Are there any fans of strategy games here? If so, we have some great news for you!
Paradox Interactive has returned with the latest instalment in its popular Europa Universalis series, which will transport players to an era of discovery, war and great empires. From now on, players can enjoy an extensive world map, lead hundreds of nations, and make countless political, economic, and military decisions that will shape the course of history.
If you want to know everything about the Europa Universalis V release time, available editions, preload options, system requirements, and gameplay changes, read our guide!
What is Europa Universalis V About?
Before we get into the details, let’s talk about the game.
In this latest instalment of Paradox Interactive’s acclaimed grand strategy franchise, you take on the role of a country’s leader and guide it through centuries of development, from the Age of Discovery to the era of powerful empires.
This game teaches you how to build power, conduct diplomacy, trade, wage war and manage internal politics, with each decision having the power to change the fate of the world.
Standard vs Premium Edition
Paradox Interactive has prepared two versions of the game, which differ in terms of content and extras available from the release date.
Players can choose between the Standard Edition and the Premium Edition.
| Feature / Content | Standard Edition | Premium Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Base Game | ✔ | ✔ |
| Instant cosmetic pack (“Sacred Sites”) | ✘ | ✔ |
| DLC #1: “Fate of the Phoenix” (Immersion Pack, Q2 2026) | ✘ | ✔ |
| DLC #2: “Across the Pillars” (Chronicle Pack, Q3 2026) | ✘ | ✔ |
| DLC #3: “The Auld Alliance” (Chronicle Pack, Q4 2026) | ✘ | ✔ |
| Typical MSRP (€) | €59,99 | ≈ €84.99 |
| Best for | Players who just want the core experience | Players who want bonus content + future DLCs included |
The first is for strategists who simply want to start their campaign. It includes the full version of the game, offering access to all basic features, mechanics, and campaigns.
The Premium Edition, on the other hand, is an option for players who want to dive deeper into the game world. In addition to the basic content, it offers access to the first three add-ons and the exclusive “Sacred Sites” cosmetic pack, available on the day of release.
The Premium Edition includes:
- “Fate of the Phoenix” – an expansion focused on Byzantium and its rebirth,
- “Across the Pillars” – a campaign expansion in the Iberian Peninsula,
- “The Auld Alliance” – the history and conflicts between France and Scotland,
- bonus themes and unique units, available from the start of the game.
Thanks to these expansions, fans can spend long hours in Europa Universalis V discovering exactly what the game has to offer.
The Biggest Changes To Gameplay
Developed by Paradox Tinto under the direction of Johan Andersson, Europa Universalis V introduces a variety of improvements and new concepts.
Now, populations have their own religious and cultural structures, extensive estates and complex diplomacy, with a favours system that allows for more realistic relations between countries.
In terms of military improvements, the developers have enhanced sieges and logistics, categorised troops as levies, mercenaries or standing armies, and based the economy on an updated trade goods model.
System Requirements and Game Size
As the game runs on an enhanced Clausewitz engine for smoother gameplay and better optimisation, you will also need the appropriate hardware.
So, before setting out to conquer the world, ensure that your computer meets the minimum requirements:
- Quad-core processor,
- 8 GB of RAM,
- GTX 960 or RX 460 graphics card,
- and approximately 20 GB of free disk space.
Moreover, if you want the best gaming experience, the recommended specs are:
- Intel i5 11600K or a Ryzen 5 5600 processor,
- 16 GB of RAM,
- as well as an RTX 2060 or RX 6600 graphics card.
When Can We Expect Release Date?
We’ve saved the most eagerly awaited announcement until last: the release date. Europa Universalis V will be released on 4 November 2025 on PC via Steam. Players will be able to preload the game 48 hours before launch, allowing them to start the campaign immediately after the global unlock.
The game will support Steam Cloud, achievements, Workshop mods and online co-op and PvP modes. Additionally, Europa Universalis V is rated PEGI 12, making this game suitable for players aged 12 and above due to mild violence and historical themes.
Paradox Interactive has also confirmed that long-term support, including updates, events and community mods, will be also available from the day of release.
Conclusion
That’s all you need to know about Europa Universalis V Release Date.
Now, prepare your strategy, check your equipment and get ready for a big adventure!