All Europa Universalis Games, Ranked

Grand strategy is at the core of this series. Paradox's Europa Universalis lets you reshape history one province at a time, guiding nations through diplomacy, trade, colonization, and conquest across centuries. With each new entry, the series has grown more intricate and immersive, layering depth into its political, military, and economic systems. From its 2000 debut to the highly anticipated Europa Universalis V, the franchise has defined Paradox's legacy as a pioneer of historical grand strategy. Here's a look at every Europa Universalis game released so far.

10. Europa Universalis 2000

The original Europa Universalis was based on Philippe Thibaut’s board game and spanned the period from 1492 to 1792. For its time, it was revolutionary, giving players control of entire nations instead of single battles. Trade, colonization, and diplomacy were just as important as warfare. While multiplayer was unstable, the game’s scope shocked strategy fans and built a passionate online community.

9. Europa Universalis IV: Dharma Content Pack

The EU: Dharma Content Pack is amazing. Additionally, it shows the best parts of India. It brought dozens of new unit models for Indian powers like Bengal, Mysore, and Vijayanagar. On top of that, you get special counsel portraits. Vibrant map visuals set India apart from the generic European art style. When paired with the Dharma expansion, these visuals make subcontinental campaigns pop with personality. The models are very pretty. Additionally, they help you track different cultures and armies at first sight. 

8. Europa Universalis IV: Leviathan

The title had a rough launch. However, after numerous upgrades, it has become a valuable political asset. It's all about playing tall and also letting you pour development into one province. You can get huge bonuses that way. Diplomatic plays feel better as well. Players can earn favor with great powers. You can also steal colonies or extort subjects for cash. Monuments like Angkor Wat or Versailles now act as game-changing wonders that shape empires. Regency councils are less of a drag thanks to reworks. Full action also rewards those who love micromanaging.

7. Europa Universalis IV: El Dorado

If you enjoy campaigns in the New World, El Dorado flips the script. The game lets you build custom Native nations from scratch. You include flags, rulers, and national ideas. Spain and Portugal thrive on treasure fleets. However, daring players can raid those gold convoys for huge payouts. Explorers will enjoy the search for the Seven Cities of Gold. That also pulls them deeper into the fog of war. Some tasks demand bloody sacrifices before you can reform the area. Every run feels wildly different.

10. Europa Universalis IV: Rights of Man

Rights of Man introduced character into monarchs. It also changed how rulers are treated forever. Kings and queens now come with different traits that shift how nations play out. Prussia's military systems also improved. Additionally, it gave the nation a clear identity as a disciplined powerhouse. Great Powers also received better diplomatic options. That lets you influence or bully minor states from afar. Aside from that, the Coptic nations have finally received unique religious bonuses. Thus, adding more reasons to try Ethiopia. The DLC also features more depth into subject nations. That made them more than passive workers.

5. Europa Universalis II (2001)

Europa Universalis II keeps things old-school. It aired back in 2001 on their classic engine. It is set between 1419 and 1820. You get more ground than in the first game. You trade, colonize, wage wars, and mold national identity as Europe becomes a colonial powerhouse. The gameplay is simple. But it carries so much history. Scripted events in the match make it more exciting. For many, it remains one of Paradox's most faithful historical sims. It proved that even a stripped-down approach can have a deep level of gameplay. Pure old-school strategy gaming joy. 

4. Europa Universalis III (2007)

The title was unveiled in 2007. Paradox used a new engine when creating it. Additionally, they introduced random monarchs, deep-seated national ideas, and intricate trade systems. They also included dev maps. Play as Spain and watch colonization ripple across the world, just like in  Divine Rush or In Nomine. Mod support was also quite strong. Still worth firing up for missions-only fun. The move to Clausewitz also introduced a fully 3D map. It felt revolutionary back then. Then, expansions later added leagues, cultural shifts, and Asian flavor.

3. Europa Universalis: Rome (2008)

Europa Universalis: Rome is an excellent game if you're interested in classical history. It was released in 2008. It's set from 280 BC to 27 BC. You control units from Carthage to Egypt. Additionally, you work with the Senate, manage politics, and launch wars. The mission system adds a narrative touch. Its narrow focus makes it tight and epic at once. Characters also matter. Generals and governors have plans that can destabilize the empire. Religion and culture play significant roles in land management. 

2. Europa Universalis V

Europa Universalis V is the next big step for the series, currently in development at Paradox Tinto under Johan Andersson’s lead. It’s expected to push history further back, starting in 1337, with sharper map detail, deeper politics, and new systems that let rivers, farmland, and terrain directly influence battles. Paradox has teased more player control over diplomacy, while offering optional automation for war and economy, allowing you to focus on what matters most. Loyal subjects might betray you, inner politics may be as dangerous as foreign wars, and the world will shift based on your playstyle. While the full release is still ahead, it’s shaping up to be one of the most ambitious grand strategy games ever.

1. Europa Universalis IV

Europa Universalis IV is an amazing game. Paradox released it in 2013. It spans the years from 1444 to 1821. You take nations across the Age of Discovery, wars, and empires. However, diplomacy, trade, colonization, religion, and warfare systems underwent significant improvements. You can marry states, build trade empires, or use spying to start revolts. Relying on art like Art of War or Mare Nostrum adds replay and depth. Fans still log in daily. EU4 remains the best, most supported title in the series. The game also has a nice modding scene.