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. mac15
    Aug 20, 2014
    9
    There is no feeling of satisfaction such as that of winning a war or successfully creating an empire. Europa Universalis 4 beautifully delivers that satisfaction. Though the first ten or so hours of play time may be frustrating, the game mechanics flow nearly seamlessly once learned. To all those saying it is too complicated or overly complex: EU4 does not pretend to be similar to anyThere is no feeling of satisfaction such as that of winning a war or successfully creating an empire. Europa Universalis 4 beautifully delivers that satisfaction. Though the first ten or so hours of play time may be frustrating, the game mechanics flow nearly seamlessly once learned. To all those saying it is too complicated or overly complex: EU4 does not pretend to be similar to any strategy such as the Civilization Series; it tries to simulate Europe as historically accurate as possible, which, as any history buff will know, is quite complicated.… Expand
  2. Zarc
    Oct 7, 2014
    10
    I made the pope Animist 1000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000090000000000/10
  3. losik
    Feb 13, 2016
    9
    This is everyones favorite empire building/map painting simulator. Developers still release patches & DLCs because people are still playing the game. I guess it is the theme that matters - I feel it is a struggle of different nations, not just a bunch of generic A.I. with some random country name like in Civilization.
  4. Cromwell
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Europa Universalis IV was my first Paradox game ever. I didn't even know the studio before. I had a chance to buy it for a couple of bucks during a Steam Sales.

    Well, after playing more than 230 hours with multiple countries, all I can say is that this is probably one of the best games I have ever played. Really. First, as a person whose hobby is History and Geography, EUIV is    Europa Universalis IV was my first Paradox game ever. I didn't even know the studio before. I had a chance to buy it for a couple of bucks during a Steam Sales.

    Well, after playing more than 230 hours with multiple countries, all I can say is that this is probably one of the best games I have ever played. Really.

    First, as a person whose hobby is History and Geography, EUIV is amazing.

    Even though you are not interested in increasing your knowledge, the gameplay mechanics themselves are worth your time. They are extremely complexe. Mastering them requires at least 30 hours (which is generally, by the way, the maximum gaming time you will get for a 40-70 dollars game ;-) ) and then the game is extremely rewarding, since it requires you to think and to be clever.

    Each game you play is unique : play France twice and you will get very different opportunnities. Imagine the number of possibilities knowing that you can play EVERY country on the map (France, Japan, Hedjaz, Morroco, Incas...) from any date (day, even) from 1444 to 1821. Playing a country during the entire timeline requires aprox. 80-100 hours.

    Even better, Paradox Studios listen their fans and do all they can to enhance the game experience. Even if expansions are released, you do not need them to play and have fun (I have none of them). Especially since some of their features are available freely after release.

    This game is just brilliant. After 230 hours playing, I am far from quitting. I still want to try at least dozens of countries.
    Now I am planning to buy other Paradox games !    … Expand
  5. Paradigms
    Oct 25, 2014
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. Ever felt that Civ was a little too simple? Then welcome to Europa. It's a super complex game with a steep learning curve, but it's well worth it.

    The only downside was the ending year. It felt like there should have been more or that I should have had the option to continue. However, that's forgiveable considering the quality of the game play.
  6. ConjoCesj
    Nov 14, 2014
    10
    Playing Civ V for a while this is my second Paradox game and I gotta say I love it. It takes a few games (on easy mode) to learn all features but than you are hooked. I really like the fact that diplomacy in EU4 is much more advanced than in most strategic games. You can set your own goals and make it as challenging as you like. Thanks Paradox for this gem!

    I hope you all enjoy it!
  7. Heraldofmyself
    Nov 28, 2018
    7
    Still absolutely stoked to see which insta-power buttons the Indonesians will get in the 2019 "expansion".
  8. Zefyres
    Apr 1, 2015
    10
    Amazing strategy game with a huge amount of depth but also with a huge learning curve if you've never played any of the games in this series. This is my first EU game and for the first 50-100 hours I was minimizing every so often to check the wiki and forum explanations to figure out some of the gameplay elements. If this seems intimidating, it should be, because EU4 is just that muchAmazing strategy game with a huge amount of depth but also with a huge learning curve if you've never played any of the games in this series. This is my first EU game and for the first 50-100 hours I was minimizing every so often to check the wiki and forum explanations to figure out some of the gameplay elements. If this seems intimidating, it should be, because EU4 is just that much deeper than most strategy games.

    Technically EU4 is an RTS game but the pace you'll likely be playing it (at least in wars) is more like a turn-based game. AI is very well done and there is a good balance between historical events/progression and open-ended gameplay. I could go into much more detail but probably wouldn't say anything that hasn't been covered in other reviews.

    Much deserved 10/10 but NOT recommended for 'casual' gamers. "Civ 5 for grown ups" is an accurate characterization. In short, if you're looking for a deep strategy game that will make a 5+ hour gaming session disappear in an instant... this is it.    … Expand
  9. Martingus
    May 7, 2015
    10
    First thing... I thought i was a fan of strategy games and had a good picture of what was out there but even though I've played hoi3 for years I just tripped over this game.

