The World War has not yet begun, but is well on its way. The second scenario, Blitzkrieg, takes place after the Italian annexation of Ethiopia, German expansion in central Europe, Japanese invasion of China, and the Spanish Civil War. The only war in progress is the Italian invasion of Ethiopia, Germany has yet to make the annexations and political overtures which lead to war with Poland, France, and Britain, and the Empire of Japan is not engaged in open hostilities with China.

Gathering Storm has you in 1936, and the world will never look the same. The first choice made is the scenario, of which there are two at this time. These influence starting date, difficulty, and how historically focused the AI’s behavior will be. Game Setupīefore beginning to face the trials and tribulations of war, you make options which will determine the experience in this particular campaign. The two scenarios so far released begin in 19 and include as playable every country which existed in those years. In the game, you guide the country of your choosing through World War II and into the postwar world.

It is the fourth numbered and sixth official entry in the series, which includes two mods for the second entry, published by Paradox. Hearts of Iron IV is the latest Second World War simulation game from the famous grand strategy development studio Paradox Interactive.