EU4: Beginner’s Guide for The Papal State (Ultimate 2024)

Welcome to the captivating world of Europa Universalis IV, where history, strategy, and diplomacy intertwine to create an immersive grand strategy experience. Among the myriad of intriguing nations you can lead, The Papal State stands out as a unique and enthralling choice. This beginner’s guide is your key to unlocking the potential of this ecclesiastical powerhouse, nestled in the heart of the Italian peninsula.

As the spiritual leader of the Catholic world, playing as The Papal State in EU4 offers a distinct blend of religious influence, diplomatic intrigue, and strategic complexity. In this guide, we will navigate through the various aspects of playing as The Papal State, from leveraging your religious authority to forging alliances and managing the intricate balance of power in Europe. Get ready to embrace your role as the Pope, guide the Catholic world, and leave an indelible mark on history. Your journey to becoming a master of the Holy See begins here!

1444: Setting the Course

Diplomacy

Secure Holy Alliances: Begin by reinforcing alliances with neighboring Catholic states. A strong alliance with nations like Naples or Milan can deter aggression from regional powers and support your religious and diplomatic endeavors.
Improve Relations with Key Catholic Nations: Focus on building positive relations with influential Catholic countries, especially France and Austria. These relationships are crucial for maintaining your influence and securing support against potential threats.
Optional Alliances: Consider alliances with nations like Spain or the Holy Roman Empire’s smaller states. These can provide strategic depth and additional support in your quest to exert religious influence across Europe.

Economy and Military

Economical Management in Peace: During peaceful times, lower army maintenance to save on expenses. However, be vigilant and ready to mobilize in case of threats or heretical movements within your borders.
Strengthen the Papal Navy: Given your Mediterranean coastline, a robust navy is vital for protecting your shores, projecting power, and controlling trade. Ensure your naval forces are adequately funded and ready for deployment.
Invest in Galley Fleets: Construct additional Galleys, prioritizing them in your naval build-up. The Mediterranean Sea’s geography favors Galleys, making them more effective for regional naval dominance.

Technology and Ideas

Champion Catholicism: As the Papal State, you begin as a Catholic nation. Focus on decisions and actions that strengthen Catholicism and your religious authority, such as investing in church infrastructure or supporting Catholic nations.
Prioritize Diplomatic Technology: Early game focus should be on Diplomatic Technology to enhance your diplomatic abilities and naval strength. This aligns with your role as a religious and diplomatic leader.
Ideas for Papal Influence: Consider adopting Diplomatic or Religious ideas as your first idea groups. Diplomatic ideas enhance your ability to manage relationships and coalitions, while Religious ideas strengthen your capacity to enforce Catholic dominance and counter the Reformation.

Expand Your Religious Influence: As the Papal State, aim to extend your religious influence throughout Italy and beyond. Seek opportunities to convert neighboring provinces to Catholicism, either diplomatically or through more assertive means.

1444 – 1450: Laying the Foundations of Papal Power

Diplomatic Maneuvers

Forge Strategic Alliances: In these initial years, focus on solidifying alliances with major Catholic powers, particularly Austria and Spain. These alliances are vital for your security and for exerting influence within Christendom.
Influence Italian City-States: Work to diplomatically influence or vassalize neighboring Italian city-states. This can be done through alliances, royal marriages, and influencing their internal politics, laying the groundwork for eventual unification or control.
Counter the Ottoman Threat: Keep a watchful eye on the Ottomans. Establish alliances or support states that can serve as a buffer to Ottoman expansion into Europe.

Economic Development

Strengthen the Papal Economy: Focus on developing your provinces, particularly Rome, to boost your economic base. Investing in trade infrastructure in provinces like Ancona can also enhance your trade income significantly.
Balancing Military Spending: While maintaining a strong military is crucial, balance your spending to avoid crippling your economy. Only raise military maintenance when preparing for war or facing imminent threats.
Church Tax and Investments: Utilize the unique ‘Church Tax’ mechanic to increase your income, and consider investing in ecclesiastical buildings that enhance your economic and religious influence.

