Hearts of Iron IV

 PC
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 968 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 688 out of 968
  2. Mixed: 149 out of 968
  3. Negative: 131 out of 968

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  1. VitaminK
    Jun 8, 2016
    10
    I love strategy games and HoI is a series I've tried over and over to get into but always found very difficult to get the full grasp of managing. HoI IV broke that tradition while still keeping the depth the series is known for while making it much easier to approach for old and new players alike. Paradox definitely did it right this time. I can't wait to see what the modding communityI love strategy games and HoI is a series I've tried over and over to get into but always found very difficult to get the full grasp of managing. HoI IV broke that tradition while still keeping the depth the series is known for while making it much easier to approach for old and new players alike. Paradox definitely did it right this time. I can't wait to see what the modding community will do with this as well as future dlc/expansions from the Devs.

    If you like strategy/grand strat then do yourself a favor and get this game. $40 at RELEASE for a game worth much more.

    I look forward to hours and hour in this game.    … Expand
  2. Killen
    Jun 10, 2016
    10
    Многие считали ДП3 не играбельной частью серии и предпочитали Darkest Hour. В эту игру хочется играть и играть - остановиться очень тяжело. Она просто бесподобна! Самая нормальная игра про ВМВ! Лучшая стратегия 2016 года.
    *ушёл чертить карты*    Многие считали ДП3 не играбельной частью серии и предпочитали Darkest Hour. В эту игру хочется играть и играть - остановиться очень тяжело. Она просто бесподобна! Самая нормальная игра про ВМВ! Лучшая стратегия 2016 года.
    *ушёл чертить карты*
  3. Gesar
    Jun 6, 2016
    10
    The best strategy which came ever on pc!!! Clear interface, a lot of changes, beautiful graphics. Perfect for long hours. And, of course, co-op, pvp, pve
  4. TheOsiris
    Jul 7, 2016
    10
    Up front I have to say that I have never played HOI III. But I'm an die hard CK II fan, EU was good but too linear, and Stellaris will be brilliant in a year, but I still enjoy it.

    I have to say this is a good game. This is also the first iteration of the IV release, and there are some things that will be improved. But overall it's an engaging and fund, occasionally slow experience. If    Up front I have to say that I have never played HOI III. But I'm an die hard CK II fan, EU was good but too linear, and Stellaris will be brilliant in a year, but I still enjoy it.

    I have to say this is a good game. This is also the first iteration of the IV release, and there are some things that will be improved. But overall it's an engaging and fund, occasionally slow experience. If you've never played HOI before. You'll be happy if you enjoy deep grand strategy games. With time this only get better.

    There is a bit of a loud minority who are also being very vocal, understandably die hard fans that each have there own vision of what the game should have been. I think they're being unfair.

    And screw the people saying they can't take a 1 month holiday after a very long development project spanning multiple years comes to fruition. Come on. Let them have their month. They'll come back with fresh eyes and restored hearts.    … Expand
  5. RiccD
    Jun 7, 2016
    10
    Had some hours yesterday. Just wanted to DL and see if I can figure out some things. Ended up late in the night with "WTF why is it so late already" :)

    Love: - Trade is so much less annoying than in Hoi III - the focus tree - division planner - Spanish Civil war (was pretty tough) - Industrial part - Political Power thing - add supporters and stuff Undecided: - The Border    Had some hours yesterday. Just wanted to DL and see if I can figure out some things. Ended up late in the night with "WTF why is it so late already" :)

    Love:

    - Trade is so much less annoying than in Hoi III
    - the focus tree
    - division planner
    - Spanish Civil war (was pretty tough)
    - Industrial part
    - Political Power thing - add supporters and stuff

    Undecided:

    - The Border / Plan klicky thing. I fail by fiddling around with that very often. Maybe I have to get used to it / maybe patches will improve this part ( If I attach an army to a border and add a Div. later - why do I have to order this division to this border?)
    - Tech trees. Still am undecided about that.
    - In combat I am usually the more microing type. So I do not know if I like the battle plans yet (Missing the bonus). Maybe I will continue microing the Mobile Divs and leave the foot inf to the battle planner.

    Not so good:

    - AI did strange things in the civil war. (Just walked around long time with inf div, not doing anything. )
    - if I change directions from an attack with a fully organized tank div. and run in an enemy Inf div with 5% Org that takes the province I am moving to a second before I arrive I really lose this tank Div as "Overrun" ??? Seriously?
    Summary:

    Great game that makes already lots of fun. Will get better with the next few patches, I am sure. Also there will be more depth in future with DLC.    … Expand
  6. Rrichard
    Sep 20, 2017
    10
    Easily the best strategy game available right now. Lacked a bit of depth at release, but the two DLCs have been great. Hundreds of hours of potential, and even more in multiplayer. Absolutely recommended if you like strategy games. Graphics are great too, though the 32-bit single core engine is a bit of a letdown.
  7. Dalogan72
    Jun 7, 2016
    10
    This game is just a 10/10, I am not going to say the graphics are good, for a war-game strategic at this level, that they are. the music is amazing, the details are just marvelous, the way to move armies is brilliant. The player is in control of many many things I mean much more that just making units. In this game the player have to observe many little details to be able to win. I haveThis game is just a 10/10, I am not going to say the graphics are good, for a war-game strategic at this level, that they are. the music is amazing, the details are just marvelous, the way to move armies is brilliant. The player is in control of many many things I mean much more that just making units. In this game the player have to observe many little details to be able to win. I have played as-well HOI3 and there is let's say an internal battle about, why this and what is that about. Let's not forgot this is just a game without dlcs, first version and with bugs, but the game, the game as a whole is 10/10. This is not a RTS game, this is a complex game, maybe HOI3 was more complex but let's allow these guys Paradox to keep working on it. My most sincere view about the game is very extremely positive. A lot of hard work in this game, this is not a worthless game out of a papa-mama company.… Expand
  8. arsenal143
    Jun 7, 2016
    10
    Vast improvement from HOI3, So much detail and up to you how much you want to micromanage or not. Only downside would be better if more nations had their own national focuses.
  9. Galverizer
    Jun 16, 2016
    10
    Most negative players are negative to the battle plan taht don't let you controll much. Thing is you can plan battle plans and then delete the battle plan and controll your own units. And you STILL get the bonus from battle planning. This is the most effektive way to do it if your good at incircling with fast moving divisions. The focus in the game is on production and manuevering yourMost negative players are negative to the battle plan taht don't let you controll much. Thing is you can plan battle plans and then delete the battle plan and controll your own units. And you STILL get the bonus from battle planning. This is the most effektive way to do it if your good at incircling with fast moving divisions. The focus in the game is on production and manuevering your units not R&D or diplomacy. If you want a diplomacy deep game then play EU4. If you want just war and manuering and strategical decitions like taking out the enemies resources instead of his industries. Then that is up to you what you find most effective. Also the hole logistic for your forces is an intressting and realistic gameplay. It was the logistic that Hitler failed to understand when he choose to rather go for natural resources then to destroy USSRs logistics which his Generals wanted, and probebly made him lose the war. You need very little managment of the Air forces since it all is focused on the land battles below. I am fine with that. AI is very retarded but I am sure a patch will come out to fix that. But a retarded AI isn't a problem when you play it in MP as I intend to do. If you gonna play it in single player mode then I suggest you wait until the AI is working.… Expand
  10. Sturmk
    Jun 7, 2016
    10
    This is my fisrt Paradox game. I tried to play their previous ones such as Darkest Hour and HOI III, but they were really hard to get into (i'm mostly a RTS player) and i gave up really fast because i simply had no fun playing them.
    While Still overwhelming at times, this game is far more easier than their previous games, thanks to a really good interface and less microing.
    Veterans    This is my fisrt Paradox game. I tried to play their previous ones such as Darkest Hour and HOI III, but they were really hard to get into (i'm mostly a RTS player) and i gave up really fast because i simply had no fun playing them.
    While Still overwhelming at times, this game is far more easier than their previous games, thanks to a really good interface and less microing.
    Veterans should not be afraid, since it's possible to micro if they want to.
    I would say this game combines the depth of the previous Paradox games, but with a welcome Interface and mechanics overhaul.
    If i should summarize, i would say it's easy to learn, hard to master.
    Everyone should try it, and they will like it !    … Expand
  11. Yomoholo
    Jun 7, 2016
    10
    played The Glorious Canadian Empire Fought a 10 year war with the USA won, just barely because of an american bulge in my line that i exploited to annihilate 15 divisions burnt down the white house.... again. profit of a fully united north america ruled by Canada then looked to Brazil for some tasty rubber.

