Hoi4: Austria-Hungary, A Fun And Challenging Campaign

Hearts of Iron IV by Paradox Development Studio is a grand strategy game that allows players to rewrite history. One of the most popular strategies is to reform the Austrian-Hungarian Empire. Players can choose to play as either Austria or Hungary and have the option to peacefully annex or take by force. While Austria has the upper hand in terms of manpower and economy, Hungary offers a more challenging and rewarding experience. The game provides various expansion routes, such as the Death or Dishonor expansion, which gives Hungary a unique national focus tree. This tree includes branches like the Balanced Budget/Economic Intervention Branch, Industrial Revitalization Branch, and Secret Rearmament Branch, each offering different advantages and gameplay styles. The game also features several achievements for players to unlock, such as 'Miklos Horthy and the Habsburg Prince' and 'Better than the Szent István', adding to the fun and replay value.

Annexing Austria and Czechoslovakia

One strategy is to first do the industrial focuses to gain civilian factories, disband the air force and cavalry units to give manpower to the infantry, and hire an infantry expert. You can then concentrate all military factories on making infantry equipment and then artillery.

After this, you can follow the Habsburg path while saving up political power, and then take Austria by force. This will be a tough war, as Austria puts a substantial amount of troops on the border.

You can then immediately change conscription laws and hire a fascist demagogue, before joining the Axis and doing the Czechoslovakia focus when Germany seems to be nearing Sudetenland. You can then help Germany defeat the Allies and Comintern, gaining territory in France and the USSR.

An alternative strategy is to go down the Balanced Budget tree to elect Otto von Habsburg to the Habsburg throne. You can then demand a referendum for unification with Austria, which will either lead to war or unification. If Austria votes against unification, you can put troops on the border and head for the cities, capturing Vienna and Salzburg before Germany does the Anschluss. You can then proclaim the restoration of Austria-Hungary.

You can then put your attention on Czechoslovakia and improve relations as much as possible. This is required as the Protect Czechoslovakia focus gives Czechoslovakia a decision to decline, become an associate, or reintegrate back into the empire. You need them to at least become an associate, so improving relations is necessary.

You can then follow a similar strategy with Romania through the Claim Transylvania focus, and then generate a war goal on Yugoslavia. Being at war gets rid of the Treaty of Trianon, so you should save up political power to change conscription and economy laws.

Another strategy is to first invade Germany, taking the cities and annexing the country. You can then invade France, going through Belgium, and then the UK, taking their victory points and forcing their surrender. You can then take the required French and British territories, before declaring war on and annexing Vichy France.

A final strategy is to build up relations with Austria and Czechoslovakia through improving relations and applying diplomatic pressure. You can then demand a referendum, which will hopefully result in Austria agreeing to be annexed. Czechoslovakia will then likely agree to be annexed as well, rather than becoming a puppet or resisting.

Building forts on the Austrian-German border

Fort Level and Placement

It is recommended to build at least level 3 forts, and preferably level 5 forts, all along the Austrian-German border. Higher-level forts provide better defensive bonuses and can help delay or deter a German invasion. Place the forts in strategic locations to maximize their defensive potential.

Military Units and Tactics

In addition to building forts, it is essential to have a strong military presence along the border. Concentrate your units, particularly infantry, on the border to bolster your defensive capabilities. Consider switching to 20-width infantry divisions as they can be more effective in defensive operations. Utilize the grand battle plan doctrine for the entrenchment bonus, which further enhances your defensive strength.

Annexation of Austria and Czechoslovakia

To strengthen your position, consider peacefully annexing Austria and Czechoslovakia early in the game. This will provide you with additional resources and manpower, making it easier to build and maintain a strong border defense. However, be mindful that Austria may put up a significant fight, so prepare your military forces accordingly.

Alliances and Diplomacy

Forming alliances or non-aggression pacts can help buy you time and deter German aggression. Consider improving relations with Germany and seeking their support when dealing with Romania or other neighboring countries. You can also try to join the Axis or form your own faction with Italy, but carefully assess the potential consequences for your strategy.

Industrial and Economic Development

Invest in industrial development, particularly military factories, to increase your capacity to produce equipment and supplies for your troops. Focus on infantry equipment first, and once those needs are fulfilled, shift your production to artillery. A strong industrial base will enable you to maintain a well-equipped and supplied military force.

Dealing with the Sudetenland Ultimatum

When Germany demands the Sudetenland, you have a few options. You can refuse the ultimatum and prepare for war, knowing that you have built up your defenses and military strength. Alternatively, you can temporarily give up the Sudetenland, using that time to further expand your industry and military power. Then, when Germany is engaged in conflicts with other powers, such as the Allies or the Soviet Union, you can strike back and reclaim your lost territory.

Remember that building forts on the Austrian-German border is just one aspect of a comprehensive strategy when playing as Austria-Hungary in Hearts of Iron IV. Combine it with diplomatic maneuvers, economic development, and military preparations to increase your chances of success.

Choosing a king

Ideology

The king's ideology will determine the path your nation takes. You can choose between a Democratic king, a Fascist king, or a Non-Aligned Habsburg king. Each option has its own advantages and will influence your relationships with other countries. For example, a Democratic king will foster closer ties with Sweden and may lead to an alliance with the United Kingdom or Romania. On the other hand, a Fascist king will align your nation more closely with Germany and the Axis powers, and a goal of creating a Greater Hungary.

