Paradox explains the difference between Europa Universalis 5’s DLC types

Any strategy fan knows that Paradox Interactive’s games come with many years of post-launch support in the form of free updates and paid expansions. Upcoming title Europa Universalis 5 is going to be no different with three DLCs already announced ahead of the game’s release, since they’ll be included in its Premium Edition. Paradox has divided these expansions into Immersion and Chronicle Packs — but what exactly is the difference? 

DBLTAP asked Paradox that question at Gamescom 2025 and the developers explained what differentiates the two types of content packs. 

Chronicle Packs will mainly be based on one country or a pair of nations that are connected. In these expansions, players will find content that enhances playing as these involved countries — elements such as fresh Situations, which are EU5’s engine for narrative content in lieu of EU4’s national mission trees and provide opportunities to rewrite events that actually happened. An example for that from the base game is the 100 Years War between England and France.

The Lord Packs sold by Creative Assembly for its first two Total War: Warhammer games are probably a solid comparison: Chronicle Packs add content for two different nations connected by a narrative, similar to Total War: Warhammer 2 DLC like The Prophet & The Warlock.

Immersion Packs, on the other hand, are all about flavor. Players can get new events, unique buildings, additional reforms, and other bits and pieces that pad out a playthrough. Many of these elements have small impacts on gameplay, but some will be wholly cosmetic in nature.

With that said, experience tells us that Paradox will evolve these offerings over time based on data and community feedback, similar to how DLC types for Crusader Kings 3 have changed between its release and today.

Europa Universalis 5 DLC roadmap for 2026

For its first year of post-launch support, the following expansions are awaiting EU5:

• Fate of the Phoenix – Immersion Pack (Q2 2026)
• Across the Pillars – Chronicle Pack (Q3 2026)
• The Auld Alliance – Chronicle Pack (Q4 2026)

Fate of the Phoenix will focus on the Byzantine Empire and provide content around reviving and restoring the nation’s Roman roots.

Across the Pillars will revolve around Castile and Morocco, providing new options to both in the competition for control over the Straits of Gibraltar.

The Auld Alliance will put the spotlight on France and Scotland, bringing content to the table that revolves around their united efforts against England as well as their internal conflicts.

For more information on the game, check out our Europa Universalis 5 Gamescom 2025 preview.

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