Pops are integral to EU5’s estate system. The nobles, clergy, burghers, and commoners all have their own ambitions and privileges. Granting these privileges will often influence multiple estates at the same time. For example, granting serfdom rights to nobles might oppress peasant pops, reducing their happiness while boosting nobles' loyalty. Conversely, freeing commoners could spark economic growth, but also anger elites.

Mobility of the commoners is sure to make peasants happy. But think of the poor poor nobles...

EU5 tracks pop literacy and wealth through the game, influencing technological progress and trade efficiency. Advanced nations like Venice will benefit more from having literate pops to stimulate innovation, whereas nations with lower literacy will have a harder path towards reform.

Cultural and religious diversity add another layer of depth. Promoting a state religion might help to unify pops, but will certainly alienate minorities, exposing you to unrest and potential revolts. While assimilation is possible, it is a slow and costly process—you’ll need to spend precious resources like diplomatic finesse or military strength to ensure its success.

This intricate system ensures that every nation feels unique. After all, ruling the cosmopolitan Ottomans should be vastly different from managing the more culturally homogeneous Ashikaga Shogunate.

Cultural Breakdown of Japan mid game

Cultural Breakdown of Ottomans mid game