Paradox Interactive has unveiled its highly anticipated grand strategy game, Europa Universalis 5, following a tantalizing tease posted last week. The renowned publisher, known for titles such as Cities: Skylines, Crusader Kings, and Stellaris, provided a glimpse into the next installment with a sweeping cinematic trailer. Developed by Paradox Tinto in Barcelona, Spain, the team responsible for aiding in the development of Europa Universalis 4, the game's Europa Universalis 5 Steam page is already live, although no specific release date has been announced.

“Challenge your strategic skills over 500 years of history, in Europa Universalis 5, the latest version of the celebrated grand strategy game,” the official description from Paradox states. “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 in development for over five years at Paradox Tinto, with the team emphasizing that the game has been crafted "with the devoted Paradox fan in mind." The developers have taken into account "over a year of public discussion," ensuring that the public's input has significantly shaped what they describe 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. As players navigate their chosen nation through pivotal historical events, they will have access to a host of new features. Today's reveal highlighted a new, larger map that utilizes accurate map projection, featuring hundreds of different societies. Paradox has introduced a population-based system, along with enhanced production and trade systems, allowing players to establish farms, plantations, and factories or engage in trade with neighboring regions.

The goal is to offer a strategy experience where players have the freedom to build and manage their nation as they see fit. Last week, the project was teased as mysterious and “ambitious,” though fans had largely figured out what was in store beforehand.

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. While awaiting further updates, you can delve into our hands-on preview here.