Paradox Interactive has long been a name synonymous with expansive 4X and grand strategy games, known for their enduring titles that thrive on a steady stream of downloadable content (DLC). While the execution of this strategy has faced its share of challenges—most notably with Europa Universalis IV—Johan Andersson, the lead for Europa Universalis V, maintains a positive outlook on the company’s DLC approach. In a recent conversation with PC Gamer’s Joshua Wolens, Andersson expressed confidence in the model, stating it has proven to be “pretty great.”
DLC as a Strategic Advantage
Reflecting on the evolution of Paradox, Andersson noted the studio’s humble beginnings, where a mere dozen individuals were tasked with developing titles like Crusader Kings II and Europa Universalis IV. Fast forward to today, Paradox has expanded significantly, boasting a workforce that numbers in the hundreds and five internal development teams. This growth has not only transformed the company but has also refined its approach to DLC.
Andersson highlighted the autonomy the DLC model affords game directors. “It means that you, as a game director in charge of your project, can have complete control over when you want to release stuff,” he explained. This flexibility allows directors to determine the scope and timing of releases, ensuring that their teams can deliver high-quality products.
However, the journey has not been without its missteps. Andersson acknowledged that early expansions, such as Conquest of Paradise, were experimental in nature. “We were trying to find our way,” he admitted, recalling the challenges of creating a random map for the New World. Over time, the team adapted to player feedback, though this reactive approach did not always yield the desired outcomes. He pointed to Mare Nostrum as an example of a DLC that fell flat, describing it as “boring, mid”—a product that garnered neither strong dislike nor affection from players.
Looking Ahead to Europa Universalis V
As the conversation shifted to the upcoming Europa Universalis V, Andersson addressed potential concerns regarding players transitioning from a fully developed EU4 save to the more basic EU5 experience. He reassured fans that this is not a significant worry, as most features introduced in EU4 through patches or free updates will either be retained or replaced in the new iteration.
When discussing the future of EU5’s DLC plans, Andersson expressed optimism about the longevity of the Paradox model. “I think that EU5 can be a good long-term platform,” he remarked. With a wealth of countries and historical narratives to explore, he envisions a supportive framework that will enable the development of content for many years to come.
