Victoria 3

Victoria 3 from 2022 is a modern return to the Victorian century that takes over the basic idea of its predecessor – an economy driven by population groups and production chains – and builds it on reworked, more accessible foundations. The player manages raw materials, factories, and trade routes similarly to the second game, but with a clearer interface, a clearer link between economy and politics, and without having to decipher decades-old menus that still keep the second game out of reach for the average player.

Warfare is deliberately simplified compared to the economic part and takes place more in the background than as the main focus of play, which split the series' fans after release – some appreciated the emphasis on economy, trade, and diplomacy, others missed the deeper military system they were used to from the older Victoria II and its detailed battles. Paradox has gradually improved the game since release with updates and expansions that address both the balance of economy and diplomacy and the missing content and community feedback, so the game has noticeably transformed since launch.

Even with its initial shortcomings, Victoria 3 today offers the most accessible way to try an economic grand strategy of the 19th century without having to fight an archaic interface of the older entry. For players whom the second game's complexity put off, it means considerably less time before they get their bearings in the systems and truly start to understand and enjoy the game.

Why play it: A good choice for players who want an economically focused grand strategy with modern controls and don't mind that warfare plays second fiddle here.