Want to try and ally with the USSR or invade them? Want to change your system of government entirely? Think early development of nukes would have changed everything? HoI4 gives you the ability to explore the grand strategy of World War 2 using Paradox’s “Clausewitz” engine for simulating global strategy and development. Hearts of Iron IV, the latest game from Paradox, puts you into the head of someone fighting World War 2 and gives you a surprising number of options and opportunities for strategic thought. All of these things are difficult, require massive investment and make you feel accomplished. There’s nothing quite like sinking your first carrier, completing an encirclement, causing a superpower to capitulate or dropping the world’s first atomic bomb.

Hearts of Iron IV is the most fun you’ll have taking over the world.