Hiei, a Kongou-class fast battleship originally launched as a battlecruiser, underwent extensive remodels to bolster her combat prowess. Her design incorporates a prototype superstructure mast akin to the Yamato-class, reflecting her historical role as a technological testbed and symbolizing her adaptability. Central to her persona is a fervent admiration for her sister Kongou, driving her to pursue self-improvement through relentless training while occasionally showcasing a humorous clumsiness—evident in her comical insistence on staying vigilant during duties or her infamous culinary misadventures with "Hiei Curry."
Her remodels—Kai, Kai Ni, and Kai Ni C—progressively enhance firepower, armor, and evasion, with Kai Ni C introducing torpedo armaments and equipment synergies like 35.6cm gun and radar bonuses. In battle, she spearheads specialized tactics such as the "Night Assault," requiring flagship positioning and coordination with fellow Kongou-class vessels to maximize strategic teamwork.
Rooted in history, her service spans pivotal WWII engagements like Pearl Harbor, Midway, and the Guadalcanal campaign, where she met her end. In-game dialogue echoes these events, referencing battles like the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal and her experimental contributions to Yamato-class advancements.
Visually, her green plaid skirt and initial spider-like rigging evolve into sleeker, ship-based designs post-remodel. Quotes blend earnest resolve with lighthearted loyalty to Kongou, merging historical homage with character-driven quirks.