Everything coming to CONGO in Hearts of Iron IV: Götterdämmerung

Summary

In the upcoming *Hearts of Iron* expansion, 'Götterdammerung,' the often-overlooked role of Congo in World War II is highlighted. With rich resources like gold, diamonds, and uranium, Congo supported Belgium and the Allies while providing critical materials for the war effort. The game introduces a shared focus tree between Congo and Belgium, offering unique gameplay mechanics that reflect their historical relationship. Players can navigate paths toward independence, manage valuable resources, and develop military strategies, showcasing Congo's complex history and potential for autonomy within the broader context of the conflict.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Congo played a crucial yet underappreciated role in World War II, supporting the Allied effort with its resources.
• 💰 The wealth from Congo, particularly gold and diamonds, kept the Belgian government in exile financially stable.
• ⚔️ Congolese soldiers fought alongside the Allies in the Force Publique, notably against Italians in Ethiopia.
• 🔋 Congo's rubber, copper, and cobalt were essential resources after Southeast Asia fell to Japan.
• ☢️ The Congo held the world's largest known uranium deposits, critical for the Manhattan Project.
• 🇧🇪 The focus tree for Congo and Belgium includes joint focuses that benefit both nations upon completion.
• 🏗️ Resource management is key, with focuses allowing Congo to boost its economy and Belgium to gain political power.
• 📈 Congo's path to independence involves strategic choices that can increase or decrease its autonomy.
• 🪖 After independence, Congo can develop a professional military and choose various political directions, including democracy or communism.
• 🤝 The game mechanics emphasize the complexities of colonial relationships, balancing resource extraction with the pursuit of autonomy.

Q & A

What is the focus of the country showcase presented by Peter Nicholson?

The showcase focuses on Congo's significant role and contributions during the Second World War, particularly in the context of its relationship with Belgium.

How did Congo contribute to Belgium's war effort during WWII?

Congo provided financial stability through its wealth in gold and diamonds, supplied rubber, copper, cobalt, and was critical for uranium used in the Manhattan Project.

What role did Congolese soldiers play in the war?

Congolese soldiers fought alongside the Allies in the Force Publique, notably against the Italians in Ethiopia.

What are the main branches of focuses for Congo in the game?

Congo's focuses are divided into colonial branches, pre-independence political branches, and post-independence military and government structures.

What is the significance of the 'Heart of Africa' focus?

The 'Heart of Africa' focus enhances Congo's research speed while granting political power to Belgium, emphasizing their interlinked strategies.

What potential outcomes exist for Congo after completing its political focuses?

Congo can achieve various statuses, including being annexed, remaining a puppet, becoming a Dominion, or declaring full independence as the Republic of Congo.

How does the colonial branch affect Congo's autonomy?

The colonial branch can either increase or decrease Congo's autonomy based on the focuses chosen, influencing its path toward independence.

What are the implications of Belgium completing the 'Uranium Development Trust' focus?

Completing this focus provides Belgium with bonuses for nuclear special projects, showcasing Congo's resource significance.

How can Congo approach its independence path in the game?

Congo can pursue independence peacefully through democratic support or opt for a more violent path, affecting its future political landscape.

What unique feature does Congo have regarding political diversity after independence?

Congo can form a council of ministers if no single ideology gains enough support, leading to a selection of a ruler from regional monarchs.