About

* An upgraded version of the fleet carrier Shokaku, introduced in the September 25, 2015 update. Specifically, it is the form Shokaku Kai Ni takes after a convert-remodeling at Level 88. Note that the remodel requires development materials in addition to the usual ammo and steel. Visually, her flight deck has turned jet black, and her trademark red headband has changed to a slightly yellowish vermilion with a single white line added to the center. Her defense is bolstered by an armored deck and bulges, changing her ship type from a standard fleet carrier to an armored aircraft carrier. Additionally, the setting includes reinforced decks to launch heavy aircraft and improved heat resistance to facilitate the use of jet aircraft. While armoring a deck on an actual ship would raise the center of gravity and reduce stability, the bulges likely serve as counterweights. In terms of game performance, her total aircraft capacity has decreased from the 93 planes (27+27+27+12) of Kai Ni to 76 planes (34+21+12+9), which is only one more than her unremodeled state. However, with a firepower cap of 70—the highest among all carriers—her offensive power is by no means low. While the lower capacity is a disadvantage for securing air superiority, her first slot holds 34 planes; since this slot has the highest critical modifier, it synergizes perfectly with the Aircraft Proficiency system, giving her high suitability for aerial combat specialized in single-strike power. Furthermore, while she cannot attack land-based installations, equipping the high-performance fighter-bomber Kikka Kai can somewhat compensate for anti-air disadvantages. Her stability in firepower is also noteworthy, thanks to the durability of an armored carrier and the ability to launch planes even when moderately damaged. Whether to choose the Kai Ni for pure capacity or the Kai Ni Ko for breakthrough power and durability is a matter of the Admiral's preference.