    My mind is absolutely blown away by this Masterpiece of a strategy game! With basically every sphere of ruling a nation being webbed together to teach you one or two about national economics and with the    First thing... I thought i was a fan of strategy games and had a good picture of what was out there but even though I've played hoi3 for years I just tripped over this game.

    My mind is absolutely blown away by this Masterpiece of a strategy game!

    With basically every sphere of ruling a nation being webbed together to teach you one or two about national economics and with the groundbreaking feature of working diplomatics (yeah diplomatics work!) this game is unknowingly made to force you into ditching your copies of all total war games and buy this to give your brain a treat!

    Yeah I had to say all that in one sentence.

    Few games would ever deserve a 10/10. Though this game has a few flaws, the magnitude of the cons make those so inferiorly minor that i already forgot all of them.    … Expand
  10. Fibsi
    May 28, 2015
    10
    Since I have it it is my favourite strategy game on Pc. You can Play every Nation in year from 1444 to 1800. You can Play in this game all over the world, but it is very addicting.
  11. Road_Monkey
    Jul 2, 2015
    10
    Schönes Spiel. Muss auch erlich sagen, das mich das Gameplay mehr fesselt als es Civilisation tut. Negativ kann man die DLC Politik betrachten. Unmengen an Geld mit DLC's zu schäffeln ist nicht die feine Art, aber sie lohnen sich... ^^
  12. godunow
    Mar 22, 2016
    9
    Great game. I played this after Crusader Kings 2 and I must say that it offers a simple trade off: get rid of being character-centric (which made CK2 such an amazing experience) for sake of being much more accessible.

    Thats very fair trade off. You get this game and you do not need any other games for the rest of your life :)
  13. Wiebe
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    Europe Universalis as we knew it, but then at its best. Great complex game, remains entertaining, but gets too easy after some time if you know how to game the system.
  14. Harlot
    Nov 17, 2015
    10
    Been for years with Paradox. Raked near 2000 hours in this game and the constant updates and punishingly hard achievements mixed with an awesome community keep me coming back. For fans or real complex grand strategies or those that feel the need to challenge themselves (I mean really challenge) or even for people who just love history and want to live it or flip it on its head it's a must have :).
  15. Cree26
    Aug 18, 2020
    10
    What can I say, this is my fave game of all time. If you have any interest in playing a game where you can change the outcome of history, well, this it it. I would never have thought something could ever replace the Total War series as my go to historical sim/ fantasy generator.

    Sure the learning curve is a bit steep, but nothing like EU 2 or 3. So rich and detailed, so rewarding.
  16. Voyou
    May 25, 2021
    0
    Game is text-heavy, as you would expect. Yet game doesn't offer any means to increase text size until it becomes readable. That basic failure requires so low an intelligence that you would wonder why the game maker even tried to make a strategy game. Anyway, it cannot physically be played, so the intrinsic value of the software is simply zero.
  17. marcantoineg
    May 13, 2018
    3
    3 words : Paradox dlc whoring. As usual this game is empty without the numerous tiny dlcs paradox spews over the years.
  18. Lich_Master
    Jan 8, 2016
    9
    Really good game.
    -1 point for DLC milking policy, and fact that game was stripped BARE at release (+ Paradox has no quality control on their games, so DLCs were buggy as hell).
    Buy basic game, then wait for DLC sale (prices are ridiculus)
  19. mmyers94028
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    This game has kept me addicted for months. I have racked up around 200 hours of playtime so far and have not regretted a minute. This game is fairly complicated to learn, but once the basics have been mastered, it is incredible. Not only is it fun, but it often follows history so well that it is incredibly interesting as well. Definitely worth it to buy
  20. longuigon
    Feb 12, 2019
    7
    I am impressed with Paradox's work. A complex game that makes you learn something new about it every time you play it. It may take hundreds of hours of gameplay to master the harder difficulties.
  21. darkduckkk
    Nov 4, 2021
    10
    Definitely is not a game for everybody especially if you are not dedicating yourself to this game. But if you learn it once, boy what an experience is that. Every tiny country in this game is playable and this literally means that we have hundreds or even thousands of different scenario that we can play with. Almost each region has its own game mechanics and mission trees. So this enrichesDefinitely is not a game for everybody especially if you are not dedicating yourself to this game. But if you learn it once, boy what an experience is that. Every tiny country in this game is playable and this literally means that we have hundreds or even thousands of different scenario that we can play with. Almost each region has its own game mechanics and mission trees. So this enriches the game play even more. And i am writing this comment from 2021, this game is still state of the art in its kind.… Expand
  22. vvmax
    Jan 29, 2019
    7
    This game is good and has potential, but many of the features baffle my head. I love the idea of colonialism in Grand Strategy Games, but most of the games that use the mechanic add too much to the idea, making it way to confusing. Overall, EU4 is a game with great potential and a great battle system, but many mechanics make it confusing.
  23. Spartan91
    Nov 29, 2018
    5
    This game is a huge meh, and definitely the WORST paradox game I've played. Compared to HoI and Crusader Kings this is just awful. Mostly boring and trying to give the impression that there's actually a lot of options, while having very little actual substance. In the end the whole thing still feels unfinished and lazy.
    It really doesn't help that just like so many other games it still    This game is a huge meh, and definitely the WORST paradox game I've played. Compared to HoI and Crusader Kings this is just awful. Mostly boring and trying to give the impression that there's actually a lot of options, while having very little actual substance. In the end the whole thing still feels unfinished and lazy.
    It really doesn't help that just like so many other games it still basically boils down to fighting wars, therefore battles, which like so many other games just comes down to luck. Although this is especially lazy by just determining it through literal dice rolls which it shows you    … Expand
  24. RagingPoet
    Aug 6, 2018
    9
    Europa Universalis 4 is absolutely gigantic strategy game and it hits the balance between depth and accessibility just right.
  25. tima26tl
    Dec 3, 2019
    8
    Europa Universalis is one of the most re-playable games that you can find. You can play for Any country from 1440-1821 period. Compare to the previous game it became much more diverse and detailed. All big nations feel unique thanks to the tree of missions and special mechanics. For the person who wants to start to play this game for the first time it will seem too complex, and most peopleEuropa Universalis is one of the most re-playable games that you can find. You can play for Any country from 1440-1821 period. Compare to the previous game it became much more diverse and detailed. All big nations feel unique thanks to the tree of missions and special mechanics. For the person who wants to start to play this game for the first time it will seem too complex, and most people will quit after few hours. It is a common problem for almost all Paradox games. Therefore, when you get into it will become one of your favourite strategy games.

