Paradox Interactive, the renowned publisher behind titles such as Cities: Skylines, Crusader Kings, and Stellaris, has officially announced the next installment in their acclaimed grand strategy series: Europa Universalis 5. The announcement comes on the heels of a tantalizing tease last week, culminating in the release of a sweeping cinematic trailer today. The game is being crafted by Paradox Tinto, based in Barcelona, Spain, the team that has been instrumental in the development of Europa Universalis 4 over recent years. Although a release date remains under wraps, eager fans can already explore the Europa Universalis 5 Steam page.
"Challenge your strategic skills over 500 years of history, in Europa Universalis 5, the latest version of the celebrated grand strategy game," states Paradox's official description. "Master the arts of war, trade, diplomacy, and government in the largest and most detailed Europa Universalis game ever. Guide the destiny of any of hundreds of nations and societies in a simulated living world of unparalleled depth and complexity."
Europa Universalis 5 has been meticulously developed over the past five years by Paradox Tinto, with a keen focus on catering to the dedicated Paradox fanbase. The team has actively incorporated feedback from over a year of public discussion, emphasizing the public's crucial role in shaping what they tout as "the largest and most detailed Europa Universalis game ever made."The game's campaign kicks off at the onset of the Hundred Years' War in 1337, guiding players through pivotal historical moments with an arsenal of new features at their disposal. Today's reveal spotlighted a new, expansive map that leverages accurate map projection, encompassing hundreds of distinct societies. A novel population-based system, alongside enhanced production and trade mechanisms, allows players to cultivate their nation by establishing farms, plantations, and factories, or by engaging in commerce with neighboring regions.
This ambitious project aims to deliver a strategy experience that empowers players to shape and manage their nation according to their vision. Although fans had largely anticipated the announcement, the project's scope and ambition have been met with excitement and curiosity.
Europa Universalis V - First Screenshots
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“Europa Universalis 5 builds on the franchise’s core concept of developing and advancing nations from around a deeply researched historical world,” the description elaborates, “adding more detailed diplomacy, a more sophisticated economic model, a revised military system, and greater logistical depth that will challenge even the most experienced strategy gamers.”
Europa Universalis 5 is slated for a PC release at an unspecified future date. In the meantime, stay tuned for updates and delve into our hands-on preview here.