Europa Universalis IV

 PC
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1463 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,250 out of 1463
  2. Mixed: 115 out of 1463
  3. Negative: 98 out of 1463

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  1. Tmonahan
    May 5, 2017
    10
    Best strategy game that I have played so far. Good replay value, and addictive gameplay. I strongly recommend to all strategy fans.

    The user reviews on steam are low due to DLC, but I do not own any and its still fun.
  2. elegioneer
    May 18, 2017
    3
    This game is the best strategy I ever played, but the problem is in Paradox: the simply broke the game in a $*%#ton of DLCs which cost half of a game itself.
  3. rowt
    Jun 16, 2017
    1
    4 years ago (when I bought it) this game was 100% worth it, kind of bland at some points and a little buggy but still lots of fun. Today, at the current prices, i can't justify dumping this amount of money on it (+DLCs, which the game feels bland and outright broken at parts without). It costs about the same as an AAA title from the past 2 years and it's just not in line with them, sorry4 years ago (when I bought it) this game was 100% worth it, kind of bland at some points and a little buggy but still lots of fun. Today, at the current prices, i can't justify dumping this amount of money on it (+DLCs, which the game feels bland and outright broken at parts without). It costs about the same as an AAA title from the past 2 years and it's just not in line with them, sorry Paradox but I'm not sorry… Expand
  4. Imperius147
    Aug 22, 2019
    7
    Pro+
    - best grand strategy
    - alternative world history... transforming my country to the World Empire

    Cons-
    - tons DLC
    - DLC politics
    - expensive DLC
  5. rpundurs
    Mar 6, 2014
    3
    I've never experienced a game like it in its attention to historical detail. I've likewise never experienced a game like it in how little fun it is to play.

    Paradox has produced a game that will entice the student of history in you, but will likely bore the rest of you. To begin with, EU4's presentation is nothing if not opaque. This time they've made more of an effort to document the    I've never experienced a game like it in its attention to historical detail. I've likewise never experienced a game like it in how little fun it is to play.

    Paradox has produced a game that will entice the student of history in you, but will likely bore the rest of you. To begin with, EU4's presentation is nothing if not opaque. This time they've made more of an effort to document the mechanisms of play in tutorials (and a fifty-page manual), but these efforts are still grossly insufficient to meet the punishing learning curve. Without constant reference to the wiki or official forums, a new player will be hopelessly lost. Despite what Paradox grognards seem to believe, this is not a positive feature.

    Ultimately, should you invest the 10+ hours needed to arm yourself with the basic understanding needed to play at all, you will be left with an intensely hollow experience. In the long run, it can be a joy to see your plans come to fruition, but in the interim, you will be left with a lot of clock-watching and empty busywork as the game continues to bombard you with trivial pop-ups for mundane tasks that, irritatingly, cannot be left on autopilot (the Curia control system is most egregious in this regard). The sheer volume of flags, however, belie their emptiness - there's very little fun to be had in maintaining your empire while waiting for your next opportunity to strike.

    For all the Europa Universalis series has been billed as part of the military strategy genre, the warfare is incredibly shallow. There are virtually no tactics involved in prosecuting a war; in some cases terrain may aid a defender, but neither logistics nor heroics are any match for economics in EU's world. Ultimately, this is a game of diplomacy - of decades-long plans to inveigle certain nations into attacking you only to be crushed, of forming royal marriages for the sake of later usurping that nation's throne, of excising provinces from a rival empire over and over again until it is small enough to be vassalized. That description gives the game an air of intrigue and mystery, but make no mistake: the game has all the mystique (and presentation) of an Excel spreadsheet.

    The actual mechanics of play are deceptively simplistic - success in this game relies on diplomatic strategy, but shaping a good strategy relies on an intense, almost professional understanding of the game's unexplained and often invisible logic. That's not even bringing the unfair and unpredictable nature of random events (such as the infamous comet) into the discussion. Ultimately, the best strategies are those that play to the AI's weaknesses and the idiosyncracies of the game mechanics. Though carrying out your strategy requires nothing more strenuous than navigation through a few menus, it is a long process of trial and error to determine which buttons to push and when, and the best methods are often counter-intuitive (if not totally illogical). For instance, the Overextension mechanics restrict the number of provinces you can hope to gain in war to such an extent that the only way to expand with any speed is by integrating vassals and junior partners - and God help you if you attempt to make use of those game mechanics without several hours of wiki-crawling and a few Paradox forum threads.

    The Metacritic score for this game is extremely misleading: despite Paradox's obvious attempt to reach out to new players with polished graphics and tutorials, Europa Universalis IV is not a game that anyone outside its niche will enjoy. Paradox's grand plan for its strategy game lines is essentially to sell slight variations on the same game over and over again to a hard core of devoted fans. Those who enjoy this game are those who do not flinch at the unforgiving, opaque, tedious, and frustrating nature of the experience. For players who are not willing to spend 100+ hours clicking flags, who don't mind watching dozens of hours of work go up in smoke after a couple of random events pop, or who have no objections to constantly alt-tabbing to outside information resources, this game must be Heaven. For the rest of us, it's reminiscent of someplace altogether different.    … Expand
  6. AtlasOrion
    Nov 22, 2013
    4
    I have to agree with the posters that say the text is far too small, and really the whole UI is way to small. It's like paradox is trying to show off as much of their map as possible, but it's really unspectacular anyway. Horrible, tiny, little icons spread all the way around the map, things should be centralized to one side, or two at most.

    This is a really slow game, very hard to    I have to agree with the posters that say the text is far too small, and really the whole UI is way to small. It's like paradox is trying to show off as much of their map as possible, but it's really unspectacular anyway. Horrible, tiny, little icons spread all the way around the map, things should be centralized to one side, or two at most.

    This is a really slow game, very hard to get into unlike other games where you can hop right in, pick it up more or less right away, and only have to learn about or research a few alien principals or gameplay mechanics. I'm sure it's satisfying for those that enjoy it, but it's DEFINITELY not created in a way that will appeal to a wider spectrum of gamers and gaming styles.

    Bottom line: both the game and the gameplay need to be a lot more inviting and user friendly.    … Expand
  7. SenshudoTV
    Sep 2, 2013
    9
    Not only does Paradox Interactive have a winner in Europa Universalis IV, it is easily the best strategy game I have ever played on the computer. The high ratings this game is garnering in reviews are justified. Though having some minor changes to the mechanics, such as over extension, which drive a player crazy, overall, it is a game I plan to play over and over again. I look forward toNot only does Paradox Interactive have a winner in Europa Universalis IV, it is easily the best strategy game I have ever played on the computer. The high ratings this game is garnering in reviews are justified. Though having some minor changes to the mechanics, such as over extension, which drive a player crazy, overall, it is a game I plan to play over and over again. I look forward to future DLC, hoping to see both China and Japan specific events, as well as events for the Holy Roman Empire, Russia, and maybe more Native American events in the future.… Expand
  8. calo
    Dec 27, 2013
    4
    I love Paradox, and Europa, Crusader Kings etc. However, this felt like a total disgrace to the series.
    It is awkward to begin with and yet it also manages to dump itself down considerably. But do not fear...
    We get coalitions! Which just doesn't work. I would be happy if neighbour states in fear of you formed these, but Ohhh no! It doesn't work by fear it doesn't work by how much    I love Paradox, and Europa, Crusader Kings etc. However, this felt like a total disgrace to the series.
    It is awkward to begin with and yet it also manages to dump itself down considerably. But do not fear...

    We get coalitions!
    Which just doesn't work. I would be happy if neighbour states in fear of you formed these, but Ohhh no! It doesn't work by fear it doesn't work by how much you want to war with them either.
    It works by "over extension" ie. if you have too many uncored provinces.
    What?
    Yes! Totally understandable why say France, with no colonies is mad at me Britain, in having too many uncored colonies.. Ofcourse! This totally effects them.

    Don't worry though we still have a Austria-dominant HRE which is always formed.
    And don't worry! France always acquires parts of Spain, and Spain, Portugal.
    And don't worry! We get an over-powered Denmark who can quite easily form Scandinavia.

    Culture change is super easy now too, and no matter what, your nation will always end up technologically in-advanced.

    No new provinces are introduced as far as I can tell and even better we are limited to having so many relations!

    The only good part is the CK2 EU4 converter, everything else is the exact same.
    A waste of money. If you want this game: Buy Europa Universalis III    … Expand
  9. Genesis_Shadow
    Aug 14, 2013
    9
    I would likely give EU4 an 8.5, however as no half scores are possible, I decided to round it up on account of the fact that I couldn't really think of a major problem that couldn't be fixed. One thing I will say is; this game is not for the faint of heart. Losing is almost always a very real possibility and the AI is better at dragging you back down that it was in previous iterations whenI would likely give EU4 an 8.5, however as no half scores are possible, I decided to round it up on account of the fact that I couldn't really think of a major problem that couldn't be fixed. One thing I will say is; this game is not for the faint of heart. Losing is almost always a very real possibility and the AI is better at dragging you back down that it was in previous iterations when you became too power.

    It's also a little more new-player friendly than EU3 so far as I can tell, and it is a little easier to manipulate the AI than in just about every other Paradox Title ever (which is a good thing). All in all, if you're a fan of Paradox titles, or Grand Strategy in general, definitely worth checking this game out. There are many hours of enjoyment to be had, even for returning EU3 customers.    … Expand
  10. Mynameispingu
    Aug 25, 2013
    6
    If you liked EUIII you're going to like EUIV.
    However on the contrary the game's been out for a week and there's already DLC, which is slightly disgusting in my eyes.
  11. Daisai
    Aug 23, 2014
    3
    Although this game is not as bad designed as HoI it still is very bugged and very poorly designed.
    There are so many key bugs in this game that are causing you to lose a battle and for a game that was released in 2013 you would expect a more finished product by now.
    Ones you play and therefor also test this product a little further ( which the developers did not do ) you come across    Although this game is not as bad designed as HoI it still is very bugged and very poorly designed.
    There are so many key bugs in this game that are causing you to lose a battle and for a game that was released in 2013 you would expect a more finished product by now.

    Ones you play and therefor also test this product a little further ( which the developers did not do ) you come across some game breaking bugs.
    Moral values not working and manpower simply disappearing when a army is to big ( with the thousands a tick and without the message ).

