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): $14.99
Current Players: 5k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Mixed(68%)
economic simulation
visual appeal
political management
frequent updates
repetitive grind
AI behavior
updates instability
war system
tutorial inadequacy
technical issues
DLC-heavy model
Overall, the reviews paint the economic and political simulation of Victoria 3 as a standout feature, praised for its depth and engagement. However, the military systems are a common point of criticism due to their lack of depth and control. Additionally, the game's reliance on DLCs for a complete experience is noted, which negatively affects some players' opinions. Updates have improved the game significantly over time, yet they also introduce new bugs and performance issues, pointing to ongoing development challenges. While praised for its historical immersion, the game's learning curve and technical issues are repeatedly highlighted, suggesting a mixed reception overall.

Positive Points

  • The economic simulation is praised as a highly detailed and engaging feature, providing a rich experience for players interested in economy management.
  • Graphics and UI receive positive feedback for being visually appealing, contributing to the immersive experience of the game.
  • Many players find the political and society management systems rewarding, as they closely simulate historical events and dynamics.
  • Frequent updates and DLCs have significantly improved the game over time by adding depth and new mechanics.
  • Negative Points

  • The war and military systems are widely criticized for being unengaging and not offering the depth and control expected in a grand strategy game.
  • The game's tutorials are seen as insufficient, leaving new players confused about core mechanics and requiring them to seek external guides.
  • Some players experience technical issues, such as crashes on certain operating systems, and complain about poor optimization.
  • The game is criticized for its DLC-heavy model, where crucial features appear to be locked behind paid expansions.
  • Mixed Points

  • While many appreciate the depth of the economic systems, others feel that it becomes a repetitive grind.
  • The diplomacy system is seen as promising, but often criticized for AI behavior that breaks immersion.
  • Updates have improved the game, but they also introduce instability, with new bugs and balance issues appearing.
  • Common Themes

  • The game's approach to modeling the Victorian era's socio-economic environment is a major selling point, successfully drawing players who enjoy historical simulation.
  • There is a consensus that war mechanics and AI need significant rework to make the game fully realize its potential.
  • Players often mention the necessity of DLCs to unlock the game's full potential, indicating both a positive and negative perception of Paradox's business model.
  • Updated 12/12/2025, 12:01:53 AM UTC