    Strategy Element- 5/5 From the first moment you get a full control of your country. You control micro and macro econ, you have control over foreign policy, control over army...

    Re-playable element-2/2 As I said you can play for any country and as soon as you finish playing for one of them you would want to start playing for the new one.

    Multiplayer-0/1 Unfortunately it is almost impossible to play multiplayer. Me and my friends tried to play together but we couldn't play even at speed 4 out 5( speed of time). Our best result was speed 3, in the end we gave up since it would take us ages to finish the party.

    DLC-0/1 generally most of DLC are good and add interesting mechanics, but the problem is that there is more then 10+ DLC for which you need to pay 50+ dollars in total.

    Music-1/1 It is OK, a beat repetitive, I liked more the one in Stellaris    … Expand
  26. Naruto78909
    Apr 2, 2018
    10
    This is the more advanced version of civ you can make your own countries once you get the el dorado dlc this and cities are the best paradox games the game traces back history to 2 ad once you get the extended timline this game can bascally played infinity and you still have stuff to do
  27. WCM320
    Feb 6, 2021
    7
    It's a fantastic game, but its also a game were your either goingt o like it or your not.
  28. DarkBee
    Apr 5, 2018
    10
    "Europe 4" - the same tool for conducting historical experiments, like its predecessor seven years ago. On our conscience is the fate of an individual state taken. We are free to control it as we please: build up the royal army and fight with its neighbors on the mainland, create a whole state of merchants and subdue trade to ourselves, find the New World and appropriate its wealth ... but"Europe 4" - the same tool for conducting historical experiments, like its predecessor seven years ago. On our conscience is the fate of an individual state taken. We are free to control it as we please: build up the royal army and fight with its neighbors on the mainland, create a whole state of merchants and subdue trade to ourselves, find the New World and appropriate its wealth ... but what's that? Game tools quite accurately simulate domestic and foreign policy. Take the indicator of stability: the higher it is, the greater the tax collected, the risk of rebellion is less - the light is brighter and it is easier to breathe. Will leave in a minus - welcome to tartarary! And there is inflation and likes to become hyperinflation, if you are lucky at gold deposits. And also - all kinds of indicators of the economy, trade, fatigue from war, contentment and discontent, military and naval traditions - and everything should be looked at, without forgetting the plan in case of force majeure. Well, the war, of course. Here, war is a special case of diplomacy, not a daily bread, like anywhere in Total War, and not a thorn in the ass like in Civilization V. War can only be useful for its initiator and for those who were ready for it and found her application. Somehow - shake out the money from old enemies to pay off their debts on credit, or force the defeated to release a few small nations who are sure to want to be friends with us. The war is not welcome here. The seizure of provinces or even complete annexation is possible only if the enemy has a small area, and you have a monstrous preponderance in the armed forces. At the same time, the aggressiveness index of the initiating power will soar to the ceiling, which will be bad for the opinion of the surrounding countries. Believe me, they will remember your aggressive appetites and will do anything to prevent new victims. Therefore, it is necessary to fight war carefully, looking at the public and spending.… Expand
  29. sodomo
    May 29, 2018
    10
    I know this not a new game but it is forme, so i like so much the game than i created my account here only to put 10 for this game and make my contribution from him.
    I was a gamer more when i was more young and i realy love this game make me fell i have 17 again and make mi fink only in this game all the day.
    So i want to say thanks a lot to make him. About the game i just want to say    I know this not a new game but it is forme, so i like so much the game than i created my account here only to put 10 for this game and make my contribution from him.
    I was a gamer more when i was more young and i realy love this game make me fell i have 17 again and make mi fink only in this game all the day.
    So i want to say thanks a lot to make him.
    About the game i just want to say is not easy game but learn him make the all the diference and is reward because is change all your oppnion about him. Have pacience padwan and you make there.    … Expand
  30. toxyk
    Jan 14, 2019
    10
    Probablemente el mejor juego de grand strategy de la historia, con todos los dlc es enfermizo. Mejora aun mas jugando online
  31. Jyadaus
    Dec 14, 2022
    0
    fix the sieges. they took mountain level 2 fort at %14 and i took grassland level 1 fort at %35. this is **** stupid.

