Paradox Grand Strategy DLC Release Tracker 2026
Source: Paradox Interactive / official game screenshots
Paradox Interactive runs on a DLC treadmill, and 2026 is shaping up to be a busy year. With EU5 in its first full year, CK3 continuing its expansion cycle, and EU4 still getting support, there’s a lot to track. Here’s what we know about the 2026 DLC schedule. To understand what each DLC actually unlocks, pair this tracker with the CK3 DLC guide and the best EU4 DLC ranking.
Europa Universalis V
EU5 launched in November 2025, and Paradox has already confirmed a full DLC roadmap for 2026. Here’s what’s been announced:
Fate of the Phoenix: Released May 6, 2026
The first EU5 immersion pack, Fate of the Phoenix focuses on the Byzantine Empire. It adds new mechanics, events, and flavor for one of the most iconic powers in the game’s timeline. If you’re playing as the Byzantines, or planning to restore the Roman Empire, this is the pack for you.
Across the Pillars: Q3 2026
The first EU5 Chronicle Pack, Across the Pillars covers the Strait of Gibraltar region, with content for Morocco and Castile. Chronicle Packs are Paradox’s smaller content packs, typically adding new events, decisions, and regional flavor.
The Auld Alliance: Q4 2026
The second EU5 Chronicle Pack, The Auld Alliance focuses on France, Scotland, and England. It’s covering the tangled web of alliances and rivalries that shaped Western Europe. Expect new events and decisions tied to the Hundred Years’ War era and its aftermath.
Update 1.4 “Río Salado”: October 28, 2026
The first major free update of the back half, Rio Salado launches October 28, 2026. It reworks Catholicism with named Cardinals and Religious Orders, rebalances combat and sieges, and overhauls the economy around Trade Orders, Tariffs, and Promote Industry. Our update 1.4 hub tracks every confirmed change, with dedicated deep dives on the Catholicism rework and the economy changes.
Crusader Kings III
CK3 has been in a strong DLC cycle since 2020, and 2026 should continue that trend. The most recent major expansion was Roads to Power (2024), which added the landless adventurer playstyle.
2026’s expansion is Silk and Silver. It reworks trade and adds playable Republics and Merchants, the deepest mechanical shake-up CK3 has had since Roads to Power. We track everything confirmed so far and have a deep dive on the Merchant playstyle, covering Trade Routes, Commission Routes, the Silk Road bonus group, and how loans and Usury work.
What to expect beyond it: Paradox typically releases one major expansion and one or two flavor packs per year for CK3, so more content is likely before 2026 closes.
Europa Universalis IV
EU4 is the interesting one. With EU5 out, you might expect EU4’s DLC cycle to wind down, but Paradox has kept supporting it. The game still has an active playerbase, and Paradox has shown no signs of ending support.
What to expect: EU4’s DLC releases have slowed compared to its peak, but the game still gets updates and the occasional content pack. Whether 2026 brings a new EU4 DLC is uncertain, but the game remains supported.
How to Track Releases
The best way to stay on top of Paradox DLC announcements:
- Paradox’s dev diaries: posted on the Paradox forums and Steam, these are the primary source for DLC announcements
- The Paradox YouTube channel: release trailers and announcement videos are posted here
- Steam: DLC pages go up on Steam before release, so you can see what’s coming
- The Paradox forums: the community is always discussing upcoming content
The 2026 schedule at a glance
| Game | Confirmed for 2026 | Status |
|---|---|---|
| EU5 | Fate of the Phoenix (immersion pack) | Released May 6 |
| EU5 | Update 1.4 “Río Salado” | October 28, 2026 |
| EU5 | Across the Pillars (Chronicle Pack, Gibraltar) | Q3 2026 |
| EU5 | The Auld Alliance (Chronicle Pack, France, Scotland, England) | Q4 2026 |
| CK3 | Silk and Silver (trade, Republics, Merchants) | Announced |
| EU4 | No new DLC confirmed | Still supported |
FAQ
Is EU5 getting DLC in 2026?
Yes. Fate of the Phoenix released in May, the free Rio Salado update arrives October 28, and two Chronicle Packs, Across the Pillars and The Auld Alliance, are scheduled for the second half of the year.
Is EU4 discontinued?
No. EU4 still receives updates and support even with EU5 out. No new EU4 DLC has been confirmed for 2026, but the game is not abandoned.
What is CK3”s next expansion?
Silk and Silver, which reworks trade and adds playable Republics and Merchants. Our preview tracks every confirmed detail.
2026 is a big year for Paradox grand strategy, and this page is updated as new DLC is announced. Last updated October 9, 2026. Pair it with the CK3 DLC guide and the best EU4 DLC ranking to decide what to buy today.