    Those kind of bugs should have been fixed long before the game is even released, however this developer is more busy releasing dlc for this game and not fixing these bugs.

    Thats why this game gets a 3, the gameplay is poor and the fact that they give poor support on their product makes it so that they earn this score.    … Expand
  12. TolHydra
    Sep 6, 2013
    9
    Bloody brilliant, waiting the amazing amount of improvement Ck2 received for the past year for this game too, In it's current state, fun and content full, i've spent just 62 hours to a single conversion save/mod

    Needs optimization for slower cpu's (my intel dual core 2.67 ghz can't keep up well)
    Needs polishing on some of the mechanics
    Needs polishing on Japan and the catholic rebellions
  13. masc
    Aug 19, 2013
    8
    Europa Universalis IV is much better than older iterations especially when it comes to how stable this game runs. What is holding me back from giving it a 9 is that still some things are not easy or simply not transparent enough to understand so one needs to be willing to spend some time outside the game to learn the game because the in-game tutorials and help system are not helpfulEuropa Universalis IV is much better than older iterations especially when it comes to how stable this game runs. What is holding me back from giving it a 9 is that still some things are not easy or simply not transparent enough to understand so one needs to be willing to spend some time outside the game to learn the game because the in-game tutorials and help system are not helpful enough.

    Overall I like the game very much and would recommend it to everyone who is willing to spend some time to learn the game. What helped me a lot was a tutorial from quill18: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGH-Sc1EfdI    … Expand
  14. shixiang722
    Aug 21, 2013
    10
    EU4 is a great improvement over the previous games,with respect to the its predecessor EU3,the game-play and balance has greatly improved. So, it will make CIV5 seem like child's game. In this game,
    choose a different country, you can have a nice and different game experience.
  15. axelstep
    Aug 16, 2013
    10
    Positively the best grand strategy game I've ever played. Unlike any previous paradox games, EU4 focuses on strategic decision maker. Sure in CK2 and Eu3 you made decisions, but in EU4, there is usually more than one right answer to every decision! In EU3, there was usually one correct answer, in EU4, there are multiple, and it truly adds skill to the game. Additionally, the scope of thePositively the best grand strategy game I've ever played. Unlike any previous paradox games, EU4 focuses on strategic decision maker. Sure in CK2 and Eu3 you made decisions, but in EU4, there is usually more than one right answer to every decision! In EU3, there was usually one correct answer, in EU4, there are multiple, and it truly adds skill to the game. Additionally, the scope of the game is amazing. The game is not needlessly complicated, and it's a blast!… Expand
  16. totofissime
    Aug 20, 2013
    9
    Awesome game. The best gae of Paradox. You can play either nation in the world with new awesome gameplay mecanics. Thak you paradox for this game.

    Europa Universalis IV is the game you graduate to when you’re tired of Civilization." Edg
  17. Lokomoko99764
    Sep 4, 2013
    8
    By all means one of Paradox Development Studio's better games (Although I like them all really). They've made much-needed improvements in comparison to EU3 in most areas, and although there is some controversy over the monarch point system and to a lesser extent trade, it's definitely worth the money. The visuals and season system is one thing in particular that is quite nice which IBy all means one of Paradox Development Studio's better games (Although I like them all really). They've made much-needed improvements in comparison to EU3 in most areas, and although there is some controversy over the monarch point system and to a lesser extent trade, it's definitely worth the money. The visuals and season system is one thing in particular that is quite nice which I wasn't expecting to enjoy as much as I did. I've yet to get the full enjoyment out of it after many hours.… Expand
  18. ManRammer
    Sep 8, 2013
    10
    Europa Universalis. Welcome back to my arms. Hold me. Don't ever let me go. The times we've had: Azteks vs Spain, Serbia and Bosnia vs the Ottomans. Japan vs French Colonials in Australia. My first explorer fleet sinking in the Pacific.

    The system this game uses is very deep, feels very authentic and realistic. You just can't "zerg" the world and expect to not crumble to pieces whilst    Europa Universalis. Welcome back to my arms. Hold me. Don't ever let me go. The times we've had: Azteks vs Spain, Serbia and Bosnia vs the Ottomans. Japan vs French Colonials in Australia. My first explorer fleet sinking in the Pacific.

    The system this game uses is very deep, feels very authentic and realistic. You just can't "zerg" the world and expect to not crumble to pieces whilst trying to hold it all together. The game really rewards the sly player, the bold player and punishes those with no patience.

    And while being a very deep game, the whole menu system really is easy to navigate and not at all hard to understand. Give it an hour and all will be understood. Maybe two. And then the game will suck you in. Even the most mundane country suddenly start to feel interesting, you find enemies and friends. And after that, you notice the clock is 5 in the morning and you have work.

    Damnit.

    But worth it.

    Over and out, guys    … Expand
  19. Noxious
    Aug 17, 2013
    10
    Paradox managed to get into the fourth installment of a game/series and make it better than the previous one. That is rare. Distinct graphic/visual upgrades without being too taxing on the computer, and overall well-rounded changes to the games "common sense" and fluidity. It's just more fun and feels right.
  20. Fireant
    Aug 17, 2013
    10
    The best game Paradox ever made up to date, almost flawless. Curious enough, I see some people have problem with font readability on 1920x1200 resolution I spotted no such issue myself! Game on it's own takes and mix the improved quality and immersion of CK2 mechanisms, greatly improved visual design and masterfully done UI (that no longer confuses even users that play the game for theirThe best game Paradox ever made up to date, almost flawless. Curious enough, I see some people have problem with font readability on 1920x1200 resolution I spotted no such issue myself! Game on it's own takes and mix the improved quality and immersion of CK2 mechanisms, greatly improved visual design and masterfully done UI (that no longer confuses even users that play the game for their first time ever) and mixed it with the game engine we all know from the EU series, adding a lot of more control and decision making to it without making it an overly complicated gargantuan.

    If you like grand strategies, EU4 is, for now, the king of them considering it's relative ease without sacrificing the complexity of gameplay. Give it a try I am myself a vivid CIV series fan, but EU4 offers such degree of control and decision-making, that any CIV game in comparison looks like child-play.

    And another thing that is unique to this genre in nowadays gaming world... When other games ends after circa 10 hours, you need that 10 hours to discover and get used to EU4 mechanism! Expect 200-300 hours of gameplay at ease from it. If not more.    … Expand
  21. alex-smollet
    Sep 5, 2014
    2
    This is randomizer - not a strategy game. Random unpredictable game events, random battle results. Very bugged patch 1.7. Waste of time. Shogun 2 or CIV5 more playable than this "product".
  22. jon-h86
    Sep 17, 2013
    10
    What a fantastic game. It is utterly engrossing. If you are a fan of civil 4 then you will love this game. An addictive masterpiece. It looks good too. The biggest down side is that it is too hard to stop playing once you get into a game. I have never played an EU game before. It took me about about 5-7 hours to learn how to play. It was a worthy investment and one I don't think anyWhat a fantastic game. It is utterly engrossing. If you are a fan of civil 4 then you will love this game. An addictive masterpiece. It looks good too. The biggest down side is that it is too hard to stop playing once you get into a game. I have never played an EU game before. It took me about about 5-7 hours to learn how to play. It was a worthy investment and one I don't think any serious arm chair emperor would regret.… Expand
  23. cdrwrecorders
    Sep 9, 2013
    10
    i had fun with this one. game is balanced and polished (almost no bugs). however i don't know if oversimplification is good direction to go, you can't chop of to much because you risking hurting a strategy heart of this game. i give it a 10 as badass seal of approval not real score
  24. stern
    Dec 8, 2013
    9
    How troubling is to review a PDS game... They are works in progress.
    But I feel something must be said about EU4 so long after its initial release.
    I was among the ones who pre-ordered it and I admit it was the first game I bought instead of pirating in, what? 10 years? The other game I bought before EU4 was Starcraft: Broodwar for you to have an idea. CK2 left a very good impresion in    How troubling is to review a PDS game... They are works in progress.
    But I feel something must be said about EU4 so long after its initial release.
    I was among the ones who pre-ordered it and I admit it was the first game I bought instead of pirating in, what? 10 years? The other game I bought before EU4 was Starcraft: Broodwar for you to have an idea.
    CK2 left a very good impresion in me, I thought PDS was finally getting a hang of things and I decided to support them. And when EU4 came, I played a bit with Burgundy, I was a litlle frustrated and regreted my decision, shelving the game.
    But then came all the patchs, game fixes and balances (like trade nerfing). Now EU4 is amazing and I already spent hours and hours and hours in this game, bulding Switzerland into a constitutional republic, an economical world power against France, making my north American kingdom with a norwegian court-in-exile, and many others plays.
    I didn't understood the sinergy and connection between Monarchic Points, technology, buildings and everything else at first, but now I see how well planed and structured everything is in this game and I'm enjoying very much. The only bad thing I would say, is that same thing that EU3 also had: is a deterministic game. You can't take Spain and go for a military non-colonial game, you can't take Brandenburg and not focus on forming Germany/Prussia, otherwise the game punishs you and thing lose sense. Also the lack of natives in South America, and how the lack of a La Plata trade node.
    Anyway, it's an awesome iteration and I hope that East versus West follows its footsteps.    … Expand
  25. AbaDe
    Sep 27, 2013
    10
    GOOD
    Epic Game
    Just Perfect Diplomacy Standards Technology bias is just perfect Requires brains and strategy when fighting against coalition of forces BAD Requires cheats to really win only the best can win without using cheats . A bit Long, sometimes i am sleeping just in front of my computer Bugs can ruin your life, if combing armies (you cannot combine more than 3 units at a    GOOD
    Epic Game
    Just Perfect Diplomacy Standards
    Technology bias is just perfect
    Requires brains and strategy when fighting against coalition of forces

    BAD
    Requires cheats to really win only the best can win without using cheats .
    A bit Long, sometimes i am sleeping just in front of my computer
    Bugs can ruin your life, if combing armies (you cannot combine more than 3 units at a time
    Every army requires general to win (without a general-ed army you are bound to loose, even with having a huge amassed army)    … Expand
  26. Contingencee
    Aug 16, 2013
    10
    If you liked EU III you'll definitely like EU IV. It looks very similar, but the game mechanics are actually quite different, so the experience as a whole is a lot different. Some aspects of the game are a little easier, but as a whole I think the game is a little bit harder than its predecessor.
    I think new players would find EU IV a little easier to learn than EU III. The new hints    If you liked EU III you'll definitely like EU IV. It looks very similar, but the game mechanics are actually quite different, so the experience as a whole is a lot different. Some aspects of the game are a little easier, but as a whole I think the game is a little bit harder than its predecessor.
    I think new players would find EU IV a little easier to learn than EU III. The new hints system is quite informative and well made.

