EUIV, as with all paradox games, is the best representation of it's setting if you like depth of mechanics & diversity of playthroughs. Almost every part of the map has it's own unique mechanics and playstyle, and many parts of the world (especially Europe) have neighbouring nations which play completely differently. 280 hours in and explored maybe 1% of the game. (I got the base game and all pre-Emperor DLCs on sale for 17$. I would recommend you get the base game to try out, then DLCs on sale. They add soooo much replayability.)

EUIV, as with all paradox games, is the best representation of it's setting if you like depth of mechanics & diversity of playthroughs. Almost every part of the map has it's own unique mechanics and playstyle, and many parts of the world (especially Europe) have neighbouring nations which play completely differently. 280 hours in and explored maybe 1% of the game. (I got the base game and all pre-Emperor DLCs on sale for 17$. I would recommend you get the base game to try out, then DLCs on sale. They add soooo much replayability.)