Paradox Interactive makes the deepest grand strategy games on the market and I have sunk hundreds of hours into them. The catch is the endless paid DLC, which makes buying in years later feel daunting and pricey. I love the systems but the monetisation leaves me genuinely torn.
Incredibly deep strategy systems
Relentless, costly DLC
Paradox Interactive understands grand strategy better than anyone. The emergent stories that come out of their games are unmatched and I keep going back for one more turn long past midnight. The depth and the community around these titles are second to none.
Unmatched depth and emergent storytelling
Few publishers do simulation and strategy as well as Paradox. Once a game matures it becomes endlessly replayable. My one gripe is that their titles tend to launch a bit unfinished and only hit their stride after a year of patches and expansions.
Deep, replayable sims
Titles launch underbaked
Paradox games reward the time you put into them like nothing else. The systems are intricate and the modding community keeps them alive for years. Only minor complaint is that the learning curve can be intimidating without good in-game tutorials.
Rich systems and strong mod support
Steep learning curve
I really enjoy Paradox's strategy and simulation catalogue, and the support they give games over time is admirable. The only thing holding back full marks is how much a complete edition with all expansions costs. Wait for a sale and you will get incredible value.
Long-term support, deep gameplay
Complete editions are pricey