    There really isn't anything bad to say about the game except the performance which hasn't been improved. If you are a strategy fan don't hesitate just get the game.    … Expand
  27. Nerdlife
    Aug 20, 2013
    10
    Easily one of the best grand strategy games ever released. After Crusader Kings 2 i thought that Paradox wouldn't be able to release EU IV without bugs, but they did. A highly polished and amazing game. Worthy of every praise.

    If you are into the genre, it's a must buy. If you are not, it's still a must buy.
  28. Yazah
    Sep 7, 2013
    5
    This game is your standard micro-management world domination type of game. It has a demo, so check it out and see if it is worth buying.

    Two things I don't like: 1) Almost all the 10 star reviews on here are from people who have never reviewed another game, and they all use pretty much the same language. So be suspicious. 2) The game itself has tons of DLC so if you want the    This game is your standard micro-management world domination type of game. It has a demo, so check it out and see if it is worth buying.

    Two things I don't like:

    1) Almost all the 10 star reviews on here are from people who have never reviewed another game, and they all use pretty much the same language. So be suspicious.

    2) The game itself has tons of DLC so if you want the "full experience" it costs closer to $70, not the $40 you pay initially.

    Beside that, rebels in the game are severely overpowered, and so world domination becomes more of a "whack-a-mole" challenge with rebels that magically arise from poor and remote provinces with 10 armies. Sure, keep your people happy, give them what they want, expand slowly I get it. But if you want anything resembling a "quick" game (under 30 hours) this is not it. And the 30 hours aren't fun it's just waiting for things to build, hoping nobody declares war on you for the things you did 500 years ago, and totally disrupting your empire's stability.

    Also, research: It penalizes you for getting ahead, which basically takes away any incentive for a technological type victory and instead forces you into the cookie-cutter "gentle wars and diplomacy" approach that this is built around.

    Overall, game design needs a bit of diversity, and more strategic options to make it replayable.    … Expand
  29. vXxo0oxXv
    Oct 6, 2013
    4
    After about 25 hours I decided I'd had enough. I entirely appreciate the hard work and research that went into this game, but when I play a game I'm looking for entertainment, not a history lesson. The game's UI is overly complicated, and difficult to navigate. The tutorials are short and vague and don't really explain how to play the game. The gameplay is stiff and feels linear. When IAfter about 25 hours I decided I'd had enough. I entirely appreciate the hard work and research that went into this game, but when I play a game I'm looking for entertainment, not a history lesson. The game's UI is overly complicated, and difficult to navigate. The tutorials are short and vague and don't really explain how to play the game. The gameplay is stiff and feels linear. When I play this game, it feels like I'm staring and watching the game play itself most of the time. One of the more exciting aspects of the game is clicking on a button to send a diplomat to another country, so you can watch a number climb on the diplomacy screen.. wtf? Feels more like a spreadsheet than a game.… Expand
  30. Cyliann
    Jun 5, 2014
    1
    Loved EU3, even with the rather abruptly ending time-line. This? Ho boy.

    Paradox Interactive has decided after a repeated amount of failures to simply stream-line their product to a now shallow experience from what used to be an intensive and deep conquering experience. As EU3, EU4 features "Random events" that causes your countries stability to go down. The difference from this game    Loved EU3, even with the rather abruptly ending time-line. This? Ho boy.

    Paradox Interactive has decided after a repeated amount of failures to simply stream-line their product to a now shallow experience from what used to be an intensive and deep conquering experience. As EU3, EU4 features "Random events" that causes your countries stability to go down. The difference from this game and the prequel is that you could spend your country's budget on increasing the country's stability, be it re-building things, bribing rebellious people or just getting things in order.

    What does this mean? Well, you sometimes had to pour every single ounce of your earnings into this as Stability meant more income and a happier populance and sometimes, the game could decide to be especially cruel and constantly ravage your country's stability. That was fine since you could be a careful ruler and prepared counter-measures such as a fat treasury or having the proper advisors. In EU4? Get unlucky with a lot of instability and you're boned by being utterly crippled by either not being able to research better governmenting or simply not gaining enough administrative power due to a rubbish leader. Rebels will also, comedically enough, everywhere at war-times, being many times the size of your country's total manpower as your entire economy also crumbles down to a shadow of It's former glory. The methods of reducing this? Wait around for administrative power. Yup. No budget relocation, no personal efforts from you and 100% impossible situations... Unless you Save & Load abuse, averting these random events.

    It removes depth, It removes customizability, It removes consequences from user input and It's simply a pile of streamlined garbage because Instead of crafting a proper tutorial to get new people into this game, Paradox decided to just slam everything down so flat, any handicapped idiot can walk over it and seeing all these 10/10's being thrown like poop from monkeys makes me believe that everyone either hasn't even tried EU3 or failed to understand even a fraction of it.

    Don't get me wrong, I understand what they were trying to do by making advisors be "point" generators instead of allocating budget.. But the thing is, advisors are vomit-inducingly expensive. At the start of my game, the year 51 after christ, I could have the option of hiring an administrative helper. He demands a down-payment of 150 gold. Understandable since he is good but the sinner here is the additional 9.3 gold EVERY MONTH. How much is that? Well, let's just say It's far above the maximum amounts you can pay to enough to fully maintain an army of about 100,000+ men when you can only maintain about 20,000 men.

    If you own 4-5 regions, you can expect a monthly income of about 2-3 gold discluding expenses. This means he either uses diamonds as toilet paper or has an incureable habit of breathing gold.. Just.... No. Try harder next time, Paradox Interactive.    … Expand
  31. Megatanis
    Aug 28, 2013
    5
    uhm..ok this is a tough one. I am a huge fan of the EU and CIV series, been playing since EU2 and the very first civ game, pure genius. They did with EU4 more or less what they did to the civ series: streamlined. If this is good for you, then you'lll ike EU4. Personally, I consider civ5 to be one of the worst pieces of crap to have ever graced my HD, an insult to intelligence.
    With EU4, I    uhm..ok this is a tough one. I am a huge fan of the EU and CIV series, been playing since EU2 and the very first civ game, pure genius. They did with EU4 more or less what they did to the civ series: streamlined. If this is good for you, then you'lll ike EU4. Personally, I consider civ5 to be one of the worst pieces of crap to have ever graced my HD, an insult to intelligence.
    With EU4, I am not very sure. To understand why, one must have some sort of previous knowledge/experience of EU titles.
    The game is playable, and moderately enjoyable. Many dynamics have been completely changed, such as economy sliders (economy sliders?), the ever present money vs inflation vs tech investment "thing" (gone), trade is a sort of mystery I still have to figure out (but it's waaaay less relevant than in the older titles) and a very heavy reliance on a sort of point system determining tech progress and national ideas development (points generated are determined by your leader's skills, so you basically pray for a good leader).
    Everything is easier, simpler and more direct than in the older titles. Which does'nt mean I think it's better. I had perfectly accustomed to the old system, so these changes I view as unnecessary at worst and marginal at best. What I may say is that certainly the game tries to play like a classic EU title, and ends up being a slighlty less interesting "adventure" than in the previous installments.
    Of course there will be mods and patches, so I guess the game is going to change a lot.
    Suffice to say that my very first game at EU4 I chose to play the Pope, 3 starting provinces and lousy economy. Anyone who has played a EU game knows what I'm talking about. Well, after 50-60 years, I had all of Italy from Modena to Palermo. Core status and culture can be changed rather effortlessly, making expansion easy. I found all very very easy.
    Oh and of course, welcome to steam. I hope you are not bothered by things like not being able to play a LAN game with your brother sitting next to you without passing through steam, or having to read every time you start the game things like :"BUY NATIONAL MONUMENTS NOW!! ENTER OPEN STORE!!" which is kind of lame in my book especially in a strategic title (and btw, so I don't get national monuments if I don't pay?).
    At the end of the day, right now EU4 is a blander, less interesting and VERY streamlined version of EU3. A completely modded EU3 is a much more "mature" game.
    Time will tell if this game's aim was to change the genre and revive it in a constructive way, or to allow people to play EU on their iphones or something.    … Expand
  32. anmont
    Jul 25, 2014
    2
    Out of Sync.

    There is nothing worse than wanting to play an advanced grand strategy game than connecting to the game with a friend and being unable to play. EU4 has not resolved this issue, and it has plagued faithful buyers for years. While this is one of my favorite series, with in-depth complicated gameplay, it is in effect a single player game. Anyone who suggests otherwise, has    Out of Sync.

    There is nothing worse than wanting to play an advanced grand strategy game than connecting to the game with a friend and being unable to play.

    EU4 has not resolved this issue, and it has plagued faithful buyers for years. While this is one of my favorite series, with in-depth complicated gameplay, it is in effect a single player game. Anyone who suggests otherwise, has not played very far into a scenario. It works great for the first couple of decades and then disintegrates into a explosion of saving the game manually across the network and reloading from the last good save.

