Allying Poland As Austria: A Guide To Eu4 Success

As Austria in EU4, forming an alliance with Poland can be advantageous, especially when facing powerful enemies like the Ottomans. Poland often rivals the Ottomans and can provide military support in wars. However, it may be challenging to secure an alliance with Poland due to their existing diplomatic relations. Players have suggested improving relations with Poland, allying with their enemies, and exploiting rivalries between Poland and other nations like Bohemia. Additionally, Poland's relationship with Lithuania should be considered, as it may impact their alliance preferences. Overall, allying with Poland as Austria can be a strategic move, but it requires careful diplomatic maneuvering and consideration of the broader diplomatic landscape in the game.

Ally with Poland's enemies

As Austria, one strategy to consider is allying with Poland's enemies. Poland and Castile can be detrimental as allies, as they are often hated by Hungary and France, respectively. This can make these nations less willing to help you in wars and more likely to break the alliance. Additionally, you may end up having to choose sides in wars between them.

When playing as Teutonic Order, consider allying with Poland's enemies, such as Muscovy, Austria, and Bohemia. This strategy can make it easier to expand into Poland, a large and rich nation outside the HRE with few allies. By weakening Poland, you can also make Lithuania more disloyal, creating further instability.

Another strategy is to ally with Hungary, Livonian Order, and Bohemia, as they may be more willing to join forces against Poland. Once you have weakened Poland, it becomes less threatening, and you can focus on expanding your territory.

It is also worth noting that Poland and Lithuania are often allied with France, which can be a powerful alliance. By allying with France's enemies, you can prevent them from growing too strong and potentially balance the power dynamics in the region. However, France can be a valuable ally in wars in Germany, so consider your strategic priorities carefully.

Attack the Balkans and the Ottomans

Attacking the Balkans and the Ottomans is a strategy that can be employed by Austria in EU4. This strategy can be facilitated by allying with Hungary, Poland, and Aragon, who can provide military support. The aim is to gain control of the Balkans and Ottoman territories, which can then be added to the Holy Roman Empire (HRE) after converting the provinces. However, it is important to ensure that Austria is at peace before adding provinces to the HRE to maintain stability and pass the necessary reforms.

When attacking the Balkans and the Ottomans, it is essential to consider the historical context and the power dynamics between these regions. The Ottoman-Habsburg wars, which lasted for a century, significantly impacted the region. During this period, both the Ottomans and the Austrians struggled to keep up with the heavy industry and technological advancements of other European powers, leading to a gradual loss of power to nations like France, Britain, Prussia, and Russia.

In the Balkans, the rising nationalist movements and cries for independence became a significant challenge for the Ottomans, who were less militarily competent in suppressing these rebellions. Taking advantage of the situation, Austria can seek to exploit the Ottomans' weakening position in the region and expand its influence. This can be done by allying with nations that have a hostile relationship with the Ottomans, such as Hungary and Poland, who have historically had conflicts with them.

Additionally, the Ottoman Empire's reliance on heavy cannons and large armies, as demonstrated in their failed siege of Vienna, can be used to Austria's advantage. By employing defensive strategies in mountainous terrain and utilizing light troops for pillaging and raiding, Austria can harass and weaken Ottoman forces. The defeat of the Ottomans at Vienna and the early snowfall that hampered their retreat showcase the vulnerabilities of the Ottoman military and provide opportunities for Austria to launch counteroffensives.

Furthermore, the internal struggles within the Ottoman Empire, such as the conflict between Ferdinand I and John Zápolya for control of Hungary, can be exploited. By supporting factions within the Ottoman realm, Austria can create further divisions and weaken their opponent. Overall, a well-timed and coordinated attack on the Balkans and the Ottomans, with the support of strong allies, can help Austria gain territorial advantages and secure its position in the region.

