Europa Universalis V Review - Fan Service on an Intercontinental Scale
If you are a regular player of Paradox games, you have likely been asked by a friend how to get into them. Answers vary widely: some prefer the character-driven Crusader Kings series, while others lean toward the focused scope of Hearts of Iron. Now, however, there is one clear response: don’t start with Europa Universalis V.
Interestingly, Europa Universalis IV used to be the common starting point until now. The first thing to note about EU5 is how different it is from its predecessor. While EU4 was a map-painter, expansion in EU5 is much more challenging due to the constant balancing of internal interests within your own nation.
For instance, even taking over a few Irish counties as Gaelic Scotland — sharing the same religion and strong cultural ties — can seriously destabilize your realm. I eventually handed those lands over to a client state to maintain stability.
“In EU4 I’d be planning a vast, intercontinental empire at this point in the game. In EU5 I dream about owning Berwick-upon-Tweed.”
Key Differences Between EU4 and EU5
- EU4 focuses on broad territorial expansion and map control.
- EU5 emphasizes internal political management and stability.
- Expansion decisions carry deeper consequences in EU5, limiting reckless conquest.
Summary
Europa Universalis V revolutionizes the series by shifting from grand territorial conquest to intricate internal governance, making the game more strategic but less accessible for newcomers.