    i forgot to mention the stupidty of ai. **** idiots
  32. Vim88pl
    Dec 16, 2018
    4
    I have decided to give this game negative review, because too many pieces which should have been in base game, are in DLC. Transforming your country into Empire, designating a March, increasing development, are few example, which in base game wondered how it can be done and checked online only to learn, that it is in DLC. And it is not one or two DLC, or some cheap DLC, but expensive DLCs.I have decided to give this game negative review, because too many pieces which should have been in base game, are in DLC. Transforming your country into Empire, designating a March, increasing development, are few example, which in base game wondered how it can be done and checked online only to learn, that it is in DLC. And it is not one or two DLC, or some cheap DLC, but expensive DLCs. Secondly, new updates regularly are ruining my saves… Expand
  33. Leviax
    Nov 22, 2018
    9
    Интеречная игра со своими фишками. Игра очень сильно затягивает. Рекомендую к покупке!
  34. XBliss
    Oct 8, 2019
    10
    great strategy that has captured me for many years. And still developers adding in the game content in the form of patches and dlc
  35. Skogen21
    Oct 30, 2022
    10
    EU4 is an incredible strategy game from Paradox interactive. The most accurate description is probably "a sandbox of alternative history taking place in the Modern Age" (from the fall of Constantinople to the end of the Napoleonic Wars). You can choose any existing country from around the world and lead them in your preferred direction. Establish powerful alliances, conquer newEU4 is an incredible strategy game from Paradox interactive. The most accurate description is probably "a sandbox of alternative history taking place in the Modern Age" (from the fall of Constantinople to the end of the Napoleonic Wars). You can choose any existing country from around the world and lead them in your preferred direction. Establish powerful alliances, conquer new territories, colonize unknown areas, trade with precious commodities, become a pirate state, play politics in HRE and many others. For me personally, this is an essential game that has had a strong impact on me, one of the best I've played in my life. That's why I rate it 10/10.… Expand
  36. hknyrbkn
    Oct 16, 2019
    9
    I never expected to like a grand strategy game. I always thought I'd be bored on a game that runs on maps. I was wrong. I spent way too many hours on trying to colonize Brazil as Venice and conquering Manchuria as Japan.
    The only criticism would be that it is too eurocentric. All mechanism is built with European dynamics in mind, so whichever state you choose to play feels more or less    I never expected to like a grand strategy game. I always thought I'd be bored on a game that runs on maps. I was wrong. I spent way too many hours on trying to colonize Brazil as Venice and conquering Manchuria as Japan.
    The only criticism would be that it is too eurocentric. All mechanism is built with European dynamics in mind, so whichever state you choose to play feels more or less like a European state with minor touches. But after all the game's title is Europa Universalis and Paradox is a European developer. Who can blame them for designing a game just for their Western audiences?    … Expand
  37. Vanco
    Jun 4, 2019
    9
    With all DLC included this becomes one of the best grand strategy game ever made.
  38. CountCristo
    Jul 19, 2019
    10
    Simply the best game every made. Incredibly deep with endless replayability, constant free updates and support.
  39. halby
    Aug 6, 2019
    10
    I've played over 5000 hours of this game. It's easily the best game ever made, and probably will still hold that title until I die. The key to longevity is a good AI, the key to a good AI is a game with SIMPLE mechanics, but LOTS of them, so that the challenge comes from balancing the interactions between all of the many systems... but each system it's self is simple enough for an ai toI've played over 5000 hours of this game. It's easily the best game ever made, and probably will still hold that title until I die. The key to longevity is a good AI, the key to a good AI is a game with SIMPLE mechanics, but LOTS of them, so that the challenge comes from balancing the interactions between all of the many systems... but each system it's self is simple enough for an ai to do correctly. This inevitably means the game is very hard to 'get into' ... because in order to even be competent you need to learn dozens of systems and how they interact. But stick with it.… Expand
  40. Thunfish
    Sep 28, 2019
    8
    EU IV is a fantastic game but with a massive caveat that really hurts the game. In itself, it's a pretty fun game that allows you to take any nation in the world somewhere before the start of World Exploration all the way to the French Revolution and basically turn them into a superpower. Even if you're not playing the game, you can just sit back and watch the AI spin the world in allEU IV is a fantastic game but with a massive caveat that really hurts the game. In itself, it's a pretty fun game that allows you to take any nation in the world somewhere before the start of World Exploration all the way to the French Revolution and basically turn them into a superpower. Even if you're not playing the game, you can just sit back and watch the AI spin the world in all sorts of ways. The only real downside (and why I'm not giving this a 10) have to be the DLCs.

