From the moment I first opened the game, I was filled with awe at the complete complexity of the intricate systems that manage the massive economies across the globe. The design aesthetic of the map was wonderfully delightful, a symphony for the eyes as much as the soundtrack was for the ears.

Although everything was complicating and confusing at first, as they all say, fortune favors the prepared. I had spent many long hours poring over every single page in the Victoria 3 wiki previous to “privateering” it. Therefore, I was quickly able to conclude that the way to solve the annoying shortages that were plaguing my economy was to build specific buildings to increase supply of certain goods.

After several horrible games as Prussia, Shewa, and the Qing Empire, I finally decided to play as Mexico, a nation where my primary issue regarding money was that I had an excess of it due to my lucrative gold mining industry, to the point where I was forced into the position of bankrolling Britain to clear up my gold reserves.

I can say for certain that Victoria 3 was extremely well-planned and designed. The gameplay is rich and in-depth, bringing to life the Victorian era better than any previous game could.

I do have some minor criticisms, namely the lackluster warfare, although I will say that warfare is not a large focus of the game, and there’s much satisfaction to be extracted from staring at numbers get smaller as your superior armies devastate those of your opponents.

In conclusion, Victoria 3 is one of the best, if not the best, grand strategy games ever made. I would encourage you to buy it if you haven’t already, or, if you’re so inclined, obtain it through other means.