Military Expansion and Security

Build a Defensive Army: Assemble a competent army, focusing on a mix of infantry and cavalry. The Papal State’s military should be capable of defending your territory and supporting your allies.
Naval Dominance in the Mediterranean: Continue investing in your navy, aiming for naval dominance in the Mediterranean. This not only secures your coasts but also asserts your influence over Mediterranean trade routes.

Religious and Cultural Influence

Counter the Reformation: Keep an eye on the growing Reformation. Use your influence and resources to counter Protestantism and strengthen Catholicism in Europe.
Promote Catholic Art and Culture: Invest in cultural projects that promote Catholicism and the prestige of the Papacy. This can include sponsoring artists, constructing grand cathedrals, and encouraging Catholic education.
Call for Crusades: Consider calling for Crusades against non-Catholic states, particularly if the Ottomans or other Muslim powers threaten Catholic nations. This can boost your religious influence and grant bonuses to Catholic nations.

Consolidating Papal Authority

Strengthen Papal Control: Work towards consolidating your control over the Italian peninsula. This can involve direct conquest, vassalization, or diplomatic annexation of neighboring states.
Influence the College of Cardinals: Actively work to control the College of Cardinals. This not only strengthens your religious authority but also provides various diplomatic and religious benefits.

1450 – 1465: Strengthening the Foundations and Expanding Influence

Diplomatic Developments

Consolidate Existing Alliances: Continue to nurture and strengthen your alliances with major Catholic powers. Regular diplomatic interactions and aiding them in conflicts can solidify these relationships.
Expand Diplomatic Reach: Begin exploring diplomatic relations beyond your immediate neighbors. Establish contacts with other European powers, such as England or Poland, to widen your network of influence.
Manage the Balance of Power in Italy: Keep a close eye on the balance of power within Italy. Be ready to intervene diplomatically or militarily to prevent any single power from becoming too dominant.

Economic Advancements

Enhance Trade Networks: Actively work to dominate the trade in the Mediterranean. Consider directing trade from distant regions towards your centers of trade to increase your income.
Develop Your Provinces: Continue developing your provinces, focusing on those with high economic potential. Investments in production and trade buildings can significantly boost your income.

Military Fortifications and Campaigns

Fortify Borders: Strengthen the defenses of your border provinces, especially those near potentially hostile neighbors. Building forts and improving their infrastructure can deter aggression.
Consider Limited Expansion: If opportunities arise, consider military campaigns to expand your territory, particularly in regions that can bolster your economic and religious influence.
Maintain a Strong Defensive Stance: Ensure your army is well-maintained and ready to defend your lands. Regularly update your military technology to stay competitive.

Religious Leadership and Influence

Enhance Religious Unity: Work towards achieving religious unity within your territories. This can involve converting non-Catholic provinces and promoting Catholic values.
Influence Religious Affairs in Europe: Use your position as the Papal State to influence religious affairs across Europe. This can include calling councils, mediating disputes, and guiding the direction of the Catholic Church.
Respond to the Reformation: As Protestantism begins to spread, strategize ways to counter its influence. This may involve diplomatic efforts, supporting Catholic states, or even direct intervention.

Cultural and Administrative Reforms

Promote Renaissance Ideals: Embrace the Renaissance by sponsoring arts and education. This not only improves your cultural prestige but can also have positive effects on your administrative efficiency.
Administrative Organization: Streamline your administrative processes to improve efficiency. Focus on reducing corruption and increasing centralization to better manage your state.
Invest in Infrastructure: Improve your road networks and communication systems. This will aid in faster troop movements, better trade flow, and overall administrative efficiency.

