Tank Commanders,
Born in France. Descended from Americans. Fought in the Middle East.
If you just thought of a soldier from the French Foreign Legion, think again. These facts describe the M4A1 Revalorisé, the new Tier VIII premium medium tank. This vehicle was developed as part of a modernisation program for the M4 Sherman tanks of the French army. The result of the program was the Super Sherman — a combat-proven battlefield legend that remained relevant until the early 1990s.
This article will provide a glimpse into this rookie's place in World of Tanks.
The M4A1 Revalorisé can devastate enemy formations within fighting distance. Capable of dealing 390 points of alpha damage per shot, this vehicle’s main gun is highly competitive within its tier. Out of the Tier VIII medium tanks, only the Chinese T-34-2 and T-34-3 cause more damage per shot. In fact, the vehicle can be compared to any Tier VIII heavy tank and most Tier IX vehicles.
The tank has standard damage per minute for a Tier VIII medium tank (around 1,830 to be specific), but the Gun Rammer will increase it to 2,000, and the Improved Ventilation will further increase damage per minute.
The M4A1 Revalorisé’s advantage in firepower would be insignificant, if not for its high penetration (200 mm for standard rounds and 250 mm for Premium rounds), which is one of the highest rates amongst Tier VIII medium tanks. Its high penetration and high alpha damage put the “Super” in “Super Sherman”. Although it may not seem that way at first glance, this vehicle can bore gaping holes in vehicles of the same tier and even threaten vehicles of higher tiers
The M4A1 Revalorisé has a view range of 390 meters, which greatly improves the likelihood of spotting enemies before they spot you.
Its turret armour of 63 mm and hull armour of 50 mm are unlikely to protect the tank well from enemy fire. Instead, trust in its mobility, and use it to avoid enemy fire. If you get stuck, pray for good luck and hope for deflection. The absence of thick armour is in slightly compensated for by a good pool of hitpoints (1,400 HP).
The M4A1 Revalorisé is best suited to support roles. Players should make full use of the characteristics of this vehicle’s main gun and excellent view range to minimise close-range confrontations with opponents. Its relatively thin armour does not inspire confidence in its ability to take fire, so stick to your allies and be a good bruiser instead. Pop out of cover, take shots at the enemy, then hide and wait for another opportunity. This French tank is perfect for suddenly causing catastrophic damage to enemies from long and medium range.
The Super Sherman generally performs well against most Tier IX vehicles and vehicles of lower tiers. The only exceptions are heavily armoured vehicles such as the ST-1 or T95, which can only be penetrated by APCR shells.
As far as possible, you should use terrain features such as rocks and to hide the high profile of the French tank; if worse comes to worst, hide behind your allies who have heavier armour. There is no shame in hiding. Some tanks are simply designed for this kind of combat. The longer you survive, the more damage you will deal. Your survival will be your best contribution to your team.
Lastly, you should only resort to close-range fighting if you have no other options. The risk of taking heavy damage and going up in flames is too high to justify using such manoeuvres on a regular basis.
Fighting in the M4A1 Revalorisé will be an enjoyable experience for any player who prefers fighting from standoff range. It is a tough fighter with a proven combat record, and offers multiple styles of play.
Diligently support your allies, and pave the way to victory with the carcasses of your enemies’ vehicles!
Roll out!