Requesting information; US submarine classes | Forums

[Otto_Harms]

Quite a few to choose between, can I ask for a brief introduction into the various classes?

[Mescator]

Sure thing,

S Class Boats (S18, S21) are old WW1 Era "Sugar" Boats. They're slow, poorly armed and can't dive very deep. They do however come equipped with Mark 10 Torpedos in 4 forward tubes, which are significantly more reliable early war, if slightly less powerful than the mark 14 the newer boats use. They are however, surprisingly maneuverable underwater and are much loved by some of the SH community because of the challenge playing them brings.

Sargo, Salmon and Porpoise class submarines are much more modern classes. They have rear tubes as well as forward tubes and pack Mark 14 Torpedos, making them significantly more dangerous than the S-Boats once the reliability issues get sorted out. Additionally, their surface speed and endurance are much higher than Sugar Boats. Tube configuration is 4 Forward and 2/4 Rear depending on class.

The Gato was the backbone of the Submarine force. It featured the first torpedo arrangement which was standard for the rest of the war. 6 Tubes Forward, 4 Rear provided them with a amazing capacity for destruction. Overall, the Gato is excellent in most regards. It's surface speed, endurance and firepower were the benchmark for American submarines for the rest of the war.

Balao and Tench class submarines were grizzled heavy weights by the end of the war. Thick steel provided them with very deep diving ability and the continued use of 6/4 Tubes meant they were a dangerous aggressor against most targets.

If your just starting, play either a Sboat or a Salmon, Sargo or Porpoise though. Having barely any torpedo and not much diving depth teaches you good habits.