Paradox Interactive has revealed Europa Universalis 5 as its next major grand strategy title, confirming rumors that began with a teaser last week.

The studio, known for franchises like Cities: Skylines, Crusader Kings, and Stellaris, unveiled the next chapter in the series with an expansive cinematic trailer. Development is being handled by Paradox Tinto, based in Barcelona, Spain – the same team that has supported Europa Universalis 4 over recent years. Although no launch date has been announced, the official Europa Universalis 5 Steam page is already live.

“Test your strategic abilities across 500 years of history in Europa Universalis 5, the newest edition of the acclaimed grand strategy series,” describes a statement from Paradox. “Excel in warfare, trade, diplomacy, and governance in the most expansive and intricately detailed Europa Universalis experience to date. Direct the future of hundreds of unique nations and cultures within a simulated world of unmatched depth and complexity.”

Europa Universalis 5 has been in development at Paradox Tinto for more than five years. The team states the game was created “with the dedicated Paradox community in mind,” incorporating “more than a year of public discussion” to help shape what they describe as “the biggest and most detailed Europa Universalis game ever created.”

The campaign in Europa Universalis 5 begins in 1337 at the start of the Hundred Years’ War. As players guide their nation through pivotal moments in history, they’ll have access to a host of new mechanics. Key highlights from the announcement include an expanded world map using accurate projection, featuring hundreds of distinct societies. Paradox has introduced a population-focused system this time, alongside enhanced production and trade systems, allowing players to establish their nation's presence by constructing farms, plantations, and factories or engaging in commerce with nearby regions.

All of these elements aim to deliver a flexible strategy experience that enables players to build and manage their nation as they choose. Last week’s teaser referred to the project as ambitious and enigmatic, though many fans had already accurately predicted the announcement.

Europa Universalis V - First Screenshots

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“Europa Universalis 5 expands on the series’ core idea of growing and evolving nations within a meticulously researched historical setting,” the description adds. “It introduces deeper diplomacy, a more complex economic framework, an improved military structure, and enhanced logistical challenges to test even seasoned strategy veterans.”

Europa Universalis 5 is scheduled to launch on PC at a future date. For more details in the meantime, you can check out our hands-on preview here.