    If you want to play this game solo, its a 9/10. BUY IT...
    If you want to play with friends, please don't buy this game and quit reading the insane comments from people who have spent less than 10 hours playing the game. Do a simple google search for eu4 and OOS and find the hundreds of threads relating to this topic, that have persisted for several years in all of Paradox strategy games (Eu3, Crusader Kings, Victoria).    … Expand
  33. Loler13gr
    Oct 13, 2013
    8
    I must admit I did not see myself spending so many hours playing this game... One of the best RTS games on the market right now... The world at your disposal with a large number of nations to choose from... from The Knights to the Incas this game does an amazing job giving you the oportunity to rule the world and leave your mark on history or dissapear under the pressure of huge empiresI must admit I did not see myself spending so many hours playing this game... One of the best RTS games on the market right now... The world at your disposal with a large number of nations to choose from... from The Knights to the Incas this game does an amazing job giving you the oportunity to rule the world and leave your mark on history or dissapear under the pressure of huge empires like the Ottomans or the British... Paradox is quickly becoming one of my favourite studios in the strategy market...… Expand
  34. Klewer
    Sep 15, 2013
    8
    Another very strong and feature rich game from Paradox. Continues to improve on the previous version and adds new features. While it does not bring anything overly exciting or brand new the amount of time and enjoyment you will get from this makes it well worth the price.
  35. JohnDeer
    Sep 10, 2013
    10
    This is brilliant game. One of best paradox has ever made. CKII was the second best. I enjoy it a lot. I would recommend this game without any hesitation.
  36. caspasho
    Sep 10, 2013
    10
    Terrific game. Great uppgrade from the last one. Love all the new systems and also how easy it is to play multiplayer, definetly a buy (resonably priced too)
  37. mav3003
    Sep 10, 2013
    9
    Solid 9 for me needs a couple of patches for some tiny things but a great game...after coming back from Rome2 its a relief to play a well made and functioning game...pretty good.
  38. Cremno
    Sep 11, 2013
    9
    I was uncertain of whether I wanted to give this gave 8, 9 or 10. There are some very cool features, and some are slightly less so. But as I played the game more and more got me into thinking that this game is really thought through, and many of the things I started out disliking turned into realism points. I liked that! So here's a big 9 from me!
  39. Appren
    Oct 20, 2013
    10
    A very good game, there is simply no competition when it comes to this genre. Once you get past the (if a new player) somewhat overwhelming complexity, you'll be in for hours and hours of struggles, exploration, world domination, backstabbing allies or utter failure. And it will be even better once the first good mods start to come out, going to try MEIOU and taxes soon I think.
  40. TeddyTiger
    Jan 9, 2014
    10
    As a vivid total war fan, I was amazed by the amount of gameplay you can get from this game and I now have more hours playing this game than all the total wars (that are on steam) combined...Having said that the game is a "heavy" strategy game and it takes a good 20 hours before you have properly learnt the mechanics and another 100 untill you've really learnt everything (not that it isAs a vivid total war fan, I was amazed by the amount of gameplay you can get from this game and I now have more hours playing this game than all the total wars (that are on steam) combined...Having said that the game is a "heavy" strategy game and it takes a good 20 hours before you have properly learnt the mechanics and another 100 untill you've really learnt everything (not that it is necessary to have learnt every mechanic in the game to have fun)… Expand
  41. LaserJesus
    Feb 15, 2014
    10
    EU IV improves on EU III on nearly every level. The mechanics are less opaque, the gameplay is more accessible without losing complexity, and the introduction of Ironman mode provides an actual incentive to become actually GOOD at the game instead of just reloading saves every time things don't go your way.
  42. Echo92
    May 31, 2014
    10
    Absolutely fantastic game. I consider EU4 the best strategy game i've ever played. It is extremely detailed and quite complicated, which makes the game very immersive. This does however mean that the game will be difficult to enjoy if you're not willing to invest some time in learning the game, but the reward for investing a bit of time in this game is huge. There's nothing quite likeAbsolutely fantastic game. I consider EU4 the best strategy game i've ever played. It is extremely detailed and quite complicated, which makes the game very immersive. This does however mean that the game will be difficult to enjoy if you're not willing to invest some time in learning the game, but the reward for investing a bit of time in this game is huge. There's nothing quite like exploring the "what if's" of history. The multiplayer dimension of this game is very enjoyable if you enjoy a bit of scheming and friendly competition.
    I've noticed that a lot of the negative reviews complain about stuff like rebels and random bad things that will ruin your game. This isn't true, this is mainly a result of them not managing their nations properly.    … Expand
  43. revieweuropa
    Jun 14, 2014
    0
    It's the perfect and maybe most realistic strategy game ever.
    I knew that when I bought it, but didn't think about what it literally means. It means, you have to spend maybe years to conquere the World, maybe at least 3 weeks of intensive gaming, to double the size of your country. It definitely takes too much time, and in my opinion it definitely lacks an easy mode.
    I recommend you to    It's the perfect and maybe most realistic strategy game ever.
    I knew that when I bought it, but didn't think about what it literally means. It means, you have to spend maybe years to conquere the World, maybe at least 3 weeks of intensive gaming, to double the size of your country. It definitely takes too much time, and in my opinion it definitely lacks an easy mode.
    I recommend you to play it, if you have at least two, or more lifes. If you only have one, do not waste 2 or more years on playing this game.    … Expand
  44. Ntek_sr
    Dec 7, 2015
    0
    I have played the game for about 1000 hour. After a update to create a "pay-wall", you have to buy a DLC to be able to develop your provinces. And you buy the development by "Monarc"-points that is the same for a large as a small country. Mighty empires will not develop.

    Other untested major changes they did (almost everything changed) destroyed the balance and alter the game into    I have played the game for about 1000 hour. After a update to create a "pay-wall", you have to buy a DLC to be able to develop your provinces. And you buy the development by "Monarc"-points that is the same for a large as a small country. Mighty empires will not develop.

    Other untested major changes they did (almost everything changed) destroyed the balance and alter the game into another game. A game that is bad.

    Sadly it seems that Paradox have begin to abuse DLC a lot... don't know if I can trust them any more.    … Expand
  45. ShiningDec
    Jul 16, 2014
    0
    The game was good at the begining, but after each patch, its quality drop constantly. Developer make the game become more boring and prevent player from expanding by any tool they can imagine. Please don't buy this game.
  46. Zarsus
    Sep 12, 2014
    1
    I was utterly addicted to the game.. until the 1.6 & 1.7 that just made me quit it probably forever. It's one thing to fix bugs and adding missing features, it's another thing to modify the game mechanics again and again and again and actually making the game worse.
    Now it's pretty much pointless to play any non-European nation since they'll be utterly defenseless in late games, and    I was utterly addicted to the game.. until the 1.6 & 1.7 that just made me quit it probably forever. It's one thing to fix bugs and adding missing features, it's another thing to modify the game mechanics again and again and again and actually making the game worse.
    Now it's pretty much pointless to play any non-European nation since they'll be utterly defenseless in late games, and westernization is much more excruciating with less benefits than before. If you don't westernize you are screwed; if you do you are still screwed, just a little bit less so. They might as well just stop wasting time on adding events/game mechanics for all non-European nations since there's no point in that. If I wanted to experience something completely historically accurate, I'd read Wikipedia on world history, thank you very much.
    Oh, and it's very irritating that, Monarchy Points, the one most vital resource to the game is nearly completely random, the super expensive +3 administrator means nothing when your ruler has 0 talent, and there's absolutely nothing you can do about it. Nothing. At all. So instead of screwing around with working game mechanics, how about adding some sort of successor mechanics such that the player can select from a number of different successors, each with his own pro and cons.    … Expand
  47. orctown-troll
    Nov 7, 2013
    10
    Writing this review immediately after one for Rome 2 it is perfectly clear where the best team of strategy game designers can presently be found. It's HERE! The problems, or weaknesses in this game exist, of course. Few games are truly perfect. The font size is irritating. The concessions to simplicity can sometimes exceed the necessities of elegance and render gameplay somewhat anemic inWriting this review immediately after one for Rome 2 it is perfectly clear where the best team of strategy game designers can presently be found. It's HERE! The problems, or weaknesses in this game exist, of course. Few games are truly perfect. The font size is irritating. The concessions to simplicity can sometimes exceed the necessities of elegance and render gameplay somewhat anemic in comparison to previous iterations. Indeed. Indeed. Granted. Paradox can still do better. The point is that they are TRYING and improving steadily. Not only this game. All their titles. Thanks for a great game! Many of the issues players have will be solved when Paradox finally integrates a solid server based multiplayer experience, and allows a more comprehensive game-set-up interface where players can enable or disable individual 'advanced' features. Let the one game have the capacity to play well for both strategy novices and hard core players and you will achieve perfection. May it be SOON.

    Orctowngrot.

