by: Robert Zacny

For some, Europa Universalis 3, the popular grand strategy game from Paradox Interactive known for its depth, complexity, and general aura of intimidation, still isn’t complicated or historical enough. For those grognards of grognards, EU3 is a mere casual jaunt through history – along the same realism spectrum of Panzer General; a true beer and pretzels game.

If you fall into that category, Paradox has heard your complaints and commissioned a former mod team for EU3 to produce a strategy title worthy of the name: Magna Mundi.

Actually, it's possible that I'm misreading the intent behind Magna Mundi, but at first glance it certainly does sound like a "coals to Newcastle" project designed to take an already daunting history simulator and make it even more of a simulation for history buffs. However, the more I think about it, the more I actually think it is probably a great idea.

Magna Mundi looks more like a total conversion mod to EU3, although the developers at Universo Virtual are quick to take umbrage at that description. Former EU modders, they have received access to Paradox's source code to create a very different game. Whereas Europa Universalis has always been focused on foreign relations and empire-building, Magna Mundi is focused on the messy details and compromises of national governance, and the chaotic influence of great historical events.