I have seen the anime and saw a lot of fan arts (I even saved some because I love the designs) but never really get to know the mechanics of the game and I think that answers the question in my mind of why it is so popular, man losing a unit must really feel bad but that is in itself a unique selling point that ordinary games wouldn't dare to try. Imagine Fate/ GO pulling that stunt, that's nightmare lol.
RE: 'Kantai Collection' vs. 'Azur Lane' - Video Game Review