    Don't get me wrong, Paradox still updates the game and the DLCs do keep the game alive as well but they can be pretty expensive at times, which really hurts the game, as some of those DLCs are actually pretty important for the game to be... well, properly playable. Still, a blast to play nonetheless, but this does become a bit of an issue pretty often.    … Expand
  41. YukineUchimaki
    Nov 8, 2019
    6
    Tanto Europa universalis como Crusaders kings II son juegos que me gustan mucho, Pero la politica de Dlc's de Paradox es muy fuerte y eso jode mucho la experiencia de jugalabilidad.
  42. I_love_ps4
    Apr 9, 2020
    9
    Very interesting game with interesting mechanics. But dlc.... it is very expensive
  43. tejajo
    Feb 6, 2020
    10
    2500 hours in this prefect game...
    Difficult for beginners,but after learning its starts being very entertaining game
  44. xBooth
    Feb 23, 2020
    9
    I'm at about 1,300 hours currently... One point knocked off for expansion/dlc practices.
  45. CowboyNuggets
    Feb 26, 2020
    10
    This game is extremely deep and complex with a steep learning curve. But as you begin to learn the intricacies of the game it only keeps getting better and better!
  46. Hiro016
    Sep 2, 2023
    1
    SAPORRA LANÇOU A 10 ANOS ATRÁS E AINDA FAZEM DLCS,FAÇAM UMA CONTINUAÇÃO LOGO ENTÃO PORRRR
  47. Smint
    Mar 31, 2020
    9
    I played this game over 800 hours by now and i have to say im not bored by now, if you are searching a game that will last you you are perfectly right with this one, but the dlc politics is like a bad joke, so expansive for basicly no content or content that should be in the main game by default.
    But even with that i cant rate this game bad because its that good.
    Probably the go to for    I played this game over 800 hours by now and i have to say im not bored by now, if you are searching a game that will last you you are perfectly right with this one, but the dlc politics is like a bad joke, so expansive for basicly no content or content that should be in the main game by default.
    But even with that i cant rate this game bad because its that good.
    Probably the go to for every Grand strategy player.    … Expand
  48. osmanlis
    Mar 15, 2022
    10
    It's a great game that I couldn't get up from for hours. The pinnacle of strategy games.
  49. Wrathzo
    Mar 21, 2022
    7
    Europa Universalis IV is a grand strategy video game in the Europa Universalis series, developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive as a sequel to Europa Universalis III (2007). It is a strategy game where players can control a nation from the Late Middle Ages through the early modern period (1444 to 1821 AD), conducting trade, administration, diplomacy,Europa Universalis IV is a grand strategy video game in the Europa Universalis series, developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive as a sequel to Europa Universalis III (2007). It is a strategy game where players can control a nation from the Late Middle Ages through the early modern period (1444 to 1821 AD), conducting trade, administration, diplomacy, colonization and warfare.… Expand
  50. mconsultingprep
    Apr 24, 2020
    9
    Positives: quite a lot of depth, great mods (community mods are the reason I still play the game to this day), learning curve is not too steep, which is great for someone new to grand strategy.

    Negatives: great powers would steamroll across the map, so if you want to roleplay history, it might get a little bit tricky.
  51. Alikhan230
    May 16, 2020
    10
    Данная игра - это стандартная игра Paradox. И как все другие игры этого разработчика, она прекрасна. Много параметров. Большую часть событий и битв можно просчитать. Это является главным плюсом. Эта игра является одной из самых стратегических игр.Данная игра - это стандартная игра Paradox. И как все другие игры этого разработчика, она прекрасна. Много параметров. Большую часть событий и битв можно просчитать. Это является главным плюсом. Эта игра является одной из самых стратегических игр.
  52. ViktorKrakov
    Jul 4, 2020
    10
    Amazing game, endlessly replayable. Can be very frustrating sometimes but always fair and often extremely satisfying once you achieve your goals. The best sandbox for playing empire.
  53. hileger
    Oct 19, 2022
    9
    Игра топ Игра топ Игра топ Игра топ Игра топ Игра топ Игра топ Игра топ
  54. OMERTNOCL
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    AMAZİNG AMAZİNG Amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing amazing
  55. YigidOx2
    Feb 12, 2021
    8
    Paradox Interactive is already the god of strategy games. EU4 is a bit of a complicated game. But the playing time is very long. One of the best strategy games.
  56. Pumpk1n_
    Jun 28, 2020
    9
    After years of development and many DLCs, this game is now an impressive work that could simulate the history and country managing.