Dismantle Burgundy

Dismantling Burgundy as Austria in EU4 can be a challenging task, but with careful planning and strategic alliances, it is achievable. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to dismantle Burgundy as Austria:

Start by improving your relations with potential allies, specifically electors, Hungary, and Bohemia. Royal Marry (RM) two electors and France, and work on improving relations with a third elector. RM Hungary and Bohemia to bring them into the Habsburg dynasty, which can lead to a potential Personal Union (PU) later in the game.

Ally with nations that have rivalries with Burgundy, such as Hungary and France. These alliances will be crucial when it comes to confronting Burgundy. You can also consider allying with Poland, especially if they have Lithuania under their control and have a rivalry with the Ottomans. However, be cautious as allying with Poland may negatively impact your relations with Hungary and France, who tend to dislike them.

Once you have secured these key alliances, you can start planning your offensive against Burgundy. Declare war on them, preferably with the support of your allies, and focus on achieving your military objectives. Remember that the AI tends to struggle with expansion, so even if you don't succeed in the early stages, you can always come back stronger and try again later.

After successfully dismantling Burgundy, consider your next steps carefully. You may want to form the Netherlands or pursue other expansionist goals. Remember that you can always peace out immediately after dismantling Burgundy to cut your losses and focus on your long-term strategy.

Keep in mind that this strategy may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your game, and adaptability is crucial in EU4. Ensure that you are managing your diplomatic relations effectively and making the most of your alliances to achieve your ultimate goal of dominating Europe as Austria.

Ally with Hungary and Bohemia

When playing as Austria in EU4, it is important to consider your allies and rivals carefully to achieve a strong position. Here is a strategy focused on allying with Hungary and Bohemia, along with Poland:

Firstly, improve your relations with Hungary and Bohemia. These two countries can be valuable allies for Austria, and they also tend to be rivals of the Ottomans, which can be advantageous. Bohemia and Poland are often rivals, so allying with Bohemia can be a good strategy to counter Poland. You can also try to get Hungary and Bohemia to join the Habsburg dynasty by improving relations and offering royal marriages. This will allow you to force a union with them later in the game.

Hungary is a strong potential ally, as they are often willing to help in wars against the Ottomans and other enemies. They can also be a useful ally when attacking the Balkans and the Ottomans, alongside Poland and Aragon. Consider allying with electors, such as Palatinate and Saxony, as you can marry them and they will be valuable allies within the Holy Roman Empire.

To secure an alliance with Poland, it is important to act quickly, as they tend to have few allies and can be a target for other players. Improving relations and offering gifts can help secure the alliance. Additionally, if Poland has Lithuania under them and hates the Ottomans, they can be a valuable ally for Austria.

By focusing on these alliances, especially with Hungary and Bohemia, you can strengthen your position as Austria and counter potential rivals like Poland and the Ottomans.

Increase relations to ally status

To increase relations with Poland as Austria in EU4, you can try a few different strategies and techniques. Firstly, focus on improving relations through diplomatic means. Send them gifts, hire a +1 Diplo Rep advisor, and work on subsidizing their efforts. These actions can help boost your relationship and bring you closer to an alliance.

Another strategy is to exploit existing rivalries and alliances. Poland's enemies can become your allies, and vice versa. Consider allying with Muscovy, Bohemia, and Hungary, as these nations often have rivalries or conflicting interests with Poland. By leveraging these relationships, you can strengthen your position and potentially draw Poland closer.

Additionally, you can try to ally with electors and France. Forming alliances with electors can provide you with additional influence and support. France is also a crucial ally, as they are a powerful nation that can deter others from challenging you. However, be cautious, as France and Austria may eventually find themselves on opposing sides of a major conflict, forcing you to choose a side.

Expanding your territory and influence can also help increase your relations with Poland. Attacking the Balkans and the Ottomans, with the help of allies like Hungary, Poland, and Aragon, can provide you with additional land that can be added to the HRE. This expansion may impress Poland and encourage them to view you more favourably.

Lastly, keep in mind that Poland and Lithuania are often closely tied. If you can ally with Lithuania or take advantage of any weaknesses within their relationship, you may be able to influence Poland's stance towards you.

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