    Orctowngrot.    … Expand
  48. BillNyeTheScien
    Feb 8, 2014
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is not horrible. But not what I expected there are a few things that get on my nerves when playing the game. One is that the game is very dark. not bright at all. Another thing is that the mac version is extremely laggy and delays when you try to move the screen. the time speed increase should be a little faster. And I don't like the new technology and nerfed buildings. I just pointed out some of the bad parts of the game. I do like the new relations and diplomacy system instead of there being a random chance of a nation accepting an alliance like in the third title.… Expand
  49. MikeB26
    Apr 27, 2017
    0
    Bought it. Wasn't able to start a Steam account. Was told to "try again later." Did this several times over 30 minutes. $39. Can't play. Rip off.
  50. lancedance2
    Nov 17, 2013
    3
    I'm done with this game. It's good at first but it is almost a copy and paste of the last game with a couple added features and a little better graphics. That's not my main issue though, the problem is the "random" negative events. The game constantly has one to take down my stability every time I get it up one. If I didn't re-load every time that happened, until I got an event thatI'm done with this game. It's good at first but it is almost a copy and paste of the last game with a couple added features and a little better graphics. That's not my main issue though, the problem is the "random" negative events. The game constantly has one to take down my stability every time I get it up one. If I didn't re-load every time that happened, until I got an event that didn't effect my stability, I would have quit much sooner. These events got more frequent the longer I play into the game to the point were the game is unplayable. This is either a bug or an idiotic development decisions, either way I've quit playing until this is fixed. Buy EU 3 instead or download it for free off pirate bay if you really want to try it out.… Expand
  51. iamnotoriginal
    Oct 17, 2013
    4
    Of course I realize that strategy games aren't for everyone. And people can be overwhelmed extremely at first. But this game I can proudly say fixed about every problem in EU3. It also made the game harder. Which I am happy of. The main great thing about this game is that not only it can take you an entire day to finish the game, but also each time you play it it's different. And not likeOf course I realize that strategy games aren't for everyone. And people can be overwhelmed extremely at first. But this game I can proudly say fixed about every problem in EU3. It also made the game harder. Which I am happy of. The main great thing about this game is that not only it can take you an entire day to finish the game, but also each time you play it it's different. And not like minor changes. I mean major changes that can change the entire outcome of the game. One game france can be a major superpower. The next it's the weakest country in Europe. Its the randomness that I love the most about this game. And of course the minor changes of graphics. But I can proudly say this is the best game ever made paradox.… Expand
  52. jclaiborne2007
    Dec 15, 2015
    1
    There is only one way to play this game. Buy the base game and never ever update. This game has gone from good to horrible with every poorly conceived and ill executed expansion. All of the talent is gone to make a space game leaving 2 imbeciles to wreck this once great game. I would like to introduce these greedy sobs to a brand new concept: Quality Assurance.
  53. Ananisapta
    Dec 23, 2013
    2
    This is a potentially good title but not ready for prime time. Assets include the ability to take over the realm of your choice in the year of your choice and manage a lot of interesting contingencies within a realistic historical context. There's a lot not to like, however. Documentation is scanty and imperfectly grammatical. The interface is a kludge and not very intuitive for new users,This is a potentially good title but not ready for prime time. Assets include the ability to take over the realm of your choice in the year of your choice and manage a lot of interesting contingencies within a realistic historical context. There's a lot not to like, however. Documentation is scanty and imperfectly grammatical. The interface is a kludge and not very intuitive for new users, plus there are still annoying glitches after more than four months. The user forums don't notify you when a topic you're following is updated, and there is outright flaming of beginners from veteran users. Here's a representative comment: "Why don't you quit whining and learn to use a simple interface?" Perhaps the biggest problem is that the game mechanics are almost impenetrable in their complexity and the playing experience is like being nibbled to death by snails.… Expand
  54. Jimbro84
    Apr 10, 2014
    0
    Sadly, a lot of work was put into this game and I wanted hard to like it but no, it sucks. If civ5 is a little predictable, EU4 is soo random. EU4 is superior to civ5 as to diplomacy BUT: Constant clock watching and reading of mundane pop-ups of bad news. Very few units and buildings and 90% of that implies no visuals. Not to mention that the battles are devoid of any strategy besidesSadly, a lot of work was put into this game and I wanted hard to like it but no, it sucks. If civ5 is a little predictable, EU4 is soo random. EU4 is superior to civ5 as to diplomacy BUT: Constant clock watching and reading of mundane pop-ups of bad news. Very few units and buildings and 90% of that implies no visuals. Not to mention that the battles are devoid of any strategy besides terrain modifiers and adding generals and admirals (which is more of a choice than a strategy anyways). Overly hard, boring and complicated. Virtually no tutorials. Nice graphics though.… Expand
  55. m1rev
    Dec 26, 2013
    0
    Unique historical strategy. Difficult to enter. but if you understand it, you love it. Nice graphics, user-friendly interface and addictive gameplay.
    The game has many of little things that generally create a unique gaming experience.
  56. Relian
    Jun 1, 2014
    5
    Tried playing this game and just couldn't get into it. I kept getting wars with 8+ factions against me, and it just took forever to get anything done. Boring.
  57. BeatHour
    Dec 16, 2013
    10
    I've been playing since EU3 IN, and while this game lacks the labyrinth of content featured in EU3, its much more focused, much more accessible, much less boring. Its decidedly easier to play from the start date to the end, and gameplay stays pretty playable and constant throughout, where I would usually quit EU3 by the 1600s.

    All in all, its a fun game, and a nice change of pace from    I've been playing since EU3 IN, and while this game lacks the labyrinth of content featured in EU3, its much more focused, much more accessible, much less boring. Its decidedly easier to play from the start date to the end, and gameplay stays pretty playable and constant throughout, where I would usually quit EU3 by the 1600s.

    All in all, its a fun game, and a nice change of pace from other PI titles. Before EU3 was like a dumbed down version of Victoria 2, but now the EU franchise stands on its own among the PI titles.    … Expand
  58. Tytos
    Nov 5, 2013
    8
    This is nothing for the mentally handicapped. A lot has improved since EU3, especially the multiplayer-features. My only critique here is that there is too much focus on rulers, it's pure luck due to this system how easy or hard your nation is going to be played and that's pretty frustrating, especially in multiplayer.
  59. Connolius
    Jan 14, 2014
    9
    EUIV will go down as one of the best of its genre. Ive played the EU series, CK II, V II & all the CIVs. This one is in depth, the alliances and diplomacy is extremely vital particular if you are smaller nation whereby the strength of your alliances are as vital as your armies.

    Example, as the Papal States, I was able to ride France and a combination of moving alliances w/ Switzerland,    EUIV will go down as one of the best of its genre. Ive played the EU series, CK II, V II & all the CIVs. This one is in depth, the alliances and diplomacy is extremely vital particular if you are smaller nation whereby the strength of your alliances are as vital as your armies.

    Example, as the Papal States, I was able to ride France and a combination of moving alliances w/ Switzerland, Poland, Hungary and smaller alliances, ie. Savoy to unite provinces before turning on Savoy and taking Piedmont with the help of Lorraine to whom for 100 years we were enemies.

    Moreover, you can use the diplomacy system to drive wedges in Alliances. Example, I needed to take Venice but Aragaon was allied with both Venice and other Allies and would have backed Venice if I attacked. So I spent a few years goading Aragaon into attacking me, France and my Allies backed up, Venice stayed in a coalition to attack. Viola, I kept my allies, won the war and now have Venice ready to fall once the true ends.

    Another key point is that its better to take a minor loss than doggedly hang in, losing cash or manpower. If you are losing the battle, drop out. Take a loss of territory, rebuild a better alliance and retake the land. If a foreign army defeated you and you dont have an army ready to retake the land, conceede the territory otherwise the army will roll up your other properties and will take even more.

    Combat has improved in so far as you need to take into account terrain more than in other Paradox titles. Have a stack of 20, think it will crush that stack of 10? Oh **** its dug in on a mountain? Bye bye. Morale low? Bye bye.

    Use smaller units to draw opposing enemies trying to crush a smaller army on terrain favourable to you so they take the penalty, then march your larger stack in. A small stack on favourable terrain will hold out, your larger stack arrives and now you have trapped their army.

    What i dont like is the armies and battles while important seem very generic. There is no feel. I cant get it a perfect score despite having hrs of fun because combat on a whole can still come down to mass.

    Good: Diplomacy, usage of points as opposed to cash to research tech, use of inflation to stop hoarding cash thus forcing investments. Multiple directions to achieve a variety of self chosen goals.

    Bad: Combat needs to have an improved feel. Its still bland.

    If you like the genre, you'll love the game. If you're new to the genre, save regularly and take the first 100 years as a learning experience. Id give it 10/10 but for the combat needing work.    … Expand
  60. giltinas
    Dec 13, 2013
    9
    With Clausewitz engine, the game seems quite better. The map whets the appetites of players, as in Crusader Kings II. Same motor, different lanes. EU series are RTS games, which pressurize total-war lovers; but in this sequence you can clearly see the points of game. Panels are self-explanatory and simplified. This fact can irritate harcore Paradox fans, but the game needs more newbies toWith Clausewitz engine, the game seems quite better. The map whets the appetites of players, as in Crusader Kings II. Same motor, different lanes. EU series are RTS games, which pressurize total-war lovers; but in this sequence you can clearly see the points of game. Panels are self-explanatory and simplified. This fact can irritate harcore Paradox fans, but the game needs more newbies to expand itself. Without losing its own core mechanics, applying this novelties is a pointed strike for Paradox Interactive. We expect CK3 or Victoria 3 for near future!!!… Expand
  61. kaibert
    Dec 14, 2013
    9
    This game is a good strategy game and not too dumbed down. We owe it to Paradox Interactive for not succumbing to the pressure of casual gamers and their inattentive wallets.
  62. ThunderHawk
    Oct 25, 2013
    9
    A strategy game that has quite deep strategy involved.

    Bad things first : - Lack of tutorials. The hints are not helping at all. The gamers who got experience with previous Paradox's title will still feel at home, but newcomers will feel overwhelmed. - Diplomacy. AI has a weird sense when declaring war. Sometimes they declare war for 10-15 years only to fight for a single province. Or    A strategy game that has quite deep strategy involved.

    Bad things first :
    - Lack of tutorials. The hints are not helping at all. The gamers who got experience with previous Paradox's title will still feel at home, but newcomers will feel overwhelmed.
    - Diplomacy. AI has a weird sense when declaring war. Sometimes they declare war for 10-15 years only to fight for a single province. Or they fight another power that have zillions of alliances. Or they drag you into a fight that they and you can't win.

    Good things :
    - Deep strategy. Wars is just one way of exerting your influence. You can use diplomats to rise up rebels in your enemy countries, or you can send off colonist to faraway lands to increase your influence. and trade.
    - A lot of historical events, and how you can follow it or change it.
    - Each nation has its own flavor. For example, you could see Spain and Portugal, and followed later by England, send off their colonist. But you will never see non-colonizing countries such as France, Papal States, or Burgundy colonize the New World.    … Expand
  63. Back2c
    Nov 25, 2013
    8
    First of all, I'm a new player to EU. Then, to briefly sum up, that game is great but unfinished.

    Let's start by the wrong side the game crashes quite often (like 1 time on 5 or 6 when I accept a peace treaty), the translation isn't over (I'm playing the french version, and lots of stuff are nearly un-understandable due to translation that doesn't always make sense, sometimes not even    First of all, I'm a new player to EU. Then, to briefly sum up, that game is great but unfinished.

    Let's start by the wrong side the game crashes quite often (like 1 time on 5 or 6 when I accept a peace treaty), the translation isn't over (I'm playing the french version, and lots of stuff are nearly un-understandable due to translation that doesn't always make sense, sometimes not even translated), there's code in some pop-ups (FRONT_Stuff), and so on...

    Now the good side I find it a great strategy game, for it is complex (sometimes a bit too much, considering there are some information lacking, mostly about trade, and the ingame help is not really helping for it is far too short) but still manageable. The system of diplomatic alliances is complex yet you can't but use it if you plan on becoming important (and not being override by your foes), your economy is quite hard to manage (wars nearly always ruined me in the first times), and even after hours of playing, you still discover stuff you never noticed.

    Then again, it might not be different from previous EU, I can't compare. But this game is definitely great, though I advise you to wait for its development to be really ended.    … Expand
  64. Eppert
    Nov 19, 2013
    9
    A great working game with a depth, which should take place as model in genre of strategy.
    There are uncountable ways to reign your nation and to expand. You can play it nearly complete peaceful or conquer all the world.
    The DLC policy by Paradox is fair. There are a few bugs, but Paradox is publishing a lot of free updates to improve the game until it is working well. Currently it    A great working game with a depth, which should take place as model in genre of strategy.
    There are uncountable ways to reign your nation and to expand. You can play it nearly complete peaceful or conquer all the world.

