The single most significant change in 1.9 is the total removal of on-map garrisons. Previously, players suppressed rebels by parking cheap cavalry divisions in every occupied city—a tedious process dubbed the "Mongol cavalry horde".

The and its accompanying La Résistance DLC represent one of the game's most radical shifts in core gameplay, moving away from simple map-painting toward a more complex, bureaucratic simulation of occupation and intrigue. While veterans praised the depth it added to the "slow" parts of the war, it remains a controversial turning point for many players due to its increased micro-management. The End of the "Cavalry Horde"

: Occupation is now a constant drain on manpower and equipment. High resistance increases supply usage and attrition, forcing you to choose between aggressive expansion and stable borders. Espionage: Flavor vs. Tedium

The DLC adds a full intelligence agency system, allowing you to recruit spies for various operations. The Biggest Problem With Hearts Of Iron 4 In 2026

: Resistance and compliance are now managed through an off-map system where you assign a template (ideally armored cars) to handle order.