    #would burn down Washington agian
  12. SaydaNeen
    Dec 18, 2017
    10
    One of the best strategy games out there. Even at this early stage of the games life (compared to other PDX titles) it's in good condition and looks good.
  13. rwei7481
    Apr 19, 2017
    10
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
  14. Super12
    Jun 3, 2017
    10
    Best. Game. Ever. No Argument. Ok, fine, the AI is a bit bad, but the level of detail is amazing, and the Modding community is the best. Just ever, it can fix whatever problems you may have, also the production system is the best, and also the air combat is the best.
  15. Schore
    Aug 30, 2017
    10
    Easily replaces HoI3 as my favourite game!

    I did more than a thousand hours of modding for HoI 3 so I was very sceptical before the release of HoI4. But I easily beats it in every area. - depth (resource management (land/air) and better diplomacy makes this game much more complex) - graphics (way better) - handling (way better) The AI is still not able to beat a decent player    Easily replaces HoI3 as my favourite game!

    I did more than a thousand hours of modding for HoI 3 so I was very sceptical before the release of HoI4.
    But I easily beats it in every area.

    - depth (resource management (land/air) and better diplomacy makes this game much more complex)
    - graphics (way better)
    - handling (way better)

    The AI is still not able to beat a decent player but it's far better than 1 year ago and at least twice as good as the HoI3-AI.

    Game handling can be done in 2 different ways:
    A) let the AI do the micro for you in a war (good for fast/big MP games or if you are new to the series)
    B) micro every single division by yourself (for advanced players to fight each other or the AI in slow motion)