1465 – 1480: Solidifying Papal Dominance and Preparing for Change

Diplomatic Initiatives

Evaluate and Adjust Alliances: Reassess your current alliances and make adjustments as necessary. As the European political landscape evolves, some alliances may become more beneficial than others.
Influence International Politics: Actively participate in international politics. Use your diplomatic weight to mediate conflicts or shape alliances that align with your interests.
Engage in Papal Mediation: Offer to mediate in conflicts between Catholic nations. This not only bolsters your diplomatic standing but also helps maintain peace among your allies.

Economic Growth and Stability

Diversify Economic Activities: Look for opportunities to diversify your economy. Consider investing in different trade goods or establishing new trade routes to reduce reliance on a single income source.
Optimize Tax Collection: Implement administrative reforms to optimize tax collection. Effective tax management can significantly boost your state’s revenue.
Promote Urban Development: Encourage urban development in your provinces. This can increase their economic output and provide additional manpower and naval force limits.

Military Strategies and Challenges

Modernize the Army: Continue upgrading your military technology and tactics. Adopt new military ideas that enhance your army’s effectiveness in the field.
Prepare for Potential Conflicts: Be prepared for potential conflicts with major powers, especially those that threaten Catholic interests or your territorial integrity.
Naval Exploration and Expansion: If naval technology allows, begin exploring beyond the Mediterranean. This could open up new opportunities for trade and expansion.

Religious Authority and Reformation Pressures

Strengthen Papal Authority: Continue to strengthen your authority as the head of the Catholic Church. Implement policies that reinforce your religious influence both within and outside your borders.
Address the Growing Reformation: Develop strategies to address the growing influence of the Reformation. This may involve supporting Catholic states under Protestant pressure or engaging in counter-Reformation activities.
Convene Church Councils: Consider convening church councils to address pressing religious issues and reaffirm Catholic doctrines.

Cultural Renaissance and Administrative Reforms

Embrace and Promote the Renaissance: Continue to embrace the Renaissance spirit by sponsoring arts, science, and education. This cultural investment can improve your nation’s prestige and innovation.
Reform Government Administration: Implement government reforms to improve efficiency. This could involve centralizing power or adopting new administrative practices to better manage your expanding state.
Invest in Infrastructure and Education: Continue investing in infrastructure and education to improve the administrative and technological capabilities of your state.

1480 – 1495: The Papal State in the Age of Discovery and Renaissance

Diplomatic Strategies and Challenges

Adapt to Emerging European Powers: As new powers emerge and old ones decline, adjust your diplomatic strategies accordingly. Keep a keen eye on the shifting alliances and power balances in Europe.
Promote Catholic Unity: Work towards maintaining and promoting unity among Catholic nations. This is crucial for strengthening your position and countering potential threats from Protestant and Muslim states.
Engage in Global Diplomacy: Start engaging with emerging global powers. Establish diplomatic relations with countries outside Europe, such as the Ottoman Empire or emerging colonial powers, to extend your influence.

Economic Development and Trade Expansion

Capitalize on New Trade Opportunities: With the Age of Discovery underway, look for new trade opportunities. Explore options to establish trade relations with newly discovered lands.
Invest in Trade Technology: Upgrade your trade technology to take advantage of new trade routes and goods. This can significantly boost your national income.
Strengthen the Internal Economy: Continue to develop your core provinces, focusing on building a robust internal economy that can support your expanding ambitions.

Military Readiness and Naval Power

Update Military Tactics: With new military technologies emerging, update your tactics and army composition to stay competitive.
Expand Naval Ambitions: If you haven’t already, begin building ocean-going ships. A strong navy is essential for protecting your interests and projecting power beyond the Mediterranean.
Defend Your Territories: Maintain a strong defense posture, especially in your core Italian territories. Be prepared for potential conflicts that may arise due to the shifting political landscape.

Responding to the Reformation

Counter Reformation Movements: As the Reformation gains momentum, take active steps to counter its spread. Use diplomatic, religious, and, if necessary, military means to support Catholicism.
Reinforce Catholic Doctrines: Use your position to reinforce Catholic doctrines and beliefs. This can involve calling for councils, issuing papal bulls, and supporting Catholic education.

