After three long years, Paradox’s grand strategy title has reached a stable standing on Steam, and the studio is celebrating with a major course correction planned for 2026.

There are many studios dedicated to creating strategy games, but throughout its history, Paradox has not only delivered some of the genre’s most influential titles, it has also built a reputation for producing games defined by depth and complexity. That does not mean every release has landed perfectly, however. Victoria 3 became one of Paradox’s most controversial launches, but three years later the studio can finally say the project has found its footing and is ready to return to its “main path” in 2026.

Released in 2022 amid enormous expectations, Victoria 3 also arrived burdened by significant issues. Coming twelve years after its predecessor, the game launched with unreliable AI, a difficult-to-read economic system, and design choices that sharply divided the community. Since then, a series of major expansions and updates have reshaped the experience, including Sphere of Influence, Charters of Commerce, the 1.12 update, and the Iberian Twilight immersion pack. As a result, the game’s Steam rating has climbed to 82 percent positive, finally shedding its long-standing “mixed reviews” label.

Paradox has described recent months as an “autumn and winter of side quests”, a period focused on polishing systems, fixing bugs, and reinforcing the foundations of the game. The goal has been to prepare the ground for larger updates that will once again bring Victoria 3 into the spotlight. The studio has confirmed that update 1.13, scheduled for early 2026, will represent the definitive return to the game’s main development trajectory.

While many details remain under wraps, Paradox has confirmed that major naval updates are on the way, introducing new strategies for players interested in maritime expansion. According to the studio, the naval aspect of the game will be one of the key development focuses next year, with a full twelve-month roadmap set to be revealed in early 2026.

Victoria 3 Is Available for Less Than €15

For those who have yet to dive into Victoria 3, now is an ideal opportunity. As part of the Steam Winter Sale, the game is available with a 70 percent discount for just €14.99. Players looking for a more complete package can also opt for the Starter Edition, which includes the American Buildings Pack, Sphere of Influence, and the Colossus of the South DLCs, priced at €25.99 instead of its usual €64.99.