    The DLC policy by Paradox is fair.

    There are a few bugs, but Paradox is publishing a lot of free updates to improve the game until it is working well.
    Currently it keeps the status of being one of the best strategy games, maybe it will reach it.

    Best regards,
    Eppert    … Expand
  65. footslogger
    Nov 22, 2013
    10
    I'm new to the eu series and have just started playing eu4. I was apprehensive at first and worried about the 'spreadsheet effect' but now find it totally absorbing and fun. I would certainly advise any other newcomers to give it a good few hours play before making up their minds. It's a beautifully crafted and deep game which simulates well the historical process. I find I have toI'm new to the eu series and have just started playing eu4. I was apprehensive at first and worried about the 'spreadsheet effect' but now find it totally absorbing and fun. I would certainly advise any other newcomers to give it a good few hours play before making up their minds. It's a beautifully crafted and deep game which simulates well the historical process. I find I have to think very carefully about decisions because the ai will pounce if I do something stupid. I'm a long time player of the Civ series but this feels much more satisfying. Diplomacy, always a background irritation that I largely ignored in the Civ games, works very well in eu4 and has to be taken seriously into account. I like the way trade works too. All in all, I've still only scratched the surface of the game but can tell that it will provide me with many hours of entertainment, with lots of variety. Well done to all concerned in its production!… Expand
  66. 68Camaro
    Dec 16, 2013
    8
    Great game. Very addicting. A few minor quarks but every game has them. Paradox is getting better and better over time though. In a few years, I bet I have all their major titles, instead of just Hearts and Europa.
  67. Lindorn
    Dec 9, 2013
    10
    Over 350 hours in at this point if You are a history nerd, grand strategist, or love to see a game play out in infinite variation this is your game. Drop Civilization and play this now. For those unfamiliar with the franchise the timer system (you pause, adjust speed, and start again), constantly active gameplay, and the ability to determine your own criteria for "winning" the gameOver 350 hours in at this point if You are a history nerd, grand strategist, or love to see a game play out in infinite variation this is your game. Drop Civilization and play this now. For those unfamiliar with the franchise the timer system (you pause, adjust speed, and start again), constantly active gameplay, and the ability to determine your own criteria for "winning" the game provides the ultimate open-ended strategy experience.… Expand
  68. ladeia
    Dec 15, 2013
    10
    Paradox made a game that is both greatly enjoyable and educative! It would be a great idea if schools and Unis around the world start using EU4 as a complement to history teaching!
  69. atomic_critic
    Dec 28, 2013
    10
    what a fascinating improvement! The graphics are better than Europa universalis and the historical content still stays the same.This game is like crusader kings but a whole lot bigger.Well done PARADOX!
  70. goldensleeve
    Jan 4, 2014
    10
    If you like strategy games, this is:
    The.Best.Game.Ever.
    Period. Look no further. I envy you if this is your first taste of Europa Universalis. Sit back, relax, take your time, and Enjoy! You're in for a long haul. May it bring you countless hours of enjoyment. If you're a fan of EU III and on the fence about diving into IV, DO IT!!! There is so much more to do here, and so much    If you like strategy games, this is:
    The.Best.Game.Ever.
    Period.
    Look no further.
    I envy you if this is your first taste of Europa Universalis. Sit back, relax, take your time, and Enjoy! You're in for a long haul. May it bring you countless hours of enjoyment.
    If you're a fan of EU III and on the fence about diving into IV, DO IT!!! There is so much more to do here, and so much improvement in diplomacy, trade, economy, military, etc ....
    EU IV is simply awesome.    … Expand
  71. TheBjornDude
    Jan 8, 2014
    10
    This game is just awful. It is boring and is not very user friendly. If you want to get achievements you need to use ironman mode which uses the steam cloud to save. Let me tell you that the steam cloud is for saving. The game drags out and you need serious will power to make it to the end. I give this game 5 stars.
  72. Hirron
    Jan 11, 2014
    9
    My only complaint about the game is the large amount of DLC, Which 1 year in stands at 10 different pieces. Hence the nine.

    Overall the integration of history has been done extremely well. Events can be significant but at the same time do not make or break most games (Only real big one I can think of is Burgundian Inheritance). Outside of Europe there is less polish (with exceptions to    My only complaint about the game is the large amount of DLC, Which 1 year in stands at 10 different pieces. Hence the nine.

    Overall the integration of history has been done extremely well. Events can be significant but at the same time do not make or break most games (Only real big one I can think of is Burgundian Inheritance). Outside of Europe there is less polish (with exceptions to Japan and Ottomans), yet outside of NA you can always find at least one unique player. Combined with mods ( Now easily available through steam workshop) you can get a great experience.

    Then there is the experiments you craft yourself, to see the Cherokee dominate North America, the Aztec conquer both Americas. To unite imperial japan and combat through Asia while colonizing the new world. To break away as Naples and unite the great boot of Italy. To turn Novgorod, a trading nation annexed by Muscovy with armies about 2 times larger, into a nation that not only remains but is able to overcome Muscovy to form a new democratic Russia. These are a few of my experience. A very fun way of playing against history.

    EU4 has a great level of mechanics. It emphasizes macro decisions, long term planning and paying attention to alliances as the world shifts around you. What makes the system great however I would say comes down to the fact that it is harshly enforced while relatively simply to understand (A few games to figure out) Playing as Austria one quickly learns the folly of ransacking smaller neighbors.

    Overall a great game that I've played for 200 hours, and continue to play. All for 40$    … Expand
  73. anakingodx
    Jan 25, 2014
    9
    The game is definitely a great game and a must buy. While the strategy is different from game series's like Total War or Civilization. The game may seem daunting to people new to paradox grand strategy games however, the tutorials are very good and will definitely help you when you start playing. The game is very challenging and complex but at the same time , the game is also designed soThe game is definitely a great game and a must buy. While the strategy is different from game series's like Total War or Civilization. The game may seem daunting to people new to paradox grand strategy games however, the tutorials are very good and will definitely help you when you start playing. The game is very challenging and complex but at the same time , the game is also designed so that new players can get right in and have a great time. I have never played any previous games of this genre (grand strategy I previously stuck with Total War and Civilization) and I was afraid that I would get bored quickly. This game provides a great entry for people new to the genre for those who have found it too daunting or complex beforehand.… Expand
  74. mvm900
    Feb 5, 2016
    8
    I, unlike others apparently, enjoyed the game. Sadly it seems that some people couldn't figure out the game and I must confess that, in my 400 clocked hours on steam, have never touched the tutorial. I learn myself from just jumping in and seeing what happens and EU4 wasn't too hard to figure out. Some mechanics are still kind of weird and alien to me, like the trade system which isI, unlike others apparently, enjoyed the game. Sadly it seems that some people couldn't figure out the game and I must confess that, in my 400 clocked hours on steam, have never touched the tutorial. I learn myself from just jumping in and seeing what happens and EU4 wasn't too hard to figure out. Some mechanics are still kind of weird and alien to me, like the trade system which is actually kind of weird. All in all as a game I liked it for it's historical accuracy it aims to have.

    And onto the DLC. This game has been updated and changed since it's inception. It is now an almost completely different game. The DLC only adds stuff and you lose nothing by not buying them, and they go on sale quite a lot. A lot of paradox games do. In fact I picked up CK2 and all of it's DLC for $40. And they do it rather fairly on multiplayer because if the host has it everyone can use it.    … Expand
  75. Braggi
    Aug 22, 2014
    9
    Beware the time sink!
    This is more a simulation than a game, but paradox has done a lot with the UI to make it accessible. The core theme is european expansion and colonisation from 15th to 19th century.
    Different tech groups pace the speed of research, with the western group fastest and nomads at the bottom. Countries will eventually specialize in subgroups for military, exploration    Beware the time sink!
    This is more a simulation than a game, but paradox has done a lot with the UI to make it accessible. The core theme is european expansion and colonisation from 15th to 19th century.

    Different tech groups pace the speed of research, with the western group fastest and nomads at the bottom. Countries will eventually specialize in subgroups for military, exploration and so on according to their needs. You can play any country, and the monarch point system, diplomacy and alliances make small countries playable, coalitions hold aggressive monarchs in check.
    Overall it does a great job here. Spain at the fringes of Europe feels different from a continental power or the Ottomans, a western nation poses different tasks than an asian realm.

    The game starts slow, with almost no options except diplomacy and military at first. It takes some time until other options unfold. Even losing a war once in a while is usually not the end.
    Slowly your reach and power expand, and new challenges and opportulities unfold. Scripted events according to actual history change the map.

    Religion plays a big role. With religious ideas and laws, evangelising your whole realm is possible in a short time. (cultural conversion costs monarch points, so you usually leave this be). This feels somewhat unrealistic in an otherwise exceptionally balanced system; on the other hand you need a social tech group that could also improve military, expansion or trade.

