Yesterday I got the Tiger 1 finally. Currently its upgraded to improved tracks, second engine, and the short 88mm gun. In its current state its a hard tank to play. Its slower then the vk3601 and the short 88 gun is no better. It does have more HPs though. The problem is that its often thrown in with tier 9 and 10 tanks. The short 88 doesnt do much damage to them if any and the armor doesnt stand up to the guns of the larger tanks. Also to frustrate things is that the tank is prone to massive module damage. The gun is often damaged and fires are common. I can see why people often complain about the Tiger tank. Right now it reminds me of the IS tank which I didn't like and sold off once I got the IS3. So far this tiger is more like a neutered house cat. I'm told once I get the better turret and the long 88mm gun things get much better so we'll see. I'll with hold final judgment till then.
Tiger is borderline unplayable without the long 88 and even then the damage sucks vs T7+. I love my fully upgraded Tiger though, even with the shortfalls. It's all about sniping and supporting the other heavies, alone you are meat and will get picked apart by T5/6 because they will always penetrate you and often do module damage.