With surplus food and general prosperity, populations will grow, and pops can even be promoted to higher classes, if the necessary jobs are available. Conversely, food shortages due to war or poor harvests can lead to starvation, shrinking both your workforce and military potential.

Natural disasters and diseases, such as volcanoes or smallpox, can devastate populations, especially in densely packed cities, forcing players to balance population management with economic growth.

The fertile soil of naples does not come from nowwhere…

The Dangers Map Mode will help you navigate especially active seismic regions.

Neglecting pops risks inciting rebellion, while satisfying their needs boosts productivity. Happy burghers lead to thriving trade, and content peasants result in higher food production.

Beyond individual pops, EU5's living world thrives on dynamic interactions and historical events. Important historical occurrences like the Black Death or the Reformation trigger "Situations" with unique mechanics. For example, the bubonic plague might specifically decimate urban pops, forcing players to quarantine cities or lose trade income.

A world before the plague

A world devastated by the plague

Keep in mind the Plague is a dynamic, following trade and crossing borders. Different playthroughs will yield different results and levels of pop loss! We also have game rules allowing you to randomize it's spawn date, spawn location, or turn it off entirely if you so wish.

Events will have impact beyond just flavor: Losing pops directly influences your gameplay by weakening your economy and military.