    There are so many contents to the game that the learning curve would be steep, the game also had late game problems like other Paradox games. However apart from these flaws, the whole system is great and worth spend time playing.
  57. Bad_Reviewer
    Jan 4, 2022
    5
    The game feels so empty without $300-$400 of DLC. The game has fun nation RP but it will cost you $400. I like the game but it needs to add the DLC to the base game.
  58. xxBat
    Jun 29, 2020
    0
    I'm gonna start off with saying that this game (without taking the DLC policy into account) is a masterpiece! It's a bunch of fun with friends, but make sure that you play with people that don't get too mad at you for betraying them, because the multiplayer side of the game is the most fun I've ever had in a game. It includes everything you need for a truly fun and immersive grand strategyI'm gonna start off with saying that this game (without taking the DLC policy into account) is a masterpiece! It's a bunch of fun with friends, but make sure that you play with people that don't get too mad at you for betraying them, because the multiplayer side of the game is the most fun I've ever had in a game. It includes everything you need for a truly fun and immersive grand strategy experience. The main downside of the game is the DLC policy which truly is a stain on this game's legacy, as of now it costs you hundreds of euro/dollars to get all the DLC without a sale, which I would strongly advise against, personally, I got all the DLC on Humble Bundle, you should wait for a sale and then buy the game with the DLC. Or you can buy the game, then see if you enjoy it and if yes, come back when there's a sale and buy the DLC. But the upside is that if you have a friend/host who has all DLC, for the duration of the multiplayer session, all of the host's DLC will be activated for all players. I would heavily advise any Grand Strategy/History enthusiast looking for a fun game, spanning from 1444 to 1821 to choose Europa Universalis IV!… Expand
  59. Kn0blauch
    Jul 20, 2020
    9
    This is the video game I've spent the most time on. You need a lot of time to learn and master it, but once you do, it's so addictive, especially if you're a history nerd. Replayability value of this game is huge. There are many positive things I'd say about this game, but also one negative: its DLC policy. I understand they need money and DLCs are not bad idea, but it's really shamefulThis is the video game I've spent the most time on. You need a lot of time to learn and master it, but once you do, it's so addictive, especially if you're a history nerd. Replayability value of this game is huge. There are many positive things I'd say about this game, but also one negative: its DLC policy. I understand they need money and DLCs are not bad idea, but it's really shameful how are they doing it. Some DLCs have very irrelevant stuff and are not worth the price, while some other DLCs include some mechanics that are pretty essential and should've been in the base game. Also the number of main DLCs is too big, there are 15 of them in July 2020, I think. That's really too many.… Expand
  60. Indywidualista
    Jul 29, 2020
    10
    If you like long play strategy with impressive modes, this game is for you.
  61. HusoBabush
    Dec 17, 2020
    7
    Good strategy game which supported with DLCs but has too much bug and unbalanced stuff
  62. apokalipto
    Aug 11, 2023
    9
    Very good game. I enjoyed playing this game a lot. I strongly recommend this.
  63. m1blasze
    Nov 4, 2020
    10
    This is one of the best strategy games that I have ever seen. Europa Universalis IV has a vast and complex political/economic mechanic, with lots of things to explore throughout the campaign. Its political mechanic may be very hard to understand in the beginning of the game, with very different government types, religions, cultures, estates, etc. But when you understand these mechanics,This is one of the best strategy games that I have ever seen. Europa Universalis IV has a vast and complex political/economic mechanic, with lots of things to explore throughout the campaign. Its political mechanic may be very hard to understand in the beginning of the game, with very different government types, religions, cultures, estates, etc. But when you understand these mechanics, you are able to play a very long and fun campaign, with colonization, revolutions, revolts, bribery, and hundreds of others events available in the game. 10/10.

