FAQ

Does Anvil modify the game?

No. eu4.exe and the game files are never changed. Windows loads Anvil’s version.dll together with the game; it forwards every call to the system version.dll and also loads plugins. Plugins change code in memory only, for the current session.

Is it safe?

Plugins are native code and run with the same permissions as the game, like any other program you install. Only install plugins you trust. Anvil itself never downloads anything, and its releases come with SHA-256 checksums.

Does it work with mods, Ironman and achievements?

Anvil is independent of the mods you enable in the launcher. Whether a plugin affects Ironman, achievements or multiplayer depends on the plugin: each one declares whether it changes gameplay, and the plugin page shows it. Plugins that do not change gameplay, such as EU4 Startup Boost, only change how fast or how smoothly the game runs.

The effect on Ironman and achievements has not been verified yet. This answer will be updated once it has been tested.

What happens when EU4 updates?

Plugins that do not support the new build are skipped automatically, and the game starts as usual. Updated plugins will support the new build.

Which game versions are supported?

Anvil runs on Windows, 64-bit, Steam. Supported builds depend on each plugin; see the plugin pages.

Who makes Anvil?

Happy Dwarf Team. Anvil is an unofficial community project under the MIT license, not affiliated with Paradox Interactive.