Events occur continuously, and opposing nations will be gaining a competitive edge while you puzzle over Europa Universalis' nuances. Fortunately, the game's manual is a history buff's delight, offering in-depth essays on the evolution of European politics. Perhaps the game's most challenging aspect is province management. For those unfamiliar with the European landscape, it can also be rather confusing. As leader of Poland, for example, you'll begin the campaign in control of such areas as Danzig and Lithuania.
Provinces serve as centers of trade, finance, taxation and technology.
They also are a source of military manpower, and supply colonists for expansion. Although wars inevitably break out, Europa Universalis is not really a military simulation. Combat is abstract, and likely will not impress military gamers. Moreover, the game system emphasizes the paralyzing effects of war on a nation's stability, economy and technology development. National stability is a key consideration, and is influenced by your diplomatic stance as well as your ability to keep your people happy.