Hearts of Iron IV: Arms Against Tyranny

The main pros of the game

• Focus Trees: Many users praised the revamped focus trees for Finland, Sweden, and Denmark, noting that they add depth and variety to gameplay.
• International Market: The arms market feature received positive feedback for allowing minor nations to trade equipment, which can be beneficial in various scenarios.
• Military Industrial Organizations (MIOs): Some players appreciated the introduction of MIOs, which provide unique bonuses and gameplay mechanics.
• Fun Gameplay: Several reviews highlighted that the DLC is enjoyable, especially for players interested in Nordic countries, and it adds a significant amount of content to the game.
• Visual and Audio Enhancements: Users mentioned that the unit models and music in the DLC are among the best in the series.

The main cons of the game

• MIO Mechanics: A significant number of players found the MIOs to be poorly designed, cumbersome, and requiring excessive micromanagement, detracting from the overall experience.
• Overpowered Focus Trees: Some reviews noted that certain focus trees, particularly Finland's, are overly powerful, leading to unbalanced gameplay.
• International Market Issues: Users expressed frustration with the international market, citing its complexity and lack of effectiveness, especially in single-player mode.
• Price Concerns: Many players felt that the DLC is overpriced for the content it offers and suggested waiting for a sale before purchasing.
• Bugs and Performance Issues: Some reviews mentioned technical problems, including game crashes related to the international market feature.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Depth in Economic Mechanics: Players expressed a desire for more comprehensive economic systems, such as war trade, war bonds, and inflation mechanics, which they felt should have been included in the DLC.
• Improved MIO Functionality: Users wanted more intuitive and engaging MIO systems, with suggestions for better integration into gameplay and less micromanagement.
• Additional Gameplay Options: Some players wished for more diverse paths and options within the focus trees, as well as the ability to sell a wider range of military equipment, including warships.
• Better Tutorials or Guides: A common sentiment was that the new mechanics, particularly the international market, could benefit from clearer instructions or tutorials to help new players understand their functionality.

Summary

• Overall, while "Arms Against Tyranny" has been well-received for its focus trees and some gameplay mechanics, it also faces criticism for balance issues, complexity, and technical problems. Players recommend it for those interested in Scandinavian gameplay but advise caution regarding its price and potential bugs.

Summary generated on: October 30, 2025