14 DAY TRIAL // One of the biggest “problems” with Europa Universalis IV is that I tend to stare at the screen that launches the single-player campaign wondering, sometimes aloud: What country and what strategy should I choose today?
The decision is an important one because it will influence how I approach at least 4 to 5 hours of my gaming time (more if the campaign goes well) and is very difficult because of the variety that Europa Universalis IV offers.
France is always a good choice, because it’s a big country with extensive resources set in the middle of Europe that can focus on warfare to gain new territory but can also explore a little or try to become a trading power.
The rivalry with England is also one of the main driving forces of European history during the period and either of them is a solid choice for newcomers.
I have always loved to play Bohemia, a second rate power that can become very strong as long as it can seize the leadership of the Holy Roman Empire and then expand it towards the East.
Aragon is an interesting choice because it allows players to focus more on their navy in the Mediterranean and easy expansion can be conducted into the North of Africa and then into southern France.
The Ottomans are also attractive because they don’t have to worry about the Pope and they can become a terrifying force in the East, ready to take over Europe as long as they can keep up in terms of technology.
The five countries I have mentioned are just a few of the potential choices offered by Europa Universalis IV, a game that impresses even before the campaign itself is actually launched.
And the variety and potential to explore interesting ideas and mechanics only expands after this initial selection.