So for me it has to be CK2, HOI3, HOI2, Vic 2, EU3, EU:Rome in that order. All of the other Paradox games, with the exception of HOI2/3 are missing this kind of immersion in my opinion. You get very involved in your families progress over time it really pulls you into the game. But whereas Vic 2 concetrated on pop and polics Crusader Kings 2 concetrates on families and intrigue and its far more addictive for that. It has interesting warfare but like Vic 2 it isnt the overiding emphasis of the game.

HOI3 features much smaller scale gameplay as well with divisions and unit structure, combat effects, and research is purely combat based.īut to completely throw your original question a screw ball I would say that Crusader Kings beats them both.

Yes there are wars in Vic 2 and conflicts, but they are all just parts of the overall picture of your development rather than the overriding gameplay. Because HOI3 is mainly a wargame whereas in Vic 2 war takes second place to expansion, exploration, politics, population, etc. Yeah it depends on what time frame you prefer to play most importantly and then also whether you want a wargame or a civilisation simulator.

Hearts of iron 2 vs 3