Europa Universalis V Announced by Paradox

Paradox Interactive has officially unveiled Europa Universalis 5 as its next major grand strategy title, confirming last week's teaser.

The studio, known for franchises like Cities: Skylines, Crusader Kings, and Stellaris, revealed the latest installment with an expansive cinematic trailer. Development is being handled by Spain-based Paradox Tinto, the team that has supported Europa Universalis 4 in recent years. Though a release date is still to be announced, the Europa Universalis 5 Steam page is already live.

“Test your strategic abilities across five centuries of history in Europa Universalis 5, the newest edition of the acclaimed grand strategy series,” reads a statement from Paradox. “Excel in warfare, trade, diplomacy, and governance in the most expansive and intricately detailed Europa Universalis experience to date. Direct the fate of hundreds of nations and societies within a remarkably deep and complex simulation of a living world.”

Paradox Tinto has been developing Europa Universalis 5 for over five years, aiming to create an experience “tailored for dedicated Paradox fans.” The studio incorporated “over a year of public feedback,” emphasizing that community input significantly shaped what it describes as “the largest and most detailed Europa Universalis game ever created.”

The Europa Universalis 5 campaign starts in 1337, at the onset of the Hundred Years’ War. As players guide their peoples through pivotal historical events, they'll encounter a host of new gameplay mechanics. Key announcements from today include a larger, more geographically accurate map featuring hundreds of unique societies. This iteration introduces a population-driven system, enhanced production mechanics, and improved trade systems, allowing players to establish their influence by constructing farms, plantations, and factories or engaging in regional commerce.

All these improvements aim to deliver a strategy experience where players can freely shape and govern their nation as they choose. Last week's teaser hinted at an “ambitious” new Paradox project, though many fans had already correctly predicted the announcement.

Europa Universalis V - First Screenshots

View 19 Images

“Europa Universalis 5 expands on the series’ foundational concept of guiding historically inspired nations to prosperity,” the description adds, “with enhanced diplomatic systems, a more nuanced economic model, a reimagined military structure, and deeper logistical challenges that will engage even seasoned strategy veterans.”

Europa Universalis 5 is slated to launch on PC at a future date. While awaiting further updates, you can read our hands-on preview here.