Hearts of Iron 4 is no stranger to being a modding powerhouse where users have developed entirely new scenarios based on alternative history or based on other games/media. “Old World Blues” is a remarkable total conversion mod for Hearts of Iron IV, set in the post-apocalyptic universe of Fallout. This mod transports players to the year 2275, offering a unique blend of strategy and storytelling that captures the essence of the Fallout series. They capture the essence of the fallout games but it’s primary focus is several years before the fallout new vegas game. In this article we aim to show an overview of what makes this mod so captivating.

A Post-Apocalyptic Setting around the fallout franchise
In “Old World Blues” it immerses players in a world ravaged by nuclear war, where factions vie for control of the wasteland. This is based on the fallout franchise in an alternative reality of the USA after 200 years of nuclear fallout. The mod introduces a dynamic war system, ensuring that AI nations act unpredictably, creating a challenging and engaging experience. It adds many new mechanics to the hearts of iron 4 engine such as a money system ( that uses caps ) just like in the fallout universe.
Factions and Lore
The mod features a wide array of factions, each with its own rich backstory and unique gameplay mechanics. From the New California Republic to Caesar’s Legion, players can explore the intricate politics and conflicts of the Fallout universe. There are many submods that add additional nations/factions such as Enclave Reborn sub mod that adds a west coast revival of enclave in the Sierra Nevada.
Gameplay Enhancements
“Old World Blues” goes beyond the base game by adding new technologies, units, and events tailored to the Fallout setting. Players can research advanced technologies, manage resources, and navigate the complexities of post-apocalyptic diplomacy.
Community and Updates
The mod has a dedicated community of fans and developers who continuously update and expand its content. Submods, such as “East Coast Rebirth” and “Fountain of Dreams,” further enrich the experience by introducing new regions and storylines.
Whether you’re a fan of Fallout or a strategy enthusiast, “Old World Blues” offers a fresh and immersive take on the Hearts of Iron IV gameplay. You can explore the mod and its features on its Steam Workshop page. Dive into the wasteland and shape the future of a fractured world!

Mod Features
The “Old World Blues” mod for Hearts of Iron IV introduces a host of unique features that enhance gameplay while immersing players in the Fallout universe. Here’s a list of its key features:
- Post-Apocalyptic Setting: Set in the year 2275, the mod brings the nuclear wasteland of the Fallout series to life, complete with lore, factions, and worldbuilding.
- Diverse Factions: Over 60 playable factions, ranging from iconic groups like the New California Republic and Caesar’s Legion to smaller, lore-rich groups, each with unique focus trees and narratives.
- Custom Mechanics: Introduces new mechanics, such as scavenging for resources, managing advanced technologies, and building up your faction’s culture and ideology.
- Technology Trees: Unique technology trees that include pre-war advancements and post-apocalyptic inventions, such as robotics, energy weapons, and more.
- Dynamic Warfare: Combat mechanics and AI behaviors tailored to the challenges of post-apocalyptic survival and expansion.
- Expansive Map: A detailed map of North America and parts of Central America, divided into territories inspired by the Fallout universe’s lore.
- Custom Units: Adds unique units like robotic armies, mutated creatures, and specialized infantry that fit within the game’s setting.
- Narrative Events: Engaging story-driven events that reflect the gritty and humorous aspects of the Fallout world, adding depth to the factions and gameplay.
- Submods and Expansions: A thriving community continuously creates submods and expansions, introducing additional regions, factions, and features, such as “Fountain of Dreams” and “East Coast Rebirth.”
- Regular Updates: The development team frequently updates the mod to ensure balance, new content, and compatibility with the latest game version.
- Graphics and Soundtrack: Custom visuals and a soundtrack inspired by the Fallout series, enhancing immersion and setting the mood.
- Roleplay Opportunities: Emphasizes storytelling and roleplay, allowing players to shape their faction’s destiny in the wasteland.
This combination of features makes Old World Blues a rich, strategic, and story-driven experience, blending the core gameplay of Hearts of Iron IV with the unforgettable setting of Fallout. Let me know if you’d like a deeper dive into any specific feature!
References:
Old World Blues Steam Workshop page
Old World Blues Mod Discord