Victoria 3 announced by Paradox Interactive, coming day one to Xbox Game Pass

Victoria, the grand strategy society simulation series from Paradox Interactive set in the 19th century, is finally getting a third entry. Following years of requests by its passionate community, the strategy game specializing publisher surprise unveiled Victoria 3 with an announcement trailer during its PDXCON Remixed presentation today in the closing act.

Much like in the previous games, the new entry will have players keeping track of and providing for national populations that have their own political and material preferences, with a much higher focus on state management than war (Hearts of Iron) or roleplaying (Crusader Kings). Considering its depth, Paradox has helpfully provided a handy list of features Victoria 3 will have when it comes out:

• Deep Societal Simulation: Cultural, economic and ideological divisions compete for power and resources in one of Paradox’s most detailed historical worlds.
• Tend Your National Garden: Nurture your population, educating it and preparing it for the future, guaranteeing their prosperity and improving their happiness.
• Wonders of the Industrial Age: Scientific and social progress give you the chance to improve the lives of your citizens.
• Sophisticated Economic System: Import goods to keep costs low, export goods to enrich your citizens, and then tax that wealth to advance your plans.
• Challenging Diplomacy: Maintain harmonious relations with your neighbors or provoke a crisis to grab valuable resources or force open new markets.
• Political Dealmaking: Manage competing interests in your government, opening up new reforms but risking revolution if key voices are not heard.
• Detailed and Living World: Cities grow and factories darken the landscape on a beautifully drawn map of the 19th century globe. Play any of dozens of nations from 183 and try to claim your place in the sun.

Paradox Development Studio is helming the project, promising an experience that won't be too daunting to newbies. Unfortunately for fans, Paradox does not have a launch window yet for Victoria 3, as the game is still too early in development. There is a Steam page already available though, great for anyone who wants to wishlist the PC exclusive.

Paradox also announced that alongside Steam, the game will land on Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass for PC subscription program at launch in a similar fashion to Crusader Kings 3.