Cultural Flourishing and Administrative Reforms

Foster a Cultural Renaissance: Continue to invest in cultural projects. Patronizing artists, architects, and scholars can enhance your prestige and influence.
Administrative Modernization: Implement further administrative reforms to streamline your government. Focus on reducing corruption and improving the efficiency of tax collection and state administration.
Educational Investments: Invest in education to improve your technological progress and administrative efficiency. Establishing universities and promoting education can have long-term benefits for your nation.

1495 – 1510: Navigating a Changing World as The Papal State

Diplomatic Foresight and Adaptability

Maintain a Balanced Diplomatic Approach: As Europe’s political landscape continues to evolve, maintain a balanced approach. Support your allies but be ready to form new alliances as power dynamics shift.
Influence International Affairs: Use your diplomatic influence to shape international affairs. Your role as a religious leader can be a powerful tool in negotiating treaties and alliances.
Monitor the New World Developments: Pay attention to the discoveries and colonization efforts in the New World. While not a direct player in colonization, understanding these developments can inform your diplomatic and trade strategies.

Economic Growth and Global Trade

Adapt to Global Trade Changes: The discovery of the New World and new trade routes can impact global trade dynamics. Adapt your trade strategies to ensure maximum benefit for The Papal State.
Develop Trade Networks: Focus on expanding and developing your trade networks, both within the Mediterranean and with emerging global markets.
Boost Domestic Production: Continue to invest in your provinces to boost production, especially in valuable trade goods. This will strengthen your economy and increase your trade power.

Military Preparedness and Expansion

Modernize Your Military: Continue upgrading your military in line with the latest developments. This includes adopting new technologies and tactics to keep your forces competitive.
Defend Against External Threats: Be vigilant against external threats, especially from aggressive neighboring states or emerging powers.
Naval Expansion: Further expand and modernize your navy. A strong naval presence is crucial for protecting your interests and exerting influence in the Mediterranean and beyond.

Religious Authority in a Divided Christendom

Address the Challenges of the Reformation: As the Reformation spreads, intensify your efforts to maintain Catholic orthodoxy. This may involve supporting Catholic states and countering Protestant influence.
Promote Papal Leadership: Continue to promote the leadership and authority of the Papacy in religious matters. This can involve convening councils, issuing decrees, and strengthening ties with Catholic rulers.

Cultural and Administrative Innovations

Cultural Patronage: Continue your patronage of the arts and sciences. This era is ripe for cultural flourishing, which can greatly enhance your prestige and influence.
Reform Your Administration: Implement further reforms to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your government. This includes tackling corruption, reforming the legal system, and improving bureaucratic processes.
Invest in Education and Technology: Invest in education and technological advancements. Establishing new educational institutions and promoting technological research can provide long-term benefits to your nation.

Key Tips and Considerations for The Papal State
* As The Papal State, preserving religious unity and political stability is essential. Uphold Catholicism and use your religious influence to reduce unrest in your territories. Be prepared to use your diplomatic influence or military force to quell rebellions and maintain control.

* Leverage your strategic position in the heart of the Mediterranean to become a trading powerhouse. Invest in provinces with valuable trade goods, build trade buildings, and deploy your navy to protect and extend your trade routes. Focus on dominating trade nodes like Genoa and Venice to maximize your income.

* Expand cautiously and strategically, prioritizing regions that strengthen your religious and economic position. Be mindful of aggressive expansion, especially within the Holy Roman Empire and among other Catholic nations. Utilize diplomacy to manage potential threats, forming alliances, influencing other states, or even vassalizing strategically important nations to bolster your position.

What are The Best Idea Groups for The Papal State in EU4?

