Victoria 3
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Multi-player
PvP
Online PvP
Cross-Platform Multiplayer
Steam Achievements
Steam Workshop
Color Alternatives
Custom Volume Controls
Adjustable Difficulty
Keyboard Only Option
Mouse Only Option
Playable without Timed Input
Save Anytime
Stereo Sound
Surround Sound
Steam Cloud
Family Sharing

Paradox Development Studio invites you to build your ideal society in the tumult of the exciting and transformative 19th century. Balance the competing interests in your society and earn your place in the sun in Victoria 3, one of the most anticipated games in Paradox’s history.

Developers: Paradox Development Studio
Publishers: Paradox Interactive
Release Date: Oct 25, 2022
Price (USD): $49.99
Current Players: 9.3k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Mixed(68%)
economic simulation
1.9 update
Charters of Commerce
trade system
visuals
steep learning curve
complex systems
multiplayer issues
strategy depth
tutorial inadequacy
warfare system
performance issues
high DLC cost
poor optimization
crashes
Reviews show a mixture of sentiments about Victoria 3. The economic simulation and updates like the 1.9 patch receive praise, enhancing the game's depth. However, major criticisms are directed at the warfare system, ongoing performance issues, and the high cost of necessary DLCs. The game presents a complex learning curve that some find rewarding but others overwhelming, underscoring mixed appeals to both strategy newcomers and veterans.

Positive Points

  • The game has been significantly improved with the latest updates, particularly patch 1.9 and the Charters of Commerce DLC, making it more enjoyable and a complete grand strategy experience.
  • Victoria 3 excels in economic simulation, with a complex and rewarding system that is satisfying for players who enjoy managing economies.
  • The updated trade and treaty systems have received praise for making diplomacy and international relations more engaging and diverse.
  • The game is visually appealing with detailed graphics and a complex political system, offering a unique experience compared to other strategy games.
  • Negative Points

  • The game at launch faced severe issues, with many players noting it was released in an unfinished and poorly optimized state.
  • The warfare system is widely criticized for being shallow and less engaging, acting more as a background feature rather than an active part of gameplay.
  • Frequent crashes and performance issues persist, with some players experiencing whole system freezes, particularly on PC setups with certain configurations.
  • There are complaints about the cost of DLCs, which many feel are necessary to enhance the game, leading to frustration over Paradox's monetization strategy.
  • Mixed Points

  • While some players appreciate the depth and detail of the political and economic systems, others find them overwhelming and complex, requiring substantial investment to understand fully.
  • The game has a steep learning curve with a tutorial that many find inadequate, making it difficult for new players to engage without external guides or videos.
  • Multiplayer has been cited as unstable and fraught with desync issues, yet remains a preferred way for some to enjoy the game despite these challenges.
  • Common Themes

  • The frequent updates are a strong point, showing ongoing developer support, but players are divided on whether these improvements justify the initial release issues.
  • Economic management is a central theme, appreciated by those who enjoy strategy focused on resource allocation and political development.
  • The need for comprehensive DLCs and patches to complete the gaming experience is a recurring theme, leading to discussions about the game's value for money.
  • Victoria 3 is often compared to its predecessor, with players noting both advancements and regressions, particularly in military and war mechanics.
  • Updated 9/24/2025, 12:03:07 AM UTC