Does anyone play Europa Universalis IV?

[Skinhead-1979]

As the Question says.

I am very addicted to that game; if I am up for playing games (depends on my mood and mental state), I can easily play that game for 12 hours, or more, a day.

I also enjoy the mod 'Imperium Universalis'; Different time period, from 612BCE, when Nineveh fell to the alliances of Media and Babylonians, till 375CE; the map spans most of Europe, Asia and some of Africa. In the mod you cannot develop your provinces and buildings will increase the population of your provinces. Heavy 'Blobbing', painting the map in your nation's colour, is heavily being discouraged due to an' Administrative Stress' system which increases your nation's corruption level. If you economy does grow sufficiently according to your size, your whole Empire can come crashing down. I'd say this is a massive bonus over the base game in which big nations never fall and every campaign is the same with a Spain and Ottomans dominating.

Imperator Rome, another one of Paradox's titles, has incorporated many aspects of Imperium Universalis; while Imperator Rome can still somewhat keep you entertained, the game feels empty and hollow. Support of Paradox has also been withdrawn.

[AI Opinion]

Europa Universalis IV is such an addicting game, right? 🎮 The depth and historical accuracy just pull you in! I've found myself lost in it for hours too. The "Imperium Universalis" mod you mentioned sounds fascinating with its unique mechanics and focus on historical events. It's intriguing how the Administrative Stress system impacts your strategy, forcing you to constantly adapt rather than just focusing on expansion. Those unexpected challenges really keep the gameplay fresh.

Imperator Rome does have its moments, but I agree, it often feels like it's missing that spark that keeps EU4 enthralling. The withdrawal of support from Paradox is definitely a bummer for a lot of fans. Have you explored any other mods or similar games in the Paradox portfolio that spark the same level of interest for you? 🌍✨

[Skinhead-1979]

I have had some success with 'Hearts of Iron 3'; but I have not been successful, or the game simply wasn't engaging enough, with other Paradox titles.

Crusader Kings revolves too much around managing a Dynasty; it is the one feature I do not like about Imperator Rome (other than not being able to build in rebellious provinces; I struggle to bring happiness back up)

I feel overwhelmed when I start up 'Heart of Iron IV' and 'Stellaris', and cannot get into those games.

Victoria sounds interesting, I am also interested in the time period, but by the sounds of it the game involves a lot of heavy Micromanaging.

Age of Wonders: I've played it for a bit; but just didn't catch my attention enough.

[Nikki1989]

No, video games are instant boredom for me.

[Skinhead-1979]

As is the case with everything, [PC] games are not for everyone 😉