    Ernesto Baratheon    … Expand
  64. Venator007
    Dec 12, 2020
    9
    So many possibilities. Perfect strategy game. Europa universalis series always provides good entertainment.
  65. Torgall
    Dec 12, 2020
    9
    Excellent strategy that I keep returning to. My biggest complaint is Paradox business model that revolves around introducing small patch-like changes, calling them expansions. Many changes are basically things that should be from the day 1, or fixes to overall balance they ruined with previous "expansions". If you count all the little expenses for the important expansions and the gameExcellent strategy that I keep returning to. My biggest complaint is Paradox business model that revolves around introducing small patch-like changes, calling them expansions. Many changes are basically things that should be from the day 1, or fixes to overall balance they ruined with previous "expansions". If you count all the little expenses for the important expansions and the game itself, it's insane cost that Eu4 put up with because they are really passionate about it.… Expand
  66. Wiesmak
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    This is the best strategy game, I've ever played. With 75% of the DLC's you can play thousands of ours without feeling bored. It is perfect
  67. JanuszekPLY
    Sep 8, 2021
    8
    Very great game. I really appreciate my amatour 500h in game. I had and i will have so much fun with my friends playing ths. I like strategic games from Paradox. And even that i still cant normally exit to main menu bc of popup and playing without dlcs is mess that still. i like this game
  68. P_O_R_G
    Dec 17, 2020
    10
    Эта игра прекрасна сама по себе, так как аналогов ей не найти. Многие плохие отзывы говорят о ужасном балансе, но во-первых это история, а в ней были и сильные и слабые, а второе это возможность из слабых сделать сильных.
  69. HansSigmaringen
    Dec 30, 2020
    10
    Best game ever made at strategy I suggest you play with Voltaire's Nightmare mod Its amazing.
  70. KR777
    Jan 6, 2021
    10
    A Masterpiece! A game with countless opportunities form strategy RTS to national RPG to history simulator, it spans a wide array of tates and play styles. The replayability is immense, the music superb - the only real downside is that it becomes harder for the developers to think of something deserving to be added via DLC.
  71. Frost_Cube
    Feb 1, 2021
    6
    It may be a good game however there is one critical flaw. The text in the game (and this is a text heavy game!) is difficult to read at a resolution of 1900x1200 (native monitor resolution).
  72. Nikitosss95
    Feb 13, 2021
    10
    This is kind of a game you play for years and never get tired of... I am speechless how good EU4 is!! Playing as any nation in the world you attempt to conquer it through military expansion, diplomacy, carefully planned strategy, missions etc... for those who are new to the eu4, don’t give up, keep learning until you grasp the entire complexity of this game and you won’t ever regret! It’sThis is kind of a game you play for years and never get tired of... I am speechless how good EU4 is!! Playing as any nation in the world you attempt to conquer it through military expansion, diplomacy, carefully planned strategy, missions etc... for those who are new to the eu4, don’t give up, keep learning until you grasp the entire complexity of this game and you won’t ever regret! It’s addictive!… Expand
  73. kitru
    May 23, 2021
    8
    Отличная стратежка, с друзьями позависать самое то, из-за относительно понятного большинству временного промежутка игры ( до первой мировой ), где мы наблюдаем уже знакомые нам Польшу, Пруссию, Османов, каждый найдет себе страну по душе. Как только поиграл за все страны и испробовал все страты - забрасываешь (у меня ушло на это 500+ часов).Отличная стратежка, с друзьями позависать самое то, из-за относительно понятного большинству временного промежутка игры ( до первой мировой ), где мы наблюдаем уже знакомые нам Польшу, Пруссию, Османов, каждый найдет себе страну по душе. Как только поиграл за все страны и испробовал все страты - забрасываешь (у меня ушло на это 500+ часов).
  74. KevLooney
    Feb 28, 2021
    7
    The game is too inaccessible to get a higher rating. I got bored because I didn't know up from down. It would be a 9/10 if I didn't get bored first.
  75. fusuy127
    Mar 22, 2021
    10
    I don't have much to say. I played it over 2000 hours and i don't regret a little bit.
  76. RapidSpeed
    Mar 24, 2021
    10
    Once you start, the game might be very difficult. But when you've been playing it for a while you begin to master it. You're either addicted to it or find it boring, no other exception. I actually prefer EU4 over HOI (and yes, I've played both.)
  77. SweatingBucket0
    Apr 24, 2021
    9
    Europa Universalis IV is the pinnacle of Paradox Interactive games, with plenty of content in the areas of diplomacy, trade, warfare, estates, etc.
    Pros:
    - Rich in content - Freedom of the player to choose his personal objective - Mechanics unique to certain realities such as the Holy Roman Empire or the Ming Empire - The Extended Timeline Mod, which allows you to play from the year    Europa Universalis IV is the pinnacle of Paradox Interactive games, with plenty of content in the areas of diplomacy, trade, warfare, estates, etc.
    Pros:
    - Rich in content
    - Freedom of the player to choose his personal objective
    - Mechanics unique to certain realities such as the Holy Roman Empire or the Ming Empire
    - The Extended Timeline Mod, which allows you to play from the year 58 to the modern world
    - Saves are convertible with other Paradox games
    Flaws:
    - Downloadable content policy is anti-novelty
    - Artificial Intelligence can be annoying
    - Multiplayer needs some work    … Expand
  78. Yaav13
    May 9, 2022
    7
    My truthful honorable incorruptible conclusive rating of this considered game: 7.
  79. dainii
    Oct 5, 2021
    1
    The game could be fun but it's unstable and it runs with shutter at x1920 64gb ram and 3080. It's hilarious but after it crashed my pc for the second time I stopped laughing. The gameplay is tottaly random, meh.
  80. StarkAgentos
    Jul 26, 2022
    10
    Прошёл игру за 3 часа, играя за Португалию, захватив пол Европы и каким-то образом слившись. Очень крутая политическая стратегия в довольно оригинальной временной эпохе.
  81. Rnoviok
    Dec 4, 2021
    6
    in my opinion one of the most difficult games i have ever played with high entry threshold