    600 hours played so far and still getting not bored.    … Expand
  16. tastybaldeagle
    Feb 5, 2018
    10
    Definitely not as great as other Paradox games, but it doesn't require any DLC to play the game reasonably, soooo...still 10/10
  17. jtfris67
    Mar 24, 2018
    10
    This is simply the best WWII strategy game on the market. It's not close. If you enjoy playing strategic simulations of WWII this where you have to start. The interface will be too complicated for beginners but if you stick with it for a few weeks you'll really have something that you can use to simulate the big war.
  18. levart
    Jun 14, 2018
    10
    Игра просто интересна но для новичков (не игравших в серию игр hoi) будет сложно разобраться в ней. Обучение не советую проходить лучше посмотрите гайды об игре .
  19. Skogen21
    Oct 30, 2022
    10
    Great WWII strategy. As usual with Paradox games, the game is conceived as an alternative history sandbox. You can choose any nation and direct it in the direction you want. The game itself takes place on both strategic and tactical levels. You set up the war industry, prepare the design of the tanks/aircraft/ships, determine the composition of the units, plan and conduct the militaryGreat WWII strategy. As usual with Paradox games, the game is conceived as an alternative history sandbox. You can choose any nation and direct it in the direction you want. The game itself takes place on both strategic and tactical levels. You set up the war industry, prepare the design of the tanks/aircraft/ships, determine the composition of the units, plan and conduct the military operations themselves, and last but not least, the logistics, the supply of your units, is a critically important element of the game. I rate it 10/10 for complexity, replayability and at the same time freedom.… Expand
  20. DrMisiaq
    Apr 26, 2021
    10
    Terrible performance after 1943, game is almost unplayable past that date, not to mention 1945+. Game should be labelled as a drug due to addictive value. Hunting hundreds of achievements while fighting against hundreds of anti-human mechanics the game throws at a player to make him SUFFER? Spending almost 800 hours of my life during the last few years on a map-painting simulator? Was itTerrible performance after 1943, game is almost unplayable past that date, not to mention 1945+. Game should be labelled as a drug due to addictive value. Hunting hundreds of achievements while fighting against hundreds of anti-human mechanics the game throws at a player to make him SUFFER? Spending almost 800 hours of my life during the last few years on a map-painting simulator? Was it worth it? 10/10 F**k yea.… Expand
  21. Nikita_lom
    May 27, 2020
    10
    Замечательная игра в которую можно играть часами и днями, если надоело скачивай моды, игра раскроется ещё на 90%, стоит каждой копейки!
  22. CountCristo
    Jul 19, 2019
    10
    The best WW2 strategy game on the market. The deepest front line warfare you can find outside HOI3.
  23. Danil_L
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Я в этой игре наиграл 10000 часов, я считаю что это хороший продукт.
  24. cheeki_breeki
    Dec 26, 2019
    10
    Первая стратегия в которой я залип так сказать,тут надо думать об экономике,об армии, исследованиях и отношения между странами.Здесь нельзя просто взять и сделать кучу армии и всех выйграть,нет,а надо продумывать их строение,об оружии,об местности в которой они будут находится и даже идут они в атаку или просто будут оборонять. Так же если включить исторический режим то можно простоПервая стратегия в которой я залип так сказать,тут надо думать об экономике,об армии, исследованиях и отношения между странами.Здесь нельзя просто взять и сделать кучу армии и всех выйграть,нет,а надо продумывать их строение,об оружии,об местности в которой они будут находится и даже идут они в атаку или просто будут оборонять. Так же если включить исторический режим то можно просто понаблюдать за событиями которые хоть как то покажет историю 2 мировой,конечно не подробную,но хотя б даты сможешь узнать.Лучшая стратегия в которую я играл… Expand
  25. JolyEuro
    Dec 3, 2019
    10
    Best game that i was playing!
    You choose what you want to do and best thing is that you have to construct factory and you don't need any recourses for it
    10/10
  26. Akabeurjub
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    Amazing game, HOI4 has so many features and options and I love every single part of it, I have over 1000 hours of experience on the game as well, it might have a harsh start on new players as there's a lot of stuff to learn and get used to but at least give it a try if you're a fan of strategy games and you'll spend most of your time making/giving orders, and reassigning fleets and fighterAmazing game, HOI4 has so many features and options and I love every single part of it, I have over 1000 hours of experience on the game as well, it might have a harsh start on new players as there's a lot of stuff to learn and get used to but at least give it a try if you're a fan of strategy games and you'll spend most of your time making/giving orders, and reassigning fleets and fighter squadrons, you always have to keep an eye on the industry, resources, and technology that will allow you to sustain the war and it's filled with incremental decisions that take on mass and momentum to change the course of history.… Expand
  27. Horrorsaw
    Apr 2, 2020
    10
    Bol detaylı bir strateji oyunu. Başlarda karmaşık gelecektir ama 5-10saat oynadıktan sonra bırakamayacaksınız.
  28. SirEliteTheUgly
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Such a fantastic game if you are into WW2 history and grand strategy games.
  29. madloring
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    Как по мне, лучшая игра от парадоксов. Приятно иметь возможность начать игру и быстро организовать свои армии.
  30. eilwia
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best strategic game im played Hmmmmmmm
    I love ww2
    You can pick up hitler
    Churchi
    Rosvlet Stalin and musilini
    And reza shah pahlavi    … Expand
  31. crazygamer7477
    Jul 4, 2020
    10
    This game is amazing. You can do so many things. You literally can play as UK and then release and play as Rhodesia and become fascist and take over French Africa. The Graphics are amazing - you don't need a heavy up to date GPU - I use an Nvidia GTX 660 and it works perfectly fine. And people who say that it is slow probably have an Old CPU. That is definitely the main thing you will needThis game is amazing. You can do so many things. You literally can play as UK and then release and play as Rhodesia and become fascist and take over French Africa. The Graphics are amazing - you don't need a heavy up to date GPU - I use an Nvidia GTX 660 and it works perfectly fine. And people who say that it is slow probably have an Old CPU. That is definitely the main thing you will need for this game. A powerful CPU. Mine isn't even that powerful and it has made me all the way to 1948. And the modding community is huge which makes it even better!… Expand
  32. mavniselimi
    Dec 21, 2020
    10
    Güzel bir strateji oyunu her türden yaş grubuna uygun ama öğrenme aşaması uzun zaman alabiliyor
  33. At0mST
    Jan 13, 2021
    10
    Super Strategy Game I am play as england france russia germay united states turkey japan
  34. Ainz1
    Jan 13, 2021
    10
    Gut 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 Gut 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 Gut 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10
  35. kitru
    May 22, 2021
    10
    Лучшая военная стратегия про 2ую мировую войну. Из-за своей исключительности 10 оправдана, на мой взгляд.
  36. Spug
    Jun 18, 2021
    10
    I really love Hearts of iron 4. I really do. lovelovrloegolroglfovlrovlrovlfo
  37. Fralid
    Jul 9, 2021
    10
    The best strategy in the world, with the best community making quality mods.
  38. Shown_289
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Oh god, this is beautiful, the base game is very fun, the chaos that you can create, the wars and the diplomacy are... AMAZING, a good game whit an excellent price, and the DLCs are just a good way to get more content, (ADVICE: the DLC don't fix the game errors, just are expansions), the gameplay is beautiful, graphics are good and the optimization is..... DUDE ARE YOU KIDDING ME, i justOh god, this is beautiful, the base game is very fun, the chaos that you can create, the wars and the diplomacy are... AMAZING, a good game whit an excellent price, and the DLCs are just a good way to get more content, (ADVICE: the DLC don't fix the game errors, just are expansions), the gameplay is beautiful, graphics are good and the optimization is..... DUDE ARE YOU KIDDING ME, i just have 8 ram, a ryzen 3... and i don't have problems!!! (im not kidding) Just amazing... i don't believe this, wow!!!… Expand
  39. StarkAgentos
    Jul 15, 2022
    10
    Прошёл игру за 1 час, захватив весь мир за СССР. Крутейшая политическая стратегия, в которую я когда-либо играл.
  40. 4Lp4gu
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    Hearts of Iron 4 is the most awesome strategy game I've ever seen in my life. Because the game has a lot of variety in terms of variety. Example Technology researches, building factories, focus trees that shape the future of countries, etc. but not everything is perfect and not perfect in this game for example AI is so stupid dcls take too long to development. But in the end it's a greatHearts of Iron 4 is the most awesome strategy game I've ever seen in my life. Because the game has a lot of variety in terms of variety. Example Technology researches, building factories, focus trees that shape the future of countries, etc. but not everything is perfect and not perfect in this game for example AI is so stupid dcls take too long to development. But in the end it's a great game for me and I highly recommend it… Expand
  41. TimEngineer
    Sep 29, 2022
    10
    The best political strategy, in this game on my computer is 20fps!!! (With FPS map)
    I played in hoi4 300-350 hours. Im really fanat of hoi4!
  42. PYTH00
    Aug 15, 2023
    10
    It is the best strategy game I have ever played and the mods that come out make the game much better.
  43. Eminllc
    Jun 23, 2022
    10
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
    It's the best!!!
  44. Elos1
    Jul 4, 2022
    10
    Good game I liked it I think the best game about the second world war you can also install modifications cool game
  45. Nikabilan
    Mar 9, 2023
    10
    one of my favorite games. this is just a great game that can be played 1000 times and every time with unique cosenquneses.
  46. Preadatum
    Jul 10, 2022
    10
    A good stat game has almost everything thought out about the battle,modes make the game more enjoyable
  47. Sinkler_83
    Sep 20, 2022
    10
    Прекрасная стратегическая игра про 2 мировую. Самое хорошее в этой игре, это различные национальные фокусы и идеологии. Играя за Румынию можно присоединиться к странам "оси" так и помогать СССР. Потрясающая вариативность и геймплей.Прекрасная стратегическая игра про 2 мировую. Самое хорошее в этой игре, это различные национальные фокусы и идеологии. Играя за Румынию можно присоединиться к странам "оси" так и помогать СССР. Потрясающая вариативность и геймплей.
  48. justindagoose
    Nov 20, 2022
    10
    Il be honest ok, hearts of iron 4 is not the most fun game in the world. But with the insane amounts of good moments, I had with this game and the amount of time I spent playing it I can certainly give this a 10. At first, it's very complicated but when you get dedicated to learning you can do so much. It's an awesome strategy game and even if you're not satisfied with the base game thenIl be honest ok, hearts of iron 4 is not the most fun game in the world. But with the insane amounts of good moments, I had with this game and the amount of time I spent playing it I can certainly give this a 10. At first, it's very complicated but when you get dedicated to learning you can do so much. It's an awesome strategy game and even if you're not satisfied with the base game then you can get mods that literally make it a new game and making your own mod is quite simple Aswell. I love this game and it's my favorite game not because it's fun but because of what it delivers to you,… Expand
  49. vuachoigame
    Jan 8, 2023
    10
    good game.
    I hope game makers will add events after world war 2 and modern times
  50. ILikeHam
    Apr 14, 2023
    10
    Love the game but i dont have a life help pls
    :(..................................
  51. Amir1960
    May 12, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The best strategy for all time and for all game
    A bit hard for kids who gave a low rating to this great game
    But with practice and time, even if you know English, you can learn the game completely. Be sure to play
    free    … Expand
  52. whyyyyyyy
    May 29, 2023
    10
    I have 400+ hours on this game and I am still addicted to this masterpiece.
  53. lasagnafeeder
    Jun 7, 2016
    9
    I went with Italy for my first playthrough (not tutorial):

