Canada’s Role in World War II
Canada played a significant role in World War II as one of the most impactful colonies of the United Kingdom. From start to finish, they contributed to the Allied efforts more than most countries.
Despite their historical significance, Paradox Interactive has portrayed Canada as one of the most boring options in HOI4. While it may seem similar to playing as the US, in reality, Canada is a challenging country to lead in the game.
General Strategy for Canada in HOI4
One of the first things to do is to break away from the United Kingdom. While choosing the historical path of Strengthening the Commonwealth Ties may provide industry bonuses, it can be dull. The real choice lies between embracing Fascist or Communist ideologies.
Opting for the Communist path may lead to a lack of Manpower or a war against a powerful 1940 USA, which is not ideal. To make things interesting, consider going the route of the Blue Shirts and putting Adrien Arcand in power. Since Canada’s focus tree may not be appealing, improvisation is key.
By causing a civil war, you can liberate Canada from British control and access essential focuses like War Bonds and National Steel Car. Justify on the UK to raise World Tension, and aim to conquer territories to establish dominance in North America.
How to Start as Canada in HOI4
National Focuses
Complete specific focuses to enhance your Manpower and industry capabilities:
- Patriation
- Clubs
- Rowell-Sirois Commission
- Crown Corporations
- National Housing Act
- War Bonds
- Canadian Pacific Railway
- Defense of Canada Regulations
- Wartime Prices and Trade Board
- Canada Wheat Board
- Commit to the War
- Support the Blue Shirts
- Send in the Zombies
- National Resources Mobilization Act
- Mine the Shield
- Alberta Coal Towns
- National Steel Car
Focus on these areas to build a strong foundation for your strategy. Utilize the decisions and political tabs wisely to make critical choices.
Construction
Maximize Civilian Factories in Southern Ontario before transitioning to Military Factories for production.
Production
Allocate Military Factories to produce Infantry Equipment and Naval Dockyards to build Convoys. Prioritize Cavalry for your divisions and avoid unnecessary investments.
Military
Position your divisions in Southern Ontario and refrain from training new ones. Sell surplus planes in the market and focus on enhancing your Cavalry division. Prepare for the upcoming conflict with the US.
How to Defeat the USA
Civil War
Initiate a civil war after completing necessary focuses like Clubs and start justifying on the UK to escalate World Tension. Employ strategic tactics to secure victory against the old regime in Canada.
Prepare for a confrontation with the US by building an Intelligence Agency and collaborating with American forces. Aim to have a high Collaboration Government with the US before declaring war on them.
When engaging in battle, prioritize seizing Victory Points along the western and eastern borders to gain the upper hand. Utilize alliances and strategic planning to overcome the challenges posed by the USA.
What to Do After
Following a successful campaign against the USA, consider siding with either the Axis or the Allies to further assert your dominance. With a formidable navy and significant power, Canada can become a key player in the global conflict.
Prepare for potential conflicts with Japan if aligning with the Axis, or leverage your acquired fleet from the UK and the US to solidify your position as a maritime superpower.
Conquering territories and securing alliances are vital to Canada’s success in Hearts of Iron 4. Share your thoughts and suggestions on this guide in the comments below!