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Hearts of Iron IV, the latest grand strategy wargame from Paradox Interactive, follows in the footsteps of its successful predecessors like Crusader Kings, Europa Universalis, and Victoria. This World War II simulation offers a unique and engaging experience, allowing players to rewrite history and shape the global conflict according to their own strategic vision. Released to coincide with the 70th anniversary of D-Day, Hearts of Iron IV promises a deep and immersive gameplay experience for fans of the genre. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into the details and uncover its strengths and weaknesses.

Economic, Military, and Political Innovations

Hearts of Iron IV builds upon previous iterations with significant gameplay changes, enhancing realism and addressing past limitations. One of the most notable improvements lies within the economic system. The game now distinguishes between civilian and military factories, providing a clearer overview of national production. Civilian factories focus on consumer goods, while military factories produce war materials, enabling players to strategically balance wartime needs with civilian well-being.

alt text describing the production screen with civilian and military factories

Unlike previous entries, players in Hearts of Iron IV must manage the production of military equipment, including aircraft, tanks, ships, infantry weapons, and artillery. This contrasts with earlier titles, where equipment was automatically supplied. The number and output of military factories directly impact production capacity, affecting unit creation and replenishment after battles. This adds a layer of strategic complexity, forcing players to prioritize production based on battlefield needs. For instance, a shortage of tanks might necessitate focusing production on armored divisions or alternatively, bolstering supporting units like artillery and logistics.

alt text showing the production screen with tanks and other military equipment being produced

Trade mechanics have also been refined. Resource scarcity is a constant challenge, requiring players to engage in international trade to secure essential materials. This prevents self-sufficiency and encourages interaction with other nations, adding a diplomatic layer to the economic gameplay.

The political landscape has also received a significant overhaul. Historical events are now triggered through the “National Focus” system, a research tree that allows players to pursue specific political goals and trigger historical or alternate history paths. For example, playing as Germany, players can choose to forge an alliance with the Soviet Union to conquer Britain and France, deviating from the historical narrative. The National Focus system also impacts a nation’s economic and political development, offering diverse paths for players to explore.

alt text displaying the political interface with national focus options

Minister appointments return, albeit with adjustments. Appointing ministers now requires experience points, categorized into political, naval, air force, and army experience. These points are accumulated through ministerial actions and combat performance. “Tech teams” also make a comeback, although their role has shifted from direct research to boosting research speed and enhancing weapon stats. The technology tree remains nation-specific, allowing players to develop unique national doctrines and strategies.

Military command has seen the most dramatic changes. Addressing criticisms of Hearts of Iron III’s cumbersome campaign planning, Hearts of Iron IV streamlines the process and improves AI control. For the first time in the series, players can assign specific fronts to AI control, allowing for more nuanced strategic delegation. Players can task the AI with defending a city while simultaneously launching offensive operations elsewhere, simplifying complex maneuvers.

alt text showing the military interface with unit deployment and front lines

Airpower has also been enhanced, becoming an independent force capable of rapid deployment and strategic bombing. The interface allows for more intuitive control, making air operations more accessible and impactful.

Shortcomings and Areas for Improvement

alt text displaying a screenshot of combat with units engaging

Despite its advancements, Hearts of Iron IV isn’t without flaws. Espionage mechanics, including spy missions, coups, assassinations, and technology theft, have been removed. This is a notable omission, as intelligence operations played a crucial role during World War II. The National Focus system, while robust for major powers, feels underdeveloped for smaller nations, offering limited and often repetitive options.

alt text of the technology research tree in the game

The AI, while improved in military command, still exhibits shortcomings in historical accuracy and strategic decision-making. Despite the historical AI setting, the AI often deviates from expected historical behavior. For instance, Germany might invade Turkey instead of attacking the Soviet Union. This inconsistency detracts from the historical immersion and requires further refinement.

alt text showing a diplomatic interaction screen

Conclusion

Hearts of Iron IV undoubtedly advances the grand strategy genre with its innovative mechanics and refined gameplay. The improvements to economic management, political systems, and military command offer a more engaging and immersive experience. However, the removal of espionage mechanics and the inconsistent AI are notable drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. While these shortcomings need addressing, Hearts of Iron IV remains a compelling and complex wargame that provides countless hours of strategic gameplay. With future updates and DLC, it has the potential to become a truly definitive World War II simulation.