    I decided to ignore Western Europe and Africa, and instead focus my expansion in Eastern Europe. I started by lending support to the Yugoslavian Fascist Party, and eventually progressed to fomenting a fascist rebellion which began in Bosnia. When the civil war broke out, I immediately invaded Slovenia from the northwest, broke    I went with Italy for my first playthrough (not tutorial):

    I decided to ignore Western Europe and Africa, and instead focus my expansion in Eastern Europe. I started by lending support to the Yugoslavian Fascist Party, and eventually progressed to fomenting a fascist rebellion which began in Bosnia. When the civil war broke out, I immediately invaded Slovenia from the northwest, broke through the Yugoslav lines, and made a dash to secure coastal ports and open up a supply corridor to the besieged rebels in Sarajevo. Meanwhile, my navy maneuvered to cut off all Yugoslav shipping in the Adriatic, while my air wings (hastily rebased to captured Slovenian airfields near the front) flew round-the-clock CAS missions to help the rebels fend off Yugoslav counterattacks.

    You should buy this game because I basically played the Bosnian War in 1937.    … Expand
  54. RobertoMoir
    Aug 19, 2016
    9
    I like this game. There are areas to criticise (performance & AI as others note), but the game is great fun in my opinion. It's not really a successor to HOI 3, it's been made much more accessible and easy to get to grips with, which some people like and some people do not.

    I find myself quite liking it. It's great that you can select various a-historical scenarios to play out... What    I like this game. There are areas to criticise (performance & AI as others note), but the game is great fun in my opinion. It's not really a successor to HOI 3, it's been made much more accessible and easy to get to grips with, which some people like and some people do not.

    I find myself quite liking it. It's great that you can select various a-historical scenarios to play out... What would happen if Italy re-created the Roman Empire, went democratic, and steered clear of the Axis? By all means find out. Want to find out what would have happened if the Axis powers had avoided war with both the Allies and Russia at once? Well if you can keep the peace yourself, now's your chance to see.

    Want to pick a random "small" power from the era and find out what it would take to make Brazil a South-American powerhouse? Go for it. The possibilities are all there and all fun to play with.    … Expand
  55. Widgetmibob
    Aug 15, 2016
    9
    I'm new to the Hearts of Iron franchise and, had I looked at some of these score 2 or 0 reviews I may well not have bothered with this game. I'm glad I didn't listen because it is brilliant. There are some things that could be clearer and it's taken me an abandoned half a play through (I rage quit when my Panzers got over run, totally my fault) and a fair bit of you tube video watchingI'm new to the Hearts of Iron franchise and, had I looked at some of these score 2 or 0 reviews I may well not have bothered with this game. I'm glad I didn't listen because it is brilliant. There are some things that could be clearer and it's taken me an abandoned half a play through (I rage quit when my Panzers got over run, totally my fault) and a fair bit of you tube video watching (thank you Praetorian HiJynx ) but once you start to get to grips with it it completely draws you in. This is the best thing since Shogun 2. It would have got a 10 if

    1. The left click select, right click do had been more consistently adhered to
    2. Some of the error messages were more detailed when you try and do something that can't be done
    3. If the AI orders were a bit clearer.

    Don't listen to the 0 score people, this is an excellent game!!!    … Expand
  56. bogmire
    Nov 14, 2016
    9
    Holy crap my dude this game is primo. Wow, so good. I can kill Bulgaria as Estonia and win the big match! Save Chinamen from communism and even nuke Honduras! Thanks Paradox you the real MVP
  57. LordExarus
    Jun 13, 2016
    9
    Great Game overall,Paradox definitely hit it out of the park with this one.
    Pros
    -Much Improved Graphics -Vastly superior Naval and Aviation mechanics -Superior tech trees,better then just research the same technology 12 times then move on -Doctrines are far better,as now they are more like a actual decision,as you can't be the best of everything.Unlike Hoi3 which you could research    Great Game overall,Paradox definitely hit it out of the park with this one.
    Pros
    -Much Improved Graphics
    -Vastly superior Naval and Aviation mechanics
    -Superior tech trees,better then just research the same technology 12 times then move on
    -Doctrines are far better,as now they are more like a actual decision,as you can't be the best of everything.Unlike Hoi3 which you could research them all and be the best at everything.
    -Focus tree is a much needed change,game now has goals and objectives to go for,which is needed in a historically based game
    -A.I is better,the fact in Hoi3 the US would always join the war in 1940 was pretty annoying.
    -Is far easier to get into then Hoi3
    -Creating battleplans actually has a effect on the gameplay,as the A.I will attempt to do those maneuvers and attacks you made in the plans.
    -The Theatre mechanic is gone,which I thought to be extremely annoying,especially since it was replaced with a far better system.
    -Alternate history is now far easier to pull off with the focus tree,being able to make everything from the Kiwi Empire,to the Neo-Ottoman Empire,to Fascist France,including your own factions.
    -New Peace Treaty system,where now each nation can make demands from the losers based on how much they contributed to the war effort,a much needed addition.

    Cons
    -A.I is also slightly weaker in other areas,mainly just Germany,as often Germany will be extremely aggressive or extremely passive.Either attacking the USSR,Britain/France,the Low Countries and Yugoslavia all at the same time,or doesn't attack France till 1941.
    -Multiplayer connections are terrible,as in the majority of Paradox's strategy games,either have a very good connection,or don't play multiplayer.
    -Chain of Command is gone and replaced with a single leader per army,which is slightly disappointing though I somewhat understand why they did it.
    -Generic tech trees for any nation other then the major nations,it's really sad when your military consists of Medium Tank 1,and Naval Bomber 2

    A great game and for sure worth the buy,looking forward to the expansions and upcoming titles.    … Expand
  58. Austinian334
    Jun 6, 2016
    9
    AMAZING GAME! There may be some flaws with the ai being too passive sometimes or the game chugging in the later time, but this game is by far the best and greatest ww2 strategy game! (aside from risk ww2 edition).

    I wanted that ww2 experience that's thrusts me into the deserts of Africa, the beaches of Normandy, or the vast jungle filled islands of the pacific, and while the experiences    AMAZING GAME! There may be some flaws with the ai being too passive sometimes or the game chugging in the later time, but this game is by far the best and greatest ww2 strategy game! (aside from risk ww2 edition).

