Complete Newcomer's
EU5 Guide
Is Europa Universalis 5 Right for You? Honest analysis based on professional reviews and real player experiences
The Invisible Hand of History
Europa Universalis 5 is a historical grand strategy game where you control a nation from 1337 to 1837 CE
Think of it as...
Being the invisible hand guiding an entire country through 500 years of history - making decisions about wars, trade, diplomacy, and internal politics.
See EU5 in Action
Watch these before reading further to understand what you're getting into
Complete Beginner Tutorial
Start here if you've never played a grand strategy game
Your First Campaign
How to approach your first game without feeling overwhelmed
⚠️ Watch These First
These videos will give you a realistic preview of the game's complexity. If they feel overwhelming, EU5 might not be for you.
IGN's Warning for Newcomers
Even 2000+ hour EU4 veterans need significant time to learn
"EU5 is for certified grand strategy sickos – and aspiring grand strategy sickos – only. [...] Even [with] over 2000 hours in EU4, it took about an hour before I even felt comfortable unpausing EU5."
— IGN's Expert Reviewer
If you've never played a Paradox game
Expect a steep learning curve
Even strategy veterans
Need significant time to learn
The game philosophy
Doesn't apologize for complexity
The New Player Reality Check
Honest self-assessment before you buy
✅ You Might Love EU5 If You:
❌ You Probably Won't Enjoy EU5 If You:
The $60 Question
Cost per hour analysis and purchase timing
Steam Price: $59.99 USD
Cost effectiveness depends on how much you'll actually play
"I wouldn't blame anyone for waiting six months for a little more polish before diving in."
— IGN's Advice for Buyers
✅ Buy Now If:
⏰ Wait 6 Months If:
Not Ready Yet?
Easier entry points to grand strategy
What EU5 Is
Control a nation through 500 years of history (1337-1837). Make decisions about wars, trade, and politics.
The Reality
"For grand strategy sickos only"
— IGN Review
The Investment
$60 + 50+ hours learning
Worth it if you love complexity
Are You Ready for EU5?
Quick personality check
Perfect Match
Love Learning
Patient
Historical Interest
Long-term Goals
Not For You
Want Action
Easily Frustrated
Instant Results
Dislike Reading
Is It Worth $60?
Value depends on your playing style
50+ Hours Played
Great Value!
10 Hours Played
Decent Value
5 Hours & Quit
Expensive Lesson
IGN Expert Advice
"I wouldn't blame anyone for waiting six months for a little more polish before diving in."
Your Success Roadmap
Three simple steps to EU5 mastery
Before You Buy
First 10 Hours
Build Confidence
Make Your Decision
Buy EU5 Now If You:
Wait or Try Alternatives If You:
What's Next?
Take action based on your decision
💡 Not Sure Yet?
Try Civilization VI or Crusader Kings 3 first to build your strategy game skills, then come back to EU5 later.
"I wouldn't blame anyone for waiting six months for more polish" — IGN Review
Community Discussion
Share your experience and ask questions about EU5