How to increase Control in Europa Universalis 5?

As an ambitious grand strategy title, Europa Universalis 5 is teeming with complex mechanics that each play into one another, including Control. This mechanic, as the name suggests, essentially determines the player's range of control over a region, which in turn can affect how well they are doing at any given moment.

Since this is such a crucial element of the game, here's eveyrthing to know about it. Read on to know more.

---

What is Control in Europa Universalis 5?

High Control must be maintained at all times for the proper functioning of a nation (Image via Paradox Interactive)

Control is related to Proximity to the Capital, which is established via Roads and Ports. In simple terms, more ways of reaching the Capital reduce Proximity Costs and therefore result in a higher Control value (ranging from 0-100) for any given region under the player's command.

Higher Control means greater Crown Power, which ensures increased trade, Cabinet effectiveness, greater taxing of estates, and more. Here is the full list of values that Control can affect:

• Levy Size
• Local Pop Promotion Speed
• Monthly Manpower
• Pop Assimilation Speed
• Local Crown Power
• Monthly Sailors
• Local Pop Conversion Speed
• Local Market Protection

Now, players might be wondering what they can do to increase Control over their maps in Europa Universalis 5. Here are some ways to achieve that:

---

Ensure Pop Satisfaction

Pops is a shortened version of Population, referring to groups of individuals residing in the players' nation. These form the common citizen of any given inhabited land, from labourers and farmers to soldiers and merchants. This is governed by several factors, including their quality of life, market conditions and religious freedom.

---

Build more modes of transport

Roads, Ports, and Wharfs are all essential for trade and a flourishing society. The former connects land locations via on-foot and vehicular means, while the latter two pertain to sea travel.

---

Have armies in captured areas

Note that newly conquered zones start at zero Control, so having army units in these areas can increase Control.

---

Check out more articles:

• What are the best nations to pick in Europa Universalis 5?