Choosing the right idea groups in Europa Universalis IV is crucial for maximizing the potential of a nation like The Papal State. Given its unique position as a religious and diplomatic power in the heart of Italy, certain idea groups can greatly enhance its strengths in both diplomatic and military aspects. Here are the top three idea groups for each category:

The 3 Best Diplomatic Idea Groups for The Papal State

Diplomatic Ideas: This group is essential for The Papal State, as it enhances diplomatic relations, lowers the cost of reducing war exhaustion, and provides more diplomatic reputation. It’s especially useful for managing relationships with other Catholic nations and navigating the complex political landscape of Europe.
Influence Ideas: These ideas are great for improving relations with vassals and reducing the cost of diplomatic annexation. For a nation like The Papal State, which can benefit from having numerous vassals or allies, this idea group can be invaluable.
Trade Ideas: Given The Papal State’s position in the Mediterranean, focusing on trade can significantly boost its economy. Trade ideas will increase your trade efficiency and steering, helping to maximize income from trade nodes such as Genoa and Venice.

The 3 Best Military Idea Groups for The Papal State

Defensive Ideas: The Papal State, being in a central position in Italy, often faces multiple potential threats. Defensive ideas will boost the morale of armies and fort defense, making The Papal State more resilient against aggression.
Quality Ideas: This idea group improves the overall quality of your troops, both infantry and naval units. Given The Papal State’s need to maintain a strong military presence, these enhancements can be crucial in both offensive and defensive wars.
Offensive Ideas: To complement defensive strategies, offensive ideas provide bonuses to siege ability and land leader shock/fire, which can be crucial in taking the initiative in wars and expanding the Papal influence across the Italian peninsula and beyond.

How can The Papal State manage the threat of the Protestant Reformation in EU4?

Managing the Protestant Reformation is a significant challenge for The Papal State. To effectively counter this, focus on maintaining high religious unity and using your Papal influence to reinforce Catholicism. Invest in the Religious idea group to enhance your ability to convert provinces and counter Reformation centers. Additionally, forming alliances with strong Catholic nations and intervening in religious conflicts can help curb the spread of Protestantism and maintain Catholic dominance in Europe.

What are the unique features of The Papal State in EU4?

The Papal State in EU4 possesses several unique features that set it apart. First, it has the ability to influence and control the College of Cardinals, which plays a crucial role in Catholicism. This allows for special interactions like excommunicating rulers or calling for crusades. The Papal State also has a unique government type, “Papacy,” which grants specific bonuses such as increased prestige and Papal influence. Lastly, it cannot form royal marriages due to its theocratic nature, which makes diplomacy and alliance-building uniquely challenging and interesting.

How should The Papal State approach colonization in EU4?

While The Papal State is not traditionally a colonial powerhouse, it can still engage in colonization to spread Catholicism and gain new resources. To pursue colonization, invest in the Exploration idea group to unlock colonists and naval range extensions. Focus on colonizing strategic locations like the coast of Africa or islands in the Atlantic to serve as stepping stones to the New World. This can help spread Catholicism globally and open new trade opportunities, enhancing The Papal State’s influence and wealth.

Conclusion
This Papal State Guide is written for the vanilla version of EUIV – if you want to add up the fun of playing Europa Universalis IV, consider adding DLCs and content packs to your game.

As we wrap up our comprehensive guide on The Papal State in Europa Universalis IV, it’s clear that mastering this unique and influential nation requires a blend of adept diplomacy, economic savvy, and thoughtful strategic maneuvers. From exerting your influence in the heart of Europe to navigating the complex tapestry of religious and political dynamics, The Papal State offers a deeply engaging and multifaceted gameplay experience.

We hope this guide has illuminated your path to greatness and ignited your enthusiasm for the intricate and fascinating world of Europa Universalis IV. With this knowledge, the future of The Papal State rests in your capable hands: What ingenious strategies or memorable experiences have you encountered in your Papal campaigns? Share your stories and insights in the comments below, and let’s continue to unravel and celebrate the rich tapestry of EU4 together!