    I wanted that ww2 experience that's thrusts me into the deserts of Africa, the beaches of Normandy, or the vast jungle filled islands of the pacific, and while the experiences aren't literal, it is an amazing game. Hope the DLC's add even more emersion than the base game itself, and I can't wait to see future projects from Paradox Interactive in the future!    … Expand
  59. czarinabox
    Jun 7, 2016
    9
    As a player with hundreds of hours in both Hearts of Iron III and Darkest Hour I was skeptical of some of the “streamlining” decisions made by Paradox. Fortunately I feel many of the choices they have made let the game focus on more important and fun parts of managing a country through a world war. It’s nice being able to start up a game and quickly organize your armies. Gone are the daysAs a player with hundreds of hours in both Hearts of Iron III and Darkest Hour I was skeptical of some of the “streamlining” decisions made by Paradox. Fortunately I feel many of the choices they have made let the game focus on more important and fun parts of managing a country through a world war. It’s nice being able to start up a game and quickly organize your armies. Gone are the days of spending hours reorganizing a Soviet order of battle before pressing unpause (a feature which I honestly enjoyed, but also haven’t found myself missing).

    This game lets you focus on the big picture: what strategic moves are you going to make, how will they affect your position in the war? The battle plan system is a good example of this. Battle plans were useful in Hearts of Iron III, but you still found yourself giving hundreds of orders to divisions to just move forwards. Managing a few armies instead of hundreds of divisions lets you remember their commanders as well, something I always had difficulty with in previous titles.

    The interface in general is also much better. The logistics screen in particular is very well done, and production is easy to manage while also providing a really unique and interesting system compared with older versions. Unfortunately in some areas it can be difficult to get information, especially from battles (I definitely miss Darkest Hour’s battle reports, but even HoI3’s weren’t as nice).

    I haven’t encountered issues with the AI so far, but I could just be lucky.

    Overall, if you are a veteran of previous titles I would definitely recommend giving this entry a look, as it brings a lot to the table and most of what has been cut has been fluff that, when you get down to it, didn’t really provide interesting strategic choices anyways. When I think of the best times I had in HoI3 I don’t think of reorganizing my OoB, I think of my first punches back against the Germans in North Africa, the enormous encirclements in Barbarossa, the 3-pronged naval invasion of China. This game lets you focus on those moments.    … Expand
  60. SanderTB
    Jun 7, 2016
    9
    Ive played HOI II & III , i really liked to concept but found myself overwelmed with micromanagin division, chain of command structures, and a AI that will punish the smallest of mistakes.

    Imo HOI III was way to cumbersome to take on bigger nations like soviet with a twofront war, you get the picture. ALL that is gone, and now you get to do grandstragtegy on diplomacy, warfare,    Ive played HOI II & III , i really liked to concept but found myself overwelmed with micromanagin division, chain of command structures, and a AI that will punish the smallest of mistakes.

    Imo HOI III was way to cumbersome to take on bigger nations like soviet with a twofront war, you get the picture.

    ALL that is gone, and now you get to do grandstragtegy on diplomacy, warfare, production research while not being overwhelming. Interface and alot of easy and quick ways of commanding naval, air and land in just a few clicks.

    The masterycurve is till steep by normal standards but you can play the tutorial in 15 minutes and start playing around straight away.

    Paradox keeps delivering good grandstragtegy games and HOI IV exceeded all my expectations    … Expand
  61. KGBMinamoto
    Jun 7, 2016
    9
    If you like WW2, and you have enough time on your hands, this game is near perfect. This game fulfils everyone of your micro and macro desires, with gorgeous graphics and refined combat system. Only reason its not 10/10 is because it chugs in the late-game.
  62. FaneHD
    Jun 11, 2016
    9
    Pros:

    -Great WW2 experience
    -Research tree is much more easier to understand than HOI3
    -Overall a great game

    Cons:

    -Some performance issues, you need a high-end CPU, but that's no big deal.
  63. 019web
    Jun 12, 2016
    9
    HOI4 provides the perfect level of detail and control compared with hearts of iron 3. It is a strong core foundation with excellent game mechanics and with balance improvements and expansions it will be the best Paradox strategy game to date. I really like the army management and operation planner and the intuitiveness (compared with the horror of hoi3) really broadens the appeal of theHOI4 provides the perfect level of detail and control compared with hearts of iron 3. It is a strong core foundation with excellent game mechanics and with balance improvements and expansions it will be the best Paradox strategy game to date. I really like the army management and operation planner and the intuitiveness (compared with the horror of hoi3) really broadens the appeal of the game. Nonetheless, great depth of strategy in the game with industrial management, division designer, tech tree and equipment designer. AI is stronger than I expected it would be. Excellent… Expand
  64. direweasel
    Jan 25, 2018
    9
    This is a great game and it will get better. Yes, the AI needs a lot of work. Yes, the naval combat system needs a lot of work. But the work is being done, and the base game is worth the effort.

    You can literally play as ANY nation that existed during that time period, and a few nations that did NOT exist (yet, or at all). Want to run through WW2 as Ecuador? Not sure why you'd want    This is a great game and it will get better. Yes, the AI needs a lot of work. Yes, the naval combat system needs a lot of work. But the work is being done, and the base game is worth the effort.

    You can literally play as ANY nation that existed during that time period, and a few nations that did NOT exist (yet, or at all). Want to run through WW2 as Ecuador? Not sure why you'd want to do that, but you can. You can play as the UK, grant Egypt it's independence, and then take over play as Egypt. Obviously the more common options would be the major players in the war - the Germans, Italians, Soviets, Japanese, British, French, or Americans, but don't feel limited to just those. Play as Finland and see if you can stand up to the Red Army!