Relationships with Neighbours

Consider the potential king's relationships with neighbouring countries, especially those that are crucial to your expansion plans. For instance, if you plan to annex Austria and Czechoslovakia, choosing a king with favourable relations towards these countries can make the process smoother and reduce the likelihood of conflict.

Military Experience

Military expertise is an important trait for a king, especially if you anticipate engaging in warfare. Look for a king with a strong military background who can lead your troops effectively and make strategic decisions. This is particularly relevant if you plan to go up against powerful nations like Germany.

Domestic Policies

The king's domestic policies will shape the internal affairs of your nation. Consider what type of economic and social reforms you want to implement and choose a king whose policies align with your vision. For example, do you want to focus on industrial development, or are you more concerned with strengthening the monarchy's power?

Longevity

Consider the age and health of the potential kings. Choosing a younger king may provide stability and continuity for your nation in the long run. Additionally, take into account the potential heirs of each king and how they might influence the future of your nation.

Diplomatic Skills

A king with strong diplomatic skills can be an asset in forging alliances and negotiating favourable deals. If you plan to rely on diplomacy to achieve your goals, selecting a king known for their diplomatic prowess can be advantageous.

Remember, the choice of king will have significant implications for your gameplay experience, so consider your strategy and the specific needs of your nation before making this important decision.

Joining the Axis

Industrial and Military Strength

Firstly, focus on industrial development to address Hungary's initial economic weakness. Concentrate on building civilian factories and then shift to producing infantry equipment and artillery for your military. Disband the air force and cavalry units to free up manpower for the infantry.

Annexation of Austria

The next step is to set your sights on Austria. You can attempt a peaceful unification by improving relations and demanding a referendum, but be prepared for the possibility of war if Austria refuses. If you go to war, focus your troops on capturing Vienna and Salzburg to end the conflict quickly before Germany's Anschluss.

Dealing with Czechoslovakia and Romania

After securing Austria, turn your attention to Czechoslovakia. It is crucial to fully annex them rather than accepting them as a puppet. Then, work on improving relations with Germany to gain their support when dealing with Romania. When Romania opposes you, prepare for war, and with Germany's backing, you can swiftly defeat them and take the lands you need.

Yugoslavia and the Axis

At this point, you will have the option to restore the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Now, you must decide how to approach Germany. You can either hold Sudetenland, which requires a strong military and high-level forts along the German border, or you can give up Sudetenland and build up your power while Germany is engaged elsewhere. If you choose the latter, you can join the Axis when Germany offers, and then you can refuse to give up Sudetenland without fear of German aggression.

War with Germany

When you are ready, you can cancel the non-aggression pact with Germany and prepare for war. Take advantage of their engagement with the Allies and the Soviets, striking when they are weakened. With a well-timed and coordinated attack, you can steamroll them and take Berlin.

Dealing with Italy and the Allies

Italy, as Germany's ally, will also be a target. Ensure you have a strong air force to protect your troops and strike at Italy's weaknesses. As for the Allies, you can join the war soon after it starts by generating a war goal for one of your cores or claims in Italy. Focus on invading the UK and taking their victory points to weaken the eastern half of the British Empire.

Restoring the Austro-Hungarian Empire

As Hungary:

Hungary starts off as a crippled country with a weak economy and limited manpower. To restore the Austro-Hungarian Empire, you will need to focus on industrial development first to boost your economy and build up your military strength. Disband the air force and cavalry units to reinforce your infantry, and hire an infantry expert to gain army experience. Concentrate your military factories on producing infantry equipment, and then switch to artillery once your infantry needs are met.

To unite with Austria, you can either take the diplomatic route by improving relations and demanding a referendum, or you can go to war. If you choose the diplomatic path, spend political power to improve relations with Austria, and they may agree to a peaceful unification. If they refuse, you will need to go to war. Focus your troops on capturing Vienna and Salzburg, and you can quickly annex Austria before the German Anschluss.

After securing Austria, turn your attention to Czechoslovakia. Improve relations and aim for them to become an associate, or reintegrate them into the empire if possible. You will also need to deal with Romania and Yugoslavia. Justify a war goal on Yugoslavia, and if Romania opposes you, enlist Germany's support. Declare war and take the necessary territories to reform the empire.

To avoid conflict with Germany over the Sudetenland, you can either fortify your border and build up your air force, or temporarily give up the Sudetenland and focus on expanding your industry. Join the Axis or form a non-aggression pact with Germany to avoid an early war. When Germany is deeply engaged in the war with the Allies and the Soviet Union, strike and take the necessary territories to restore the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

As Austria:

Playing as Austria offers a different path to restoring the empire. You will need to focus on industrial development and building up your military strength. Justify a war goal on Hungary and be prepared for a potential conflict with Germany if they have not yet done the Anschluss. If Germany has already annexed Hungary, you will need to go to war with them to restore the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Once you have secured Hungary, follow a similar strategy to the one outlined for Hungary above. Focus on industrial development, improve relations with Czechoslovakia, and aim for a peaceful unification or annexation. Deal with Romania and Yugoslavia, and take the necessary territories to reform the empire. To avoid conflict with Germany, you can fortify your border and build up your air force, or temporarily give up the Sudetenland. Join the Axis or form a non-aggression pact to avoid early aggression from Germany. Strike when Germany is deeply engaged in wars with the Allies and the Soviet Union, and take the required territories to restore the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Frequently asked questions