When I think of strategy games and WW2, I’m always drawn to Hearts of Iron 4. The grand strategy game transports us to the frontlines of World War II in what’s quite easily some of the best historical simulation you can play today. You don’t need to just take my word for it either. In the eight years since launch, HoI 4 has earned a staggering 91% positive rating from over 220,000 Steam reviews. If you love Stellaris, Crusader Kings, Europa Universalis and any other Paradox epics, now’s the perfect time to give Hearts of Iron 4 a shot. Not only does it have a new DLC and deep sale, but it’s also the most popular it’s ever been.
In the last few days, Hearts of Iron 4 has achieved a new concurrent player peak on Steam, with 93,196 players logging in at the same time. The grand strategy game‘s player count has been steadily increasing since its launch in 2016, but the newest DLC has helped propel it to new heights. It also helps that the game is dirt cheap in a Steam sale.
If you’re yet to play it, the new Hearts of Iron 4 Götterdämmerung DLC focuses on Germany during WW2. The country’s focus tree has been revised, so you can take a monarchist, democratic, fascist, or militarist stance when ruling. Countries like Austria, Hungary, Belgium, and the Republic of the Congo also have new focus trees, helping you guide each through alternate histories.
You can also build scientific facilities for “special projects” like nuclear physics, more advanced aircraft, improved artillery and tanks, and leaps forward in naval engineering. Götterdämmerung also features raids, which you can use for strikes on vital enemy targets via commando assaults, paratrooper deployments, or bombing runs.
Hearts of Iron 4 is 70% off until Wednesday November 27, so you can expect to pay $14.99 / £12.59 until then. The game’s Götterdämmerung DLC is also out now. You can find it all right here.
We’ve also got lists for the best war games and strategy games on PC today, if you want even more action.
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