I've long thought of giving these games a try, but haven't gotten around to them yet...
They usually take a chunk of time to learn, since they can get pretty intricate. I started off on Victoria II, which has the steepest learning curve (apparently; I haven't played Hearts of Iron 3), but I hear it's probably best to start on EUIII to get a feel for