    Again, I understand the game is not a finished product. That's why the current rating is a 9. It has the potential to be a 10 with some more work, and that work is coming. Paradox doesn't just "fire and forget" it's games - they continue working and improving and tweaking. They listen to the constructive criticism on their forums and keep at it.    … Expand
  65. Roke_
    Mar 23, 2017
    9
    fantastic as it takes a while to learn but then once it's learnt it's fun to play as there is so much variety as you can play as all countries available in world war 2 and the modding community is big as well as there lots of mods changing the time period also it is amazing fun with friends as you can either team with them or turn on them but there a few optimisation problems as it usuallyfantastic as it takes a while to learn but then once it's learnt it's fun to play as there is so much variety as you can play as all countries available in world war 2 and the modding community is big as well as there lots of mods changing the time period also it is amazing fun with friends as you can either team with them or turn on them but there a few optimisation problems as it usually is quite laggy and can get boring if the game goes on forever.… Expand
  66. WCM320
    Feb 6, 2021
    9
    For what this game is, it's more or less the best you get right now.
    It has problems but I feel like any game of this kind is going to .
  67. Emperorfaris
    Mar 11, 2018
    9
    it's a great grand strategy mixed with sandbox, alternate history (if you want to), accurate history (again optional) and actual balanced game play the only downside of it is the lag and stuttering that happens when there's a lot happening in the game and the game is calculating.
  68. Evgeny__N
    May 4, 2018
    9
    Кратко: Отличная стратегия про 2 мировую войну. Имеется SteamWorkshop с огромным количеством разных модов.
    Плюсы:
    -Очень хорошая стратегия. -Свобода действий. -Мультиплеер. -Хорошая графика для данного вида стратегий. -Разработчик слушающий комьюнити. -Часы геймплея. -Тысячи хороших модов. Минусы: -Большая цена. -Для всех тонкостей нужны дорогие DLC. -Нету понятного обучения.    Кратко: Отличная стратегия про 2 мировую войну. Имеется SteamWorkshop с огромным количеством разных модов.
    Плюсы:
    -Очень хорошая стратегия.
    -Свобода действий.
    -Мультиплеер.
    -Хорошая графика для данного вида стратегий.
    -Разработчик слушающий комьюнити.
    -Часы геймплея.
    -Тысячи хороших модов.
    Минусы:
    -Большая цена.
    -Для всех тонкостей нужны дорогие DLC.
    -Нету понятного обучения. (Сложная для игры в начале).    … Expand
  69. JoeMightBeFunny
    Jun 1, 2018
    9
    With an amazing modding community and interesting gameplay, HOI4 is my favorite Paradox strategy game.
  70. nikoparo03
    Dec 22, 2018
    9
    questo è stato il mio primo gioco paradox,e lo adoro! Per gli appassionati di storia come me lo consiglio moltissimo,unica pecca è che non c'è la lingua italiana,ma del resto tutto bellissimo per iniziare a giocare i grand strategy,mentre se avete gia giocato grand strategy troverete il gioco troppo semplice e noioso.
  71. Scotchex
    Feb 23, 2019
    9
    The graphics are good for a strategy game.
    I personally like WWI and WW2 themes, so this is also a plus to me.
    There are tons of mods, so I don't think so you'll get bored.
    But there are some bad things about the game,
    I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY DID YOU MAKE THE CAMERA CONTROL THIS BAD !
  72. mahmutbaris
    Jun 14, 2019
    9
    steamde 100 saate yakın oynadığım bir oyun grand strategy türünü seviyorsanız oynamanızı tavsıye ederim
  73. Adestinyfrog
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    A game you can sink hours apon hours into. Well worth the price and the dlc is quality
  74. Averycrosslin
    Nov 2, 2019
    9
    After many rage quits, uninstalls, and reinstalls of the game, I have come to the conclusion that hearts of iron 4 is amazing. I have spent many hours on the game and I have only come to a fraction of the possibilities you can do. I love the freedom of choosing what to do and making alliances, building a military, and not to mention just wrecking the crap out of other countries. My onlyAfter many rage quits, uninstalls, and reinstalls of the game, I have come to the conclusion that hearts of iron 4 is amazing. I have spent many hours on the game and I have only come to a fraction of the possibilities you can do. I love the freedom of choosing what to do and making alliances, building a military, and not to mention just wrecking the crap out of other countries. My only complaints are, that it takes a while to learn the game, but once you learn it it is absolutely so much fun. Also, the multiplayer system needs better servers, because me and my friends are constantly disconnecting and we have to start a new game. Other than that, hearts of iron 4 is an absolutely outstanding game.… Expand
  75. easygunnysniper
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    If you are a WWII enthusiasts then this is the perfect game for you. It has somewhat high learning curve if this is your first HOI instalment you've ever played but once you have a hang of it, it is one of the most satisfying and gratifying experience.

    Being key players in WWII; scheme and manoeuvre your way to get the most during this world conflict. Japan is one of the best faction    If you are a WWII enthusiasts then this is the perfect game for you. It has somewhat high learning curve if this is your first HOI instalment you've ever played but once you have a hang of it, it is one of the most satisfying and gratifying experience.

    Being key players in WWII; scheme and manoeuvre your way to get the most during this world conflict.

    Japan is one of the best faction to start as, with a mixture of air, naval and land units at your disposal. Take over china whilst repelling naval invasions from the US. Kamikaze strike the US navy and take over south east Asia and the asian commonwealth. Not satisfied?

    You can role-play as the Führer himself take over France. Bomb the UK then undergo operation Barbarossa and successfully invade Russia with your Blitzkrieg Panzer tanks.
    or
    On the other hand rule the motherland with an iron fist as Josef Stalin, waiting to pounce when the German supplies are exhausted by the Russian winter with Russian Heavy Tanks and specialised Winter soldiers.

    These are but a few interesting scenarios in the game and you can change the course of history. Great depth and tactics involved.

    Downsides are that the game aren't really geared towards world domination/ or late game, and most mechanics involved will be during the WWII timeline. However this is understandable since the game is really about the WWII conflict. Few other nuisance here and there like microing your troops during air/naval invasion etc. but this can be overlooked when you are gearing up your nation for the final showdown to becoming the most glorious nations.

    Think hard, plan wisely and prepare well, as General Douglas MacArthur has put it, for:

    "In war there is no substitute for victory."    … Expand
  76. AGplay
    Feb 7, 2020
    9
    Es un muy buen juego de estrategia, con mucha libertad para hacer lo que quieras.
  77. Bolgar1
    Aug 22, 2021
    9
    It's an excellent game I don't put 10/10 because there's to much dlc's that should be in the base game.
  78. Deadshot159
    Feb 15, 2022
    9
    Hearts of Iron 4 is an amazing game. Best thing about Hearts of Iron 4 is that you can play it for hours and hours yet still enjoy it. No wonder some people has hundreds and hundreds of hours on Hearts of Iron 4. Pretty much everything is possible, and if its not then mod can contain the thing you want. For example do you want to make democratic fascist germany? Restore NapoleonicHearts of Iron 4 is an amazing game. Best thing about Hearts of Iron 4 is that you can play it for hours and hours yet still enjoy it. No wonder some people has hundreds and hundreds of hours on Hearts of Iron 4. Pretty much everything is possible, and if its not then mod can contain the thing you want. For example do you want to make democratic fascist germany? Restore Napoleonic generation in France? All of those are done my focus trees in the game which is special for most of the major countries. There are some downsides to the game. For example too much complexity in some aspects of the game. Another downside that alot of countries lacks special focus tree, for example Brazil. Yeah it wasnt involved that much in ww2 but its still a major country. Afterall, game offers so much that its rare for someone to achieve every scenario.
    (after scrolling through some user reviews, I realised many people dislike the game only because of the complexity and hardness to learn)    … Expand
  79. Kururu303
    Jun 30, 2020
    9
    Il gioco in se non è perfetto e sicuramente non un capolavoro della strategia. Gli darei un 8 per il gameplay che alzo però a 9 per l'incredibile longevità e versatilità che il titolo sta avendo grazie alle mod!
  80. HansSigmaringen
    Dec 30, 2020
    9
    A nice game where you can command armies manage the country you play. Make factories make armies and conqueror the world.
  81. Aole29
    Feb 12, 2022
    9
    Good game to buy. Only one minus without DLC the game is not interesting. But even here there is a way out - these are mods, with them you can not even buy DLC.
  82. Corlukral
    Feb 14, 2021
    9
    Good game.Best stragetic game.It tells world war 2.There isn t a story mode but you can play with your friends or play single.
  83. bropro132
    Apr 12, 2022
    9
    Pretty hard at start for new guys but it`s good after 96h so like that game
  84. not_a_dog
    Sep 9, 2021
    9
    the game is good but a little bit on the money garbing side of game with its amount of dlc
  85. BountyS
    Dec 8, 2021
    9
    a game that has no similar, my biggest complaint is crashes and optimization. the game is a bit tricky though. surprisingly, even there are cheaters, but not many.
  86. GrammurGek
    Jan 1, 2022
    9
    Easily my favourite game to play as it can be a fairly accurate telling of the events of WW2 or can be diverted to be more focused towards your own alternate history without being too ludicrous in the way that things could come about although this has slightly deviated in recent DLC. Not a ten as there are many DLC that add to make the full game very expensive as can be difficult to firstEasily my favourite game to play as it can be a fairly accurate telling of the events of WW2 or can be diverted to be more focused towards your own alternate history without being too ludicrous in the way that things could come about although this has slightly deviated in recent DLC. Not a ten as there are many DLC that add to make the full game very expensive as can be difficult to first get into as the game can be quite difficult for inexperienced players however apart from this there are not many faults.… Expand
  87. apixx
    May 1, 2022
    9
    If you're here to complain about how hard the game is to learn, Paradox games are not for you. Keep in mind thta Hoi4 is the easiest paradox game to learn. The game is very well done. I would give it a 9 out of 10 just because the game is more like : You buy DLC, you have more fun and thats how most Paradox games are or else it would be a 10/10 directly
  88. TURBO0-0
    Jul 29, 2022
    9
    Два вопрос к этой игре. Что такое личная жизнь и сколько у неё дивизий?) А так игра очень хорошая.
  89. Moger
    Mar 20, 2023
    9
    Oynadığım ilk ve bana en çok zevk veren Paradox oyunu. İkinci Dünya Savaşını ve o zamandaki ülkelerin durumlarını, alternatiflerini, içinde bulundukları zorlukları ve sayamayacağım kadar daha çok şeyi içinde barındıran oynadığım en iyi oyunlardan. Panzerler ile Fransız cephelerini yarmanın Türkiye ile Osmanlı Sınırlarına ulaşmanın Almanya ile tüm dünya ile savaşmanın bana verdiği eğlenceyiOynadığım ilk ve bana en çok zevk veren Paradox oyunu. İkinci Dünya Savaşını ve o zamandaki ülkelerin durumlarını, alternatiflerini, içinde bulundukları zorlukları ve sayamayacağım kadar daha çok şeyi içinde barındıran oynadığım en iyi oyunlardan. Panzerler ile Fransız cephelerini yarmanın Türkiye ile Osmanlı Sınırlarına ulaşmanın Almanya ile tüm dünya ile savaşmanın bana verdiği eğlenceyi hayatım boyunca başka hiçbir oyundan alamadım.… Expand
  90. male92
    Feb 8, 2023
    9
    This is my first paradox game and its honestly worth it. All though it is quite hard to learn it is very rewarding but you will need a tutorial, but i just watched other people play and thats how i learned but its also fine to do tutorials. Also you're gonna have to scroll the steam workshop for a bit to find some mods cause most of this game is mod based and will need mods to enjoy theThis is my first paradox game and its honestly worth it. All though it is quite hard to learn it is very rewarding but you will need a tutorial, but i just watched other people play and thats how i learned but its also fine to do tutorials. Also you're gonna have to scroll the steam workshop for a bit to find some mods cause most of this game is mod based and will need mods to enjoy the full experience. If you more enjoy fast gameplay than this isn't for you this is for patient people who like to strategise. But it does some bugs and will at least once have to google how to fix some bug(usually with mods)
    .Overall this a good complicated game and i would reccomend. Plus micromanaging and winning because of your micromanaging is so nice and feels very rewarding    … Expand
  91. Lukastrav
    Feb 19, 2023
    9
    Ok I might be a little bit biased as I have 600 hours in the game and still playing but I stopped for about 2 years. Anyway there’s 4 type of people when you play the game.

    People who love the game with all there heart People who stopped at the complexity of it Poeple who has no dlcs And poeple who hates that they love it Only them four no in between.But I need to warn you it isn’t a    Ok I might be a little bit biased as I have 600 hours in the game and still playing but I stopped for about 2 years. Anyway there’s 4 type of people when you play the game.

    People who love the game with all there heart People who stopped at the complexity of it
    Poeple who has no dlcs And poeple who hates that they love it
    Only them four no in between.But I need to warn you it isn’t a learning hill it’s a learning mountain band I’d you escape it you will love it very much. Though many give up. After the cliff its like walking up stairs . So if your willing to spend at least a hundred hours get it if not don’t bother.
    Tip (buy during sale it literally on sale every 2 months)    … Expand
  92. Ikomik
    Jun 17, 2023
    9
    The game is super fun. It might be a little bit complicated but it is easy to learn. but it takes a long time thi
  93. Jamjlam
    Aug 17, 2023
    9
    The game is very fun with different focus tree paths for many nations, however it does get far more features and focus trees with dlcs but since they added subscription which is pretty cheap its better. Another problem is that AI in this game is pretty dumb for the most part and because of that the outcomes of the war can be very different (even on historical). There are also lots ofThe game is very fun with different focus tree paths for many nations, however it does get far more features and focus trees with dlcs but since they added subscription which is pretty cheap its better. Another problem is that AI in this game is pretty dumb for the most part and because of that the outcomes of the war can be very different (even on historical). There are also lots of amazing mods for this game such as kaiserreich, road to 56, millennium dawn and so on.… Expand
  94. unwaten
    Aug 25, 2023
    9
    Hearts of Iron IV is a popular war strategy game that allows you to experience the strategic challenges of a major war. Let's take a look at the positive and negative aspects of this game.

    Positive Aspects: Deep Strategic Experience: Hearts of Iron IV skillfully combines complex military strategies and diplomacy. It offers plenty of opportunities to control all aspects of a nation,    Hearts of Iron IV is a popular war strategy game that allows you to experience the strategic challenges of a major war. Let's take a look at the positive and negative aspects of this game.

    Positive Aspects:

    Deep Strategic Experience:
    Hearts of Iron IV skillfully combines complex military strategies and diplomacy. It offers plenty of opportunities to control all aspects of a nation, make strategic moves, and take tactical decisions. The presence of various nations and scenarios enhances the game's replayability.

    Detailed Historical Recreation:
    The historical recreation in the game is quite impressive. Based on real history and events, the game provides players with the opportunity to experience the atmosphere and history of that era. Moreover, the game modes and mods created by the community offer the chance to explore alternative historical scenarios.

    In-Depth Military Planning:
    Military strategy takes center stage in the game, providing a deep experience of war planning. Managing your armies, arranging frontlines, and maintaining supply chains reflect the complexity of warfare.

    Negative Aspects:

    Learning Curve:
    Due to its complex mechanics, Hearts of Iron IV can have a steep learning curve for new players. Learning the game's basic principles and mastering strategic details can take some time.

    Slow Pacing:
    The game's progression of time can be slow, especially when simulating large-scale wars. While this might not be an issue for players who enjoy long processes, it could become tedious for those expecting quick outcomes.

    AI Ineffectiveness:
    In some instances, the artificial intelligence (AI) can be lacking in terms of in-game decisions. Allies or enemies might make unexpected and illogical moves, negatively impacting the player's experience.