    The Wealth of Nations expansion added some trade improvements and closed an expansion loophole (integrating vassals was too cheap). The new rival and power projection system is also neat.
    I tried and dropped the first eu versions very fast - too complex and lost in detail. eu IV still hast tons of detail and depth, but is actually easily operated.    … Expand
  76. DarkMoonGaming
    Feb 20, 2015
    10
    Finaly something good. I played this for about 400 hours and it is awesome. Really. If you like grand strategy games ( like civilization 5) or have played other paradox games just buy it. It is awesome.
  77. epistm87
    Nov 11, 2015
    10
    An Enlightened balance of depth and accessibility that brings grand strategy into a new era. smooth gameplay, great songs, minimalistic. It has a high replayability,
  78. XDavidX
    Nov 23, 2015
    10
    The game is just amazing. I love play this game. For me this game is amazing ! Nothing more to comment because this game is amazing ! I rate this 10/10
  79. dlcatalin
    Jan 17, 2021
    3
    Im going to give it a 3 ! It got everything right ... it's a diamond of a game. BUT ... BUUUUT ... it's 0 fun because they spent ZERO EFFORT into making it fair and challenging. What happens is you lose your manpower in like 3 lost fights while the enemy magically has INFINITE pool of soldiers and INFINITE money. So even if you occupy ALL their provinces and SCORCH EARTH all of them andIm going to give it a 3 ! It got everything right ... it's a diamond of a game. BUT ... BUUUUT ... it's 0 fun because they spent ZERO EFFORT into making it fair and challenging. What happens is you lose your manpower in like 3 lost fights while the enemy magically has INFINITE pool of soldiers and INFINITE money. So even if you occupy ALL their provinces and SCORCH EARTH all of them and DEFEAT their armies in ONE MILLION BATTLES, they still spawn back to 100% health in a few days. Not to mention that if you have for example 10 provinces you can make a 10 unit army while the enemy can make like a 30 unit army for the same ammount of provinces with same development and everything. Its just a big unfair pile of %^& to give you the illusion of a challenge.… Expand
  80. makrinthor
    Feb 3, 2018
    10
    One of the best game i've ever played, infinite gameplay, continuous updates
  81. tastybaldeagle
    Feb 5, 2018
    10
    I have thousands of hours on this grand strategy. Paradox Interactive is a superb company to support, and they really care about their games and their customers. Despite its age, this game feels brand new.
  82. puur0
    Feb 22, 2018
    10
    This is one of the best historical games if not the best. So much complexion and strategy
  83. antoxaxaxa
    Nov 2, 2018
    9
    Это очередная божественная стратегия от параходов.
    +
    Интересный МП Огромное кол-во стран и доступных путей игры Большое кол-во механик - Рандом (очень много для стратегий) ДЛЦ Иногда туповатый ИИ Если вы любите стратегии то покупайте и играйте. (Не играйте в мп если у вас нет 2000 часов в игре не повторяйте моих ошибок)    Это очередная божественная стратегия от параходов.
    +
    Интересный МП
    Огромное кол-во стран и доступных путей игры
    Большое кол-во механик
    -
    Рандом (очень много для стратегий)
    ДЛЦ
    Иногда туповатый ИИ

    Если вы любите стратегии то покупайте и играйте. (Не играйте в мп если у вас нет 2000 часов в игре не повторяйте моих ошибок)
  84. erdogfu96
    Feb 8, 2020
    3
    I like strategy games but it's easy is hard for me. This game need to be more playable. If you write there setting named easy, than make it easy. Menus are confusing. No story and gameplay is slow. There is no depth in strategy (plots etc) .
  85. Dickm4n
    Jun 9, 2020
    0
    The unbalanced countries / dynasties make multiplayer impossible. The graphic is just below average. Didn't feel entertained while playing, nor was I educated in history.
  86. Tubey
    May 16, 2015
    7
    Hmmm what to make of this... on one side of the coin, this is an absolutely majestic bit of game making with an unparalleled amount of attention to detail. But on the other side, it is horrifically dictated by RNG random events and has the smallest UI text known to mankind; which is bad because this game lives and dies by its' massive amount of menus and sub menus.

    Intricate is the    Hmmm what to make of this... on one side of the coin, this is an absolutely majestic bit of game making with an unparalleled amount of attention to detail. But on the other side, it is horrifically dictated by RNG random events and has the smallest UI text known to mankind; which is bad because this game lives and dies by its' massive amount of menus and sub menus.

    Intricate is the buzzword here. It is a horrid game to try and get into, and a lot of players will turn it off within 30 minutes because not since the likes of X-Com (the old one) has a game been this reliant on literally hundreds of micro options. So it's crucial you get the UI and navigation right - EU4 does and doesn't in equal measure. The menus are strategy gamer porn - but you need a magnifying glass to see them. So it makes the game a pleasure and a chore in equal measure.

    A key part of the game is a stat called Stability, and it is this that is very much in the hands of the RNG gods, as random events pop up at... well, random, to undo your best laid plans. Rather than add to the game an element of dynamism, they serve to by and large annoy.

    You can pore hundreds of hours into this, then look back with satisfaction but also an element of "what the hell did I just do all that for?" It's fun and tedious, compelling yet labour intensive.

    In summary, if you love Civilisation and want an extra challenge (albeit an overstated one; when you get the hang of this, it's positively easy), then EU4 is for you. If you haven't played Civ, consider picking up Civ4 first and getting your feet wet before delving into this, as it's a game where even the tutorial takes pleasure in complicating you.    … Expand
  87. nebz
    Mar 17, 2014
    10
    Wow, just wow! Paradox have really stepped up their game. It took 10 years, but they finally did it! I am a hardcore fan of all the older EU games, but this simply takes it to the next level. The sheer amount of detail and work that went into this game is on a grand scale. Ignore the nostalgia fools comparing it to the earlier games.
  88. Jcourtney
    Mar 18, 2016
    10
    There isn't anything else like this game and the game is still getting support with DLC even years after release. Once of the best Grand Strategy games ever made so far.

    Just buy the DLC on sale.

    10/10
  89. PurpleSpartan
    Oct 26, 2014
    9
    If you're looking for a game that is deep but not impossible, that will entertain you while also keeping your brain cells alive. This may just be that game. This game has hours and hours of gameplay with superb player choices.

    Some games claim to have choices that "alter the game world" or "change the way you play" This game kind of brings that notion in, and multiplies it by 10,000.    If you're looking for a game that is deep but not impossible, that will entertain you while also keeping your brain cells alive. This may just be that game. This game has hours and hours of gameplay with superb player choices.

    Some games claim to have choices that "alter the game world" or "change the way you play" This game kind of brings that notion in, and multiplies it by 10,000. One simple declaration of war without a casus beli can destroy your entire campaign. However one simple promotion of a general can win a war that was probable to end in certain loss. It's a game of logic, and a game of skill, and it's endlessly fun.    … Expand
  90. gracjanski
    Mar 12, 2018
    6
    I dont know, how people can give this game 10/10. For me this means, this game is at least almost perfect and there are only little mistakes. In my view this game has more than just little mistakes.

    First of all, this game is 5 years old and it costs a lot of money (over 200€), because it has countless DLCs. Some of the content should be in the base game, so this politics makes me very    I dont know, how people can give this game 10/10. For me this means, this game is at least almost perfect and there are only little mistakes. In my view this game has more than just little mistakes.

    First of all, this game is 5 years old and it costs a lot of money (over 200€), because it has countless DLCs. Some of the content should be in the base game, so this politics makes me very suspicious. In addition there are 2 DLCs with metal soundtrack, in most of the cases to find out later, that you dont want it...you cant make it more obvious how commercial EU4 is.
    In addition you cant buy everything retail, only on Steam...what I will never do.

    Another big problem with EU4 is the tutorial and manual. After completing them you still dont know the details of the game mechanics, maybe you just know the basics. For a complex game this is unacceptable. You need to research in internet to understand how this game works and you will need a lot of time. It means also you will loose a lot of your life time to be able to enjoy this game, before that you are often searching for informations to solve a problem you have in your campaign.

    The 3rd problem is the boring graphic and presentation of the game. The fun factor is low, this game looks like a visualisation of an excel table. Look at Civilization 4 or 5 how it works. In EU4 there is no intro, no videos at all, nothing special happens, just some texts from time to time, some numbers are changing. And to get that, you need to research in internet for informations like mentioned above...I lost my motivation for that.

    Of course this game has some strengths. The most obvious is the amount of data about history of the world. You get many historical events and missions to play a country more or less like in reality and not only countries from Europe or North America, but also from Asia, Africa and Middle / South America. Perfect.

    The gameplay is very complex, like wrote earlier. So there are many possibilities, many mechanics to discover. We have enough games for the masses, so the more complex games we get, the better.    … Expand
  91. Talex
    Oct 17, 2014
    10
    This game is fantabulous. It outclasses all other strategy games including Total War and Civilization. My first EU, DLC awaits, and I cannot find anything wrong other than the fact that my mouse will break eventually.
  92. PBR-Streetgang
    Nov 18, 2014
    10
    The pinnacle of paradox games and the best strategy game that is out at the moment. If you are a fan of strategy games then you simply must purchase this game.
  93. jblac02
    Nov 28, 2013
    6
    Before I get into my thoughts about the game I'd like to state that this is my 2nd Paradox game after Victoria 2(V2) and my opinions will be biased based on the hundreds of hours I've spent on playing V2. I read alot of glowing reviews before buying EU4 and even more before writing this which makes me feel like they either have very little experience with gs games or they didn't playBefore I get into my thoughts about the game I'd like to state that this is my 2nd Paradox game after Victoria 2(V2) and my opinions will be biased based on the hundreds of hours I've spent on playing V2. I read alot of glowing reviews before buying EU4 and even more before writing this which makes me feel like they either have very little experience with gs games or they didn't play very much before writing the reviews.

    The first thing I read was that a new player could pick any little nation and jump right in with the potential to become a world power; this couldn't be further from the truth. Even after extensive reading and testing(and I'd consider myself a veteran of strategy games), I found it basically impossible to play anything other than a european great power if I wanted to accomplish anything other than sitting there passively building up points for decades at a time. The "monarch points" system is a major design flaw in my eyes and seriously hurts the flow of the game; all of the points are linked to at multiple different uses and really affects your ability to experience control of your nation without giving up other aspects. What this basically means is that if you declare war alot, your navy will fall behind because its linked to diplomatic points while the same idea holds true for administrative points because you have to use it for administrative technology and "ideas" which are basically traits you can pick for your nation plus all the points are linked to different buildings forcing you to pick over another choice. When you compare this to the system in V2, all of these things are on their own point system and aren't shared with other actions meaning research points are strictly for new research and you aren't forced to use them to acquire territory or perform anything else.

    One thing I noticed was that no matter who I played, unless I was playing a great power I could never seem to field more than a tiny army in comparison to some of the enormous million man armies I've fielded in V2. Even playing as spain while being the 1st great power with an enormous empire spanning most of south and north america nearly 70% through the game I had a laughably small army of maybe 120-150k men while barely breaking even and almost all of it was required simply to keep France and its allies at bay leaving little opportunity to attack anyone elsewhere or even to really defend most of my empire. In comparison to V2, I just feel like I'm almost better off not fighting anyone simply because I'm losing points for capturing territory and having different resources from territories means basically nothing since none of the units require anything specific to build. In V2 there are certain provinces that contain extremely valuable resources like rubber and coal which are required for many military units/buildings and it just doesn't feel like there's any real urgency to capture anything in EU4 in comparison.

