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I am working on possible mods for CHS. At the moment this involves a review of aircraft, some of which may be removed. For example, do we need pre WWII aircraft (e.g. B4Y & D1A)? Do we need both A6M3 and A6M3? Do we need both Ki-48I and Ki-48II? [They have a 100 kg difference in bomb load, the engines are 30 hp more powerful, the performance is not significantly changed, and the defensive armament was originally unchanged. I would be willing to let the II represent both models if it would appease JFBs. But since many begin the game and all are Is, and smart players won't keep building them, the I would be more correct IMHO. We might do it both ways - we are considering a "enhansed Red" variant.]

Planes that might be added could include M6A1 (for which I request art if available) - so the sub carriers have a proper bomber - E16A1 and E15K1 - specialist floatplanes for sub and cruiser recon - Q1W1 - specialist ASW plane - H8K2-L transport variant - H9A - a sort of Japanese PBY that is colorless but a smart buy in terms of cost/effectiveness - and either Ka-1 or Ki-76 - which means IJA - not a typo ARMY carriers can be outfitted with ASW planes they actually had. [Is there any art for the Fiesler Storch AKA Ki-76?]

Another idea is to modify the G5N (really G5N2). This plane is based on a unique prototype - the original DC-4. Renamed DC-4E and exported to DNKKK (All Japan Airlines), it was secretly handed over to Nakajima to take apart for study, and used as the basis for a bomber design. This failed, but the plane was converted to a transport which has some value in the long reaches of the Pacific. The 4 survivors (5 were built) all ended up in freight service. So instead of having it in the game as a bomber - which it is apparently rather falsely effective as - have it as a transport instead? This matters to smart players - interior lines and air transport are keys to victory.

I think the Ki-59 might be changed in favor of the Ki-34. There are only 3 Ki-59 (real history) when the war begins, but hundreds of Ki-34 - which you also see as L1N1.

I think we might see the L2D2, Ki-59 and Ki-57II/MC-20/MC-21 (all three varaitions of the Ki-21 bomber) as DNKKK airliners. DNKKK was para military, and it operated mostly under JAAF control (but H6K2-L flying boats under JNAF control) throughout the war - and a few months after the war under US control.

Not all these ideas can be implemented. Comments are welcome because we wish to consider what is liked or not by those interested in CHS.

Sid

-Delete the B4Y and D1A. Not sure about the A6M3a, as it has a longer range. Maybe create two versions for the Judy, althought it´s hard to simulate the setbacks of early models (unreliable engine and plane structurally unfit to dive bombing). Maybe create two versions for the Ki-61 (Ki-61 I and Ki-61 II). Also consider the J2M5 (faster than then J2M3). The D3A2 is a possibility for shorter scenarios. I would delete the A6M5b. The Ki-83 is a must. If you want to include heavy IJN bombers, I would choose the G8N Rita and not the G5N Liz, whose performance was considered poor by the Japanese Navy. The H8K2-L is definitely a good idea. Maybe the Ki-74 Patsy, a long range bomber/recon, with limited production.

Maybe create two versions for the Ki-61 (Ki-61 I and Ki-61 II).

There ARE two Ki-61s in CHS - I and II - just as you like. And there should be. I would like two of many planes - but not enough slots. D4Y is D4Y2 I am sure.

If you want to include heavy IJN bombers, I would choose the G8N Rita and not the G5N Liz, whose performance was considered poor by the Japanese Navy.

You are correct - G5N was rejected by BOTH IJA and IJN. [With no less than four different engine combinations considered and three tested]. G5N is too good in CHS apparently - it is not that good. It has two great advantages however: it is available at the start and it is a great transport. G8N is not available until late in the war. And its payload is only 4 tons. But it is a great plane and I wish to add it.

Another option - Japan bought a licence for the German Condor. Events prevented the purchased tooling and prototypes reaching Japan - but it might have been arranged. Anyone interested?