The simularity in API patterns is because of the overxposure of light in guncam films. I doubt it'd look like that if we see it with our bare eyes.
However, considering the limits of PC resolution as compared to real life, some amount of exaggeration could be necessary for clear hit indications.
If there is anything that can be changed with the current hit sprites, it still has too long of a resident time on the FE. It needs to be more "spark & gone". A little bit smaller size with more high resolution graphics, and depicted much brighter than the current ivory-ish glob.. then it'd be pretty much OK.
The cannon hit effects leaves lot to be desired. We really need those 'explosive' impact effects.