War Thunder is equally formidable. The Tiger I and Tiger II (King Tiger) are perhaps the most well-known examples, and for good reason.

Tiger I (H1/E)

The Tiger I, specifically the H1 and E variants, is a staple of the German tech tree. Its 88mm KwK 36 gun is a potent weapon, capable of dispatching most opponents it faces at its battle rating. The Tiger I's armor, while not impenetrable, is sufficient to withstand a considerable amount of punishment, especially when angled correctly. Its mobility is decent for a heavy tank, allowing it to reposition and flank when necessary. The Tiger I's primary strength lies in its combination of firepower and survivability, making it a formidable opponent in both offensive and defensive roles. However, it does have weaknesses. The flat armor plates are vulnerable to flanking attacks, and the transmission can be a point of failure. The lower glacis plate is also a well-known weak spot.

In terms of playstyle, the Tiger I excels at medium to long-range engagements. It can effectively snipe enemies from a distance or hold defensive positions, using its gun and armor to maximum effect. Angling the armor is crucial to maximizing its effectiveness, as it can significantly increase the effective thickness. Players should be mindful of their flanks and avoid exposing their weaker sides to enemy fire. The Tiger I is a tank that rewards patience and tactical awareness.

Tiger II (H) (King Tiger)

The Tiger II, often referred to as the King Tiger, is a significant upgrade over the Tiger I. Its 88mm KwK 43 gun is even more powerful, capable of penetrating virtually any tank it encounters at its battle rating. The King Tiger's armor is also significantly improved, with a thick, sloped glacis plate that provides excellent protection against frontal attacks. However, the King Tiger is not without its drawbacks. Its size and weight make it less mobile than the Tiger I, and its reload speed is relatively slow. The turret cheeks are also a potential weak spot, although they are still quite thick. The lower glacis plate, while angled, is still a target for skilled opponents.

In terms of playstyle, the Tiger II is best suited for a more aggressive role. Its powerful gun and thick armor allow it to push forward and engage enemies head-on. However, players must be aware of their surroundings and avoid being flanked. The Tiger II's slow reload speed means that missed shots can be costly, so accuracy is paramount. Utilizing hull-down positions, where only the turret is exposed, can maximize the King Tiger's survivability. The Tiger II is a tank that demands a more aggressive and decisive approach.

The Soviet Behemoths

The Soviet Union also produced a series of formidable heavy tanks during World War 2, renowned for their ruggedness and firepower. The IS-2 and IS-2 (1944) are prime examples, embodying the Soviet design philosophy of prioritizing firepower and armor over finesse.

IS-2 & IS-2 (1944)

The IS-2 and IS-2 (1944) are heavy hitters, armed with a massive 122mm gun. This gun packs a serious punch, capable of one-shotting many opponents. The IS-2's armor is also quite thick, particularly the frontal armor, which is sloped to further enhance its effectiveness. However, the IS-2 has a notoriously long reload time, making each shot count. The gun depression is also limited, which can be a hindrance in certain terrain. The IS-2 (1944) variant features improved frontal armor, making it even more resilient to enemy fire.

In terms of playstyle, the IS-2 excels at close to medium-range engagements. Its powerful gun can quickly eliminate targets, but the long reload time necessitates a more deliberate approach. Players must carefully choose their targets and ensure that their shots hit. Hull-down positions are particularly effective for the IS-2, as they minimize its exposure to enemy fire. The IS-2's limited gun depression means that it can struggle in hilly terrain, so careful positioning is crucial. The IS-2 is a tank that rewards patience and a tactical mindset.

The American All-Rounder

While the United States primarily focused on medium tanks during World War 2, they did produce one notable heavy tank: the M26 Pershing. The M26 Pershing stands out as a versatile and well-balanced heavy tank, capable of holding its own against a variety of opponents.

M26 Pershing

The M26 Pershing is a well-rounded heavy tank, offering a good balance of firepower, armor, and mobility. Its 90mm gun is effective against most targets it faces, and its armor, while not as thick as some of its contemporaries, is sufficient to withstand a decent amount of punishment. The Pershing's mobility is also relatively good for a heavy tank, allowing it to reposition and flank when necessary. The M26 Pershing is a jack-of-all-trades, capable of performing well in a variety of roles.

In terms of playstyle, the M26 Pershing is a flexible tank that can adapt to different situations. It can effectively engage enemies at medium range, using its gun and mobility to its advantage. It can also hold defensive positions, using its armor to soak up damage. The M26 Pershing's versatility makes it a valuable asset in any team. However, it doesn't excel in any one area, so players must be adaptable and utilize its strengths to their fullest potential. The M26 Pershing is a tank that rewards a flexible and adaptable playstyle.

The Verdict: Which Tank Reigns Supreme?

So, which of these heavy tanks is the best? The answer, as you might expect, is that it depends. Each tank has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and playstyle.

  • If you prioritize raw firepower and aren't afraid of a long reload time, the IS-2 might be your tank of choice.
  • If you prefer a heavily armored brawler that can dish out punishment while soaking up damage, the Tiger II is a strong contender.
  • If you value a balance of firepower, armor, and mobility, the M26 Pershing offers a well-rounded package.
  • If you appreciate a good combination of firepower and survivability at a slightly lower battle rating, the Tiger I is an excellent option.

Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect heavy tank for you is to try them all out and see which one clicks with your playstyle. Each of these tanks offers a unique and rewarding gameplay experience, and mastering them can make you a force to be reckoned with on the War Thunder battlefield.

Repair Costs and Optimization

One crucial factor to consider when choosing a tank in War Thunder is the repair cost. High repair costs can quickly drain your Silver Lions, especially if you're frequently getting destroyed. The repair costs of the tanks discussed above can vary depending on the game mode (Arcade, Realistic, Simulator) and whether you have automatic repairs enabled. Generally, the Tiger II tends to have a higher repair cost than the Tiger I, while the IS-2's repair cost can fluctuate. The M26 Pershing often sits in a more moderate range. Optimizing your gameplay to minimize damage taken is key to managing repair costs. This includes angling your armor, using cover effectively, and avoiding unnecessary risks. Additionally, researching the “crew repair skill” can significantly reduce repair times and costs.

Final Thoughts

The world of WW2 heavy tanks in War Thunder is diverse and engaging. Each tank offers a unique set of strengths and weaknesses, catering to different playstyles and preferences. Whether you prefer the raw power of the IS-2, the heavily armored might of the Tiger II, the well-rounded capabilities of the M26 Pershing, or the balanced firepower and survivability of the Tiger I, there's a heavy tank out there for you. By understanding the nuances of each tank and adapting your playstyle accordingly, you can dominate the battlefield and experience the thrill of commanding these iconic war machines.