    Another major issue I have with the game is the huge amount of random events;they are pretty much just there to make your life more difficult; Some of them were just minor nuisances like a bit of lost prestige and some of them were major crippling events like losing tech points or like stability loss during early wars putting my fragile economy negative in an already gold starved game. Buildings are also mostly pointless because of the incredible cost sink and the relatively tiny gains(+0.01 gold per month in most cases) meaning it would take decades or more just for them to pay for the initial investment while random events can cost you even more gold.

    While I really enjoyed the idea of having to explore the "new world" and not knowing what each colony even had to offer this too was flawed because of the goofy colonial design. Because of the way the naval distance works and the fact that you have to use technology points for the idea traits required to colonize, only portugal, spain and possibly france via north west africa(though i haven't tested it) can even attempt to colonize anything until much later in the game. The only way to really colonize is a linear path to brazil(or south into africa) via cape verde or one of 3 unclaimed west african provinces, and because of the distances and locations this either locks most european nations out of the colonial race entirely or until they have enough tech to completely cross the ocean without a bridging colony. While this may hold some historical truth it doesn't make alot of sense in a game that basically encourages you to change what happened historically.

    While I've said alot negative about the game it wasn't my intention to bash the game, just to describe my griefs and it's mostly nitpicking from a strategy game autists PoV. The game is still decent and I especially enjoyed the music, it just could have been so much more given a few mechanical direction changes.    … Expand
  94. some_gamer
    Jan 12, 2014
    7
    This is the first EU game I've played. At first I liked it (once I got past the steep learning curve), but then the flaws started showing- there's way too much randomness in this game which is not bad in itself, the problem is that this randomness has huge, tremendous impact on your game- it can turn it into a boring snooze fest or completely break it depending on what random events youThis is the first EU game I've played. At first I liked it (once I got past the steep learning curve), but then the flaws started showing- there's way too much randomness in this game which is not bad in itself, the problem is that this randomness has huge, tremendous impact on your game- it can turn it into a boring snooze fest or completely break it depending on what random events you get and by random events I mean also the stats of your ruler, whether he dies prematurely and you end up unable to declare wars for a very long time or worse- your heir dies and then your ruler and it can literally mean game over. There are many more examples of why this is all bad design and not fun at all.

    Then you get to the late game, once your nation has reached a certain size it becomes a pain to expand. There are all sorts of terrible mechanics in place to make late game expansion as painful (not difficult, just boring, tedious, repetitive and painful) as possible.

    On the bright side, it's a one of a kind game with huge potential and a must try for every fan of strategy games. It's also very cheap so it's still worth getting IMO despite the flaws I've pointed out earlier. I'll give it a 7 because of good, frequent patches which have straightened some issues and might fix some more in the future.    … Expand
  95. Vespa
    Feb 11, 2014
    8
    EU4 is a grand strategy game that keeps its predecessors model (EU3), with updated graphics and a more enriched feel to a grand strategy game its a joy to play. Each nation can rise to power and fall only to rise again within the same game, something all strategy games should copy. I like the new ideas, and tech system which allows u to upgrade tech then ideas to enhance a nationEU4 is a grand strategy game that keeps its predecessors model (EU3), with updated graphics and a more enriched feel to a grand strategy game its a joy to play. Each nation can rise to power and fall only to rise again within the same game, something all strategy games should copy. I like the new ideas, and tech system which allows u to upgrade tech then ideas to enhance a nation abilities, with a variety of choice, will u be an explorer or a conquer a merchant or an innovator, all is possible. The new diplomatic, military and administrator point system works great forcing u to think about when its time for peace so u can save military points for new military tech or go to war also they affect the construction buildings, they also have to b shared between ur ideas and tech. I found it a delight when they brought out an expansion pack that gave new native American nation and tech ect about time really....
    1 down side is that the AI doesnt really compete over the new world like I would have like, with only 2 - 3 nation really making an effort to colonise it becomes easy to take over the new world. Also I would have liked a more dynamic events system which allows for a nation to activily go though a civil war with regions divided up according to faction within the civil war similar to crusader kings 2 (mayb that will b in the expansion packs). Also colonies dont tend to want independents at all unless ur a complete dick to them. I would have liked random events that allow France to have a revolution at any time during the game or a more aggressive cultural change for the American culture from the English culture ect, in addition it would b nice if it was easier to cause spys to create political problems in other nations (that includes the AI sending spys to cause riots in my regions) as it seems pointless even using spys. That being send its a great game and I look forwards for further updates and expansions.    … Expand
  96. Greywolf2001ca
    Oct 11, 2014
    8
    A much better game than its predecessors. It is better made, the interface is similar but some tweaks have improved it greatly. The game itself is more pleasant to play and does not seem like a job like EU3 or the others, albeit being decent games too. EU4 is far from being as good as Crusader Kings 2 though. There are no family trees and you have no control over the succession of yourA much better game than its predecessors. It is better made, the interface is similar but some tweaks have improved it greatly. The game itself is more pleasant to play and does not seem like a job like EU3 or the others, albeit being decent games too. EU4 is far from being as good as Crusader Kings 2 though. There are no family trees and you have no control over the succession of your monarchs.
    You say, this is going to remove a way to take over a realm... but no, it is much easier to conquer land in EU4 than in Crusader Kings 2, especially if you have a good military or great prestige and reputation.
    I bought it at a huge discount on steam, but I think it worth at least 20$, so if you see it at the price or lower, buy it if you like strategy games. :)    … Expand
  97. domadordepollos
    Apr 18, 2015
    10
    Amazing. Simply amazing. Although it may look awfully difficult at the beginning, once you understand the basics, it will catch you for so much time. It is a complex, indepth strategy game involving politics, religion, trade, army... It is extremely immersive, you´ll become immediately interested in the actual history of the world, and will keep you playing for days even without noticing.Amazing. Simply amazing. Although it may look awfully difficult at the beginning, once you understand the basics, it will catch you for so much time. It is a complex, indepth strategy game involving politics, religion, trade, army... It is extremely immersive, you´ll become immediately interested in the actual history of the world, and will keep you playing for days even without noticing. Ive played so many hours and didnt even finish my first game with Castille. A work of Art. Additionally, I would grab the game with its Art of war expansion. No bad thing about the game except from its early game difficulty. Maybe the soundtrack, although magnificent, may end up being repetitive. But thats why mods exist!

    Maravilloso. Aunque pueda arecer asquerosamente complicado al principio, una vez que captas laa esencia, te atrapara horas y horas. Es un juego de estrategia complejo, incluyendo politica, religion, comercio, ejercito... Es extremadamente inmersivo, y te interesaras por la historia del mundo inmediatamente, y te tendra jugando durante muchisimo tiempo sin siquiera darte cuenta. Ni siquiera he terminado mi primera partida con Castilla y llevo todas estas horas. Una obra maestra. Ademas, recomiendo comprarlo con su DLC El arte de la guerra. Este juego es perfecto excepto por su dificultad al principio. Tal ve la banda sonora, aunque excepcional, se haga algo repetitiva, pero para eso estan los mods!

    +Immersive/Inmersivo
    +Complex/Complejo
    +Extremely long/Extremadamente largo
    +Fun to play!/Divertido!

    -Difficult/Dificil

    "Just....One...More..Turn....."

    SOLID 10/10    … Expand
  98. Gromloks
    Jul 21, 2014
    10
    Eines der hochwertigsten Strategiespiele überhaupt. Benötigt eine längere Einarbeitung, entfaltet sich aber danach zu einem Meisterwerk. Das Spiel bietet hunderte Stunden an Spielspaß und lässt einem viele spielerische Freiheiten. Endlich hat man mal die Chance die Geschichte von einem anderen Blickwinkel aus zu erleben bzw. zu verändern. Unabhängig davon, ob man einen Handelsstaat oderEines der hochwertigsten Strategiespiele überhaupt. Benötigt eine längere Einarbeitung, entfaltet sich aber danach zu einem Meisterwerk. Das Spiel bietet hunderte Stunden an Spielspaß und lässt einem viele spielerische Freiheiten. Endlich hat man mal die Chance die Geschichte von einem anderen Blickwinkel aus zu erleben bzw. zu verändern. Unabhängig davon, ob man einen Handelsstaat oder eine imperialistische Großmacht spielen möchte, jede dieser Spielweisen macht unglaublich viel Spaß. Unbedingte Kaufempfehlung! Einziger Kritikpunkt sind die mangelhaften Übersetzungen vom Englischen ins Deutsche.… Expand
  99. Genosization
    Aug 16, 2014
    10
    This is one of the best strategic game I ever played, in the beginning it is a little hard. I still don't get some of the features, but if you understand the basics of the game, it is a lot of fun. You can never finish the game, there are a lot of playable nations (all the nations) it covers the whole world except for a region of northern Siberia and a part of Alaska. I recommend this gameThis is one of the best strategic game I ever played, in the beginning it is a little hard. I still don't get some of the features, but if you understand the basics of the game, it is a lot of fun. You can never finish the game, there are a lot of playable nations (all the nations) it covers the whole world except for a region of northern Siberia and a part of Alaska. I recommend this game if you love strategic games!… Expand
  100. NJArab
    Aug 16, 2014
    10
    For someone who was expecting a lot of this game I was not disappointed. Paradox massively improved from Eu3 and made Eu4 a game that is different every time you play it. While there are some bugs that still need to be fixed no game is perfect and Paradox released some great DLC for this game. A definite buy for those looking to get into the Grand Strategy genre or already like it.
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best PC Game of 2013
34
#34 Most Discussed PC Game of 2013
1
#1 Most Shared PC Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. DarkStation
    Dec 12, 2013
    80
    Once players overcome the initial learning curve, Europa Universalis IV will prove a memorable strategy experience that provides as much fun stories as it does sheer tactical complexity.
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  2. PC PowerPlay
    Oct 28, 2013
    90
    Somehow retains the series' trademark braininess and complexity while being clearer, simpler and far more fun. [Nov 2013, p.92]
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Oct 24, 2013
    100
    The ultimate strategic simulator of an early modern history state with wide options for both success and failure. Do you want to unite Britain under Scotland, thwart the Spanish Reconquista or maintain the Inca empire? Suit yourself. [Issue#234]
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