    Conclusion:

    Hearts of Iron IV offers a captivating experience for strategy and history enthusiasts. Despite its positive aspects such as deep strategic options, historical recreation, and military planning, the steep learning curve and certain mechanical shortcomings might be challenging for some players. However, for those who appreciate the complexity and details, it can provide a rewarding war strategy experience.    … Expand
  95. dprkforum
    Jun 10, 2016
    8
    Hearts of Iron 4 is a great gateway for understanding the other games I simply could not understand. I tried Arsenal of Democracy and Hearts of Iron 3, but had no idea where to start. This game showed the way, and the other games now make some sense now that I am able to navigate the interface.

    + Great graphics, sound and streamlined interface. Focus on production is a clever idea. Love    Hearts of Iron 4 is a great gateway for understanding the other games I simply could not understand. I tried Arsenal of Democracy and Hearts of Iron 3, but had no idea where to start. This game showed the way, and the other games now make some sense now that I am able to navigate the interface.

    + Great graphics, sound and streamlined interface. Focus on production is a clever idea. Love how Paradox took the time to add a national focus and alternate history information such as generic fascist/communist leaders

    - No budgets. Diplomacy is weak. No way to automate some more mundane tasks.

    I am having a wonderful time with this game, and already sunk in 30 hours. I can see lots of replyability with this game.    … Expand
  96. Paul_Kingtiger
    Jun 7, 2016
    8
    The latest version of Paradox's world war 2 grand strategy games brings it more into line with crusader kings 2 and Europa Universalis 4. The UI and your choices have been streamlined into a much more accessible game. There are plenty of choices and those choices make a big difference, but the micromanagement has be reduced making play less of a chore (for me anyway). The divisionThe latest version of Paradox's world war 2 grand strategy games brings it more into line with crusader kings 2 and Europa Universalis 4. The UI and your choices have been streamlined into a much more accessible game. There are plenty of choices and those choices make a big difference, but the micromanagement has be reduced making play less of a chore (for me anyway). The division designer is excellent and instantly makes sense, and the new army system is far simpler than before, but still allows you to build up a army and give it complex instructions. I love the new army orders system, drawing front lines and arrows on the map makes you feel like a general in a command bunker.

    The new production and trade systems are a huge improvement over HOI3, civilian factories make trade goods and other factories and military factories produce war equipment. You tell your military factories to produce equipment of various types, small arms, specific models of tanks and aircraft and each new unit you build requires various combination of this equipment and of course men.

    The research and national focus systems work like a tech tree, allowing you to customise your nation.

    Finally, yes it is less hardcore than HOI3, but that makes it more accessible to new players, whilst still offering lots of choices and less micromanagement. But if you are turbo into that stuff you can pick up HOI3 on steam at a great price. Me, I far prefer this more accessible version.    … Expand
  97. Wiebe
    Feb 26, 2020
    8
    The dept of this game and its strategy is just plain awesome. The game also mostly gets better with every DLC and patch. However, the game can feel like a chore with some many elements to keep track off, especially with the Man the Guns patch where you have to edit the loadouts for every ship. Also the AI is just plain dumb, and even with the AI Mod there are game breaking problems withThe dept of this game and its strategy is just plain awesome. The game also mostly gets better with every DLC and patch. However, the game can feel like a chore with some many elements to keep track off, especially with the Man the Guns patch where you have to edit the loadouts for every ship. Also the AI is just plain dumb, and even with the AI Mod there are game breaking problems with every patch, like the AI moving all its units to the other side of the world, or abandoning front lines.… Expand
  98. BoredGamerUK
    Nov 5, 2016
    8
    For me this is a combination of HOI2 & the mod Core. It allows easy access into the game for new players while having a lot of odd & cool stuff you can do. The AI is a bit lacking & does weird things sometimes BUT they have acknowledged that so hopefully it will get a fix.
    I play HOI4 for multiplayer and playing random "smaller" countries in WW2 like Brazil OR Romania.
    It's different    For me this is a combination of HOI2 & the mod Core. It allows easy access into the game for new players while having a lot of odd & cool stuff you can do. The AI is a bit lacking & does weird things sometimes BUT they have acknowledged that so hopefully it will get a fix.
    I play HOI4 for multiplayer and playing random "smaller" countries in WW2 like Brazil OR Romania.
    It's different from HOI3 and a lot of the fans of that particular HOI game might not like some of the revisions.    … Expand
  99. eva3si0n
    Aug 26, 2017
    8
    The games Paradox always were for a narrow circle of people. They too difficult for the majority, but if you master the main mechanics, then before you within strategy infinite opportunities open. So it happened also to a new part of Hearts of Iron 4. I am not a fan of strategy of Paradox, and it is even less HOI series. But the 4th game came to new level. Yes it is still a game with theThe games Paradox always were for a narrow circle of people. They too difficult for the majority, but if you master the main mechanics, then before you within strategy infinite opportunities open. So it happened also to a new part of Hearts of Iron 4. I am not a fan of strategy of Paradox, and it is even less HOI series. But the 4th game came to new level. Yes it is still a game with the high level of occurrence, but it is the best strategy about WW2. National focuses and a tree of technologies are perfectly registered, it is a pity that only all this only for 6 largest countries. A game is very reigrabelny, for each top country it is possible to win back 3 various fractions. The only minus of a game are a graphic design and many things are made through "one" place, for example landing of troops. And yes the price policy of DLC Gearbox is simply disgusting.… Expand
  100. Mitya64
    Feb 15, 2020
    8
    Первая моя игра от данных разработчиков. Геймплей трудный, но интересный. Для его изучения понадобятся сотни часов. Очень интересная песочница,где можно за люксембург захватить весь мир, в ссср сделать российскую империю и т.д. Мне не нравится только то, что обучение максимально не помогает, мне пришлось все вникать самому и на ютубе смотреть. И обычно в конце игры получается непонятнаяПервая моя игра от данных разработчиков. Геймплей трудный, но интересный. Для его изучения понадобятся сотни часов. Очень интересная песочница,где можно за люксембург захватить весь мир, в ссср сделать российскую империю и т.д. Мне не нравится только то, что обучение максимально не помогает, мне пришлось все вникать самому и на ютубе смотреть. И обычно в конце игры получается непонятная разбериха, какая то война альянсов, из за 100 процентной напряженности. В целом игра очень интересная, но вникать нужно очень долго и время вам много придется потратить на нее.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

47
#47 Best PC Game of 2016
22
#22 Most Discussed PC Game of 2016
66
#66 Most Shared PC Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 37
  3. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. Cubed3
    Mar 20, 2018
    50
    The complexity and slow speed of how things evolve take the fun down notches lower than it otherwise would deserve. Endless clicking through menus, and a glacial speed, ruin what could have been a pretty slick overall experience.
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  2. Pelit (Finland)
    Sep 28, 2016
    85
    Hearts of Iron 4 successfully streamlines a complex strategy game while still retaining the feel of total industrial warfare. AI difficulties persist, however, and some revamped mechanics still need a bit of polishing. [Aug 2016]
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Sep 14, 2016
    80
    Excellent revival of a rusty brand with improved accessibility to a wider audience. Paradox studio has rocked in recent years and proof of this is the best episode of the series Hearts of Iron. [Issue#266]
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