Hearts of Iron IV
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Multi-player
Co-op
Cross-Platform Multiplayer
Steam Achievements
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Workshop
Steam Cloud
Remote Play on Tablet
Family Sharing

Victory is at your fingertips! Your ability to lead your nation is your supreme weapon, the strategy game Hearts of Iron IV lets you take command of any nation in World War II; the most engaging conflict in world history.

Developers: Paradox Development Studio
Publishers: Paradox Interactive
Release Date: Jun 6, 2016
Price (USD): $14.99
Current Players: 49k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(91%)
grand strategy
modding community
WWII simulation
complexity
alternate history
user interface
expensive DLCs
steep learning curve
frequent updates
Hearts of Iron IV offers a deep and immersive grand strategy experience that is beloved by many strategy fans for its historical depth and strategic complexity. However, the high cost of DLCs and frequent updates frustrate many players who feel these should be integrated into the base game. The steep learning curve also presents a barrier, leading to mixed feelings about the game's accessibility. Despite its flaws, its mod community and strategic options make it a standout title in the genre.

Positive Points

  • Many players find the game to be a highly detailed and immersive grand strategy experience, particularly appreciating its historical depth and strategic planning focus.
  • The game is praised for its modding community, offering extensive mods that enhance and expand the gameplay, providing virtually endless replayability.
  • Hearts of Iron IV is considered one of the best in its genre for World War II simulation, offering a unique experience for strategy enthusiasts.
  • Negative Points

  • There is widespread criticism about the high number of expensive DLCs, which many players feel are necessary for a full experience, leaving the base game feeling incomplete.
  • The game is noted for its steep learning curve, which can be intimidating and confusing for new players, particularly the mechanics related to the navy and tutorial shortcomings.
  • Players express frustration over frequent updates that break save games and mods, requiring players to constantly adapt to new changes which can feel unnecessary.
  • Mixed Points

  • While many enjoy the immense strategy and roleplaying possibilities, others find the overall complexity and user interface daunting and difficult to navigate, affecting the initial enjoyment.
  • The focus on alternate history scenarios is both praised for its creativity and criticized for sometimes detracting from historical accuracy.
  • Common Themes

  • The complex nature of the game and its learning curve are consistently mentioned, with players either embracing the challenge or feeling overwhelmed.
  • The high cost of DLCs and the perceived requirement to purchase them for a complete experience is a major point of contention among players.
  • Despite its challenges, the game is viewed as a must-play for strategy fans due to its depth and the freedom to explore various strategic paths.
  • Updated 11/25/2025, 12:01:01 AM UTC