Hearts of Iron 4 Developers Improve AI and Balance Ahead of New Update
The Hearts of Iron IV development team shared details about their current work on game updates. Since the release of the first open beta version, specialists have focused on several key areas.
Significant efforts have been directed at improving artificial intelligence performance in naval battles. Compared to version 1.17.3, the indicators have noticeably improved. However, the developers acknowledge that there is still work to be done — these tasks will be addressed in future updates.
One identified problem is that the AI can run out of escort ships (screens), causing patrols to stop going out to sea. Without patrols, strike forces lose effectiveness. Meanwhile, the AI may still have large ships available to defend against naval invasions but does not use them for patrolling — even as a last resort, although this is costly and not very effective.
As part of the release of version 1.17, a long-standing bug dating back to NCNS was fixed: players could abuse damage from direct close air support (CAS). After the fix, related problems emerged — in particular, insufficient effectiveness of AI actions in the air.
In addition, the developers have taken first steps toward rebalancing the anti-aircraft armament of divisions. This work will continue shortly.
Previously, the developers had somewhat overdone the weakening of the Soviet Union — it was decided to conduct a deeper analysis of how the AI plays this country and make corresponding improvements. Similar, though less extensive, adjustments were made for Germany and England.
Most of these changes were made based on player feedback. The team will continue monitoring the situation and making necessary adjustments to ensure a more balanced and historically accurate gameplay experience.