Hey everyone! I’ve recently started playing the Japanese gunboat line and I’m finding it really tough to get the hang of the Akizuki. I’ve read through a ton of advice but I still can’t seem to make her work effectively. She feels super sluggish, and I keep getting hit by torpedoes, even when I’m in smoke. I’ve tried taking control of capture points, but that usually ends with me dying to enemy torpedoes. I’ve also attempted to play a support role, but then I find myself hunted down by other destroyers. So far, I’ve played about ten battles, but I don’t feel impactful at all. I’m losing gunfights with other destroyers, which shouldn’t be the case, and I really want to improve. Just for some context, I typically play with the Gearing and Fletcher without any issues.
4 Answers
If you keep getting torpedoed, check your positioning. You shouldn’t be losing a lot of health to torpedoes as a DD. Try to maneuver when you expect torps and don’t just sit still. Also, engage only when you’re pretty sure of the enemy’s abilities. Some ships, like Kidd and Lightning, are really strong in gun duels, so you need to pick your battles wisely.
It sounds like you’re trying to play Akizuki a bit too aggressively. This ship doesn’t have great concealment or heals, so early on, just focus on spotting and isolating enemy DDs. Don’t contest caps unless you’re sure you can win—it’s better to keep that ship alive until the mid-game. By then, you can really capitalize on your superior firepower against weakened enemies. The key is to avoid early deaths while still contributing to your team before the chaos of late-game kicks in.
That makes sense, I think I’ve been getting too eager to engage. I’ll definitely try to play more cautiously!
Honestly, after just 10 games, your expectations might be a bit high. Akizuki is strong, but you need time to learn its strengths. Use island cover for protection and watch the mini-map closely for torpedo warnings. If you’re caught off guard by a torp strike, try to remember to turn into the incoming torpedoes—it can make a big difference!
Good point! I’ll definitely start experimenting with using cover more.
Akizuki can be tough in a direct gunfight against strong destroyers. It’s best to avoid early caps unless you’re sure you’re supported. Instead, use your agility to dodge torpedoes, and only go for gunfights when you’re in a favorable position. Also, don’t forget—you can switch between HE and AP shells based on your targets. That can really maximize your damage output!
Totally agree about the switch! I often forget to swap shells and it costs me during battles.
Definitely! I got hit hard by those two, and I didn’t realize how strong they were in a head-to-head.