The F-4E may only be an early game plane, but it's arguably the best in that category with its effective and versatile SPW selection. The additional skins are unabashed fan service, and if my streaming playthrough with my father is any indicator, it's a powerful boost in excitement for AC veterans.
The F-4E is highly competent in multiplayer too, since it has a rock-bottom cost that allows you to put any upgrade parts you like on it and still keep it low enough for cost-limited matches. Even in matches without a cap, other players tend to ignore you for higher value opponents, giving you the perfect opportunity to rack up points quickly while they're distracted.