Europa Universalis V
Choose between the sword and the pen, the religious and the secular, and the aristocracy and the people. Paradox Interactive has released its "grandest strategy game" yet: Europa Universalis V.
– 3 min read
Each grand strategy title by Paradox has its own merits and complexities, but none try to emulate as complex a time frame as the Europa Universalis series, spanning from the end of the Middle Ages to the steam engine. As Paradox’ ultimate emulation of warfare, economy, society and infrastructure, Europa Universalis IV has been the powerhouse of grand strategy since its release in 2013, backed by its DLC catalogue spanning 32 expansions. It's therefore a special challenge to phase this behemoth out and bring a new Europa Universalis into the world in a state that fans and newcomers alike will accept.
With newcomers, Paradox has found a formula since the release of Crusader Kings 3, with streamlined UI and a tutorial. The concept had worked in Victoria 3 as well and will be finetuned in EU V. With the new, clean graphics, the game is sure to attract new players to the flagship series.
Europa Universalis V; Paradox Interactive
Paradox will have a much harder time with fans, but their ideas to grab them are promising. The more detailed diplomacy and more economic options betray that Paradox has looked to their other franchises, taken the best out of Victoria 3 and Crusader Kings 3 and implemented those systems into EU V. The new military system – always one of the hardest to do right – will have to prove itself, but Paradox is famous for massive patches that alter entire systems. And the DLC support will be massive of course as well, naturally.
Europa Universalis V is developed by Paradox Tinto and released by Paradox Interactive on 4 November 2025 for PC the suggested retail price of $59.99/£49.99/€59.99. The Premium Edition, including two upcoming chronicle packs and one upcoming immersion pack as well as an instant cosmetic reward, is being sold for the suggested retail price of $84.99/£70.99/€84.99.
Conclusion
Europa Universalis V has all the makings of Paradox’ next flagship game. Clever additions see to that.
Features
- Clean, streamlined optics
- New systems adapted from sister games
- Huge timeline, massive decision options
Europa Universalis V; Paradox Interactive
Written by
Pascal Wagner is Chief of Relations of GamesMarket and Senior Editor specialised in indie studios, politics, funding and academic coverage.
