Paradox Interactive has fired off the next installment in their popular World War II grand strategy game series: Hearts of Iron IV. The game released today, June 6th, 2016 — exactly 72 years after the beginning of Operation Overlord and the D-Day landings in Normandy. In addition to the full game, the release will also include the first DLC, “Poland: United and Ready” for free.
One of the major changes to the game includes a new “Battleplan System” that will allow players to create and execute battle plans. Presumably this will take some of the micromanagement out of the game and allow your AI commanders a bit more freedom to make decisions within the context of the plan.
In addition, the game will include two historical campaigns. One begins in 1936 and allows players to build up for the coming war. The other begins in 1939, when the hostilities are really ramping up. The first expansion pass is also for sale, which includes access to the first two expansion packs once they are released.
Paradox is also offering three different editions of the game. The Cadet, Colonel, and Field Marshal Editions each come with an assortment of cosmetic in-game updates, forum icons, and a fancy art book featuring art from the game. Historically there has been quite a bit of DLC content released for the Hearts of Iron games. It appears this trend will continue into the foreseeable future.
Hearts if Iron IV should appeal to fans of the series and fans of grand strategy games in general. So, go forth little soldiers and remember the words of Dwight D. Eisenhower:
“I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty, and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory.”
Take a look at the game’s website for more information.