    and with thousands of dlc's .......
  82. Sweet_paco
    Dec 11, 2021
    10
    This game is an absolute masterpiece, of you like strategy games and you re a bit curious abaout history, you should play it, its so inmersive and addicting, they might get hard sometimes but here s the point of the game, this is not a meme, the game is difficult as hell, specially when you start to play it
  83. krasnysoldat38
    Mar 22, 2022
    10
    Spent hundreds of hours on this game. The game is simply fantastic and never gets boring.
    The possibilities are limitless on how you want to approach and build your empire.
    DLCs are expensive and are worth getting once on sale. That's the only issue with the game. They really do improve the game mechanics and make it way more interesting. You may also learn a lot of history from the    Spent hundreds of hours on this game. The game is simply fantastic and never gets boring.
    The possibilities are limitless on how you want to approach and build your empire.

    DLCs are expensive and are worth getting once on sale. That's the only issue with the game. They really do improve the game mechanics and make it way more interesting.

    You may also learn a lot of history from the 15th century and beyond. Well done Paradox.    … Expand
  84. Jackie_Jackson
    May 26, 2022
    8
    Всё очень просто как играть в эту игру почему все говорят про высокий порог вхождения если ты заходишь за Францию и можно сразу сдаться?
  85. Ulgen01
    Jul 1, 2022
    10
    Best strategy game ever because everything is so detailed and there is too many countries you can play
  86. jacybfb
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    One of the best games ever. Replayble. Enjoable. Millions od possibilities.
  87. dr-kenobi
    Sep 7, 2022
    9
    CK2, тільки замість династій повноцінні країни. Ідеальна алтернатива, коли набридають Крусейдери. Парадокс добре постарався не повторювати все, тому Європа грається зовсім по іншому, ніж CK.
  88. Marube
    Oct 12, 2022
    8
    It's a great game if you like history and strategy games. It really makes you feeeeel like a 15th century tyrant. The dlc system is very rough, many dlcs completely change the way you play the game, and there is like 30 of them. I dont think that you should lock whole core game mechanics ander such a paywall.
  89. donatodo
    Dec 27, 2022
    8
    As the name suggests, the game is very euro-centric. They don't do a good job with Eastern concepts. For example, Buddhism is a dharmic religion, which should be categorized under Hinduism and Sikhism. As someone not from Europe, the game gets boring very quickly.
  90. coso132
    Oct 16, 2022
    9
    If you are able to overlook the terrible wallet draining marketing practices (even in less legal ways if youre into that) this is the best paradox grand strategy experience, the most complete, with the most content, and simply the most fun for the most time.
  91. Crimson9
    Dec 21, 2022
    4
    Probably the worst of the main Paradox games. This is basically a map painter. As a game it does have some tactical considerations and is more complex than risk, but not nearly as much as a game like HOI4. As a simulator it is total nonsense.
  92. HeitorCampos
    Mar 13, 2023
    7
    It´s fine, you need most if not all dlcs to have fun with it. But it is a good game, even if some mechanics are bad.
  93. thethethe4
    Jul 25, 2023
    9
    EU4 is a great game, it is the perfect historical sandbox that gives you the ability to do basically what ever you want. You can play as any nation, and have fund regardless of that fact that the non-European nations aren’t as flushed out as their counterparts. If you want a more structured experience there are missions trees for some of the nations that gives you the opportunity to have aEU4 is a great game, it is the perfect historical sandbox that gives you the ability to do basically what ever you want. You can play as any nation, and have fund regardless of that fact that the non-European nations aren’t as flushed out as their counterparts. If you want a more structured experience there are missions trees for some of the nations that gives you the opportunity to have a historical game if you want. The game also revives regular updates even to this day, however to actually experience the updates in their entirety you have to pay. This is the only negative to the game and it's that the DLCs are really expensive, though it's not fair to expect all the content for free since they are putting time and resources into developing the DLCs it is fair to expect some of the really basic features for free instead of forcing you to pay. Despite that drawback EU4 is still a good game that is worth purchasing.… Expand
  94. TheTruthFromTed
    Jun 19, 2023
    4
    The game itself is actually quite good, I just can't recommend this game because the poor excuses of devs have locked a cr*p load of essential features behind several paywalls which makes around half the factions and thus game unplayable. if your willing to invest triple the amound of the base game on dlc's go ahead. Otherwise don't bother.
  95. OniGioRi
    Sep 7, 2023
    7
    Score: 7/10

    Europa Univeralis IV is an awesome game for people who enjoy playing history/strategy games. While I don't really play strategy games this game still managed to have me invested for couple hours. It has a huge variety of playing styles which can easily entertain you for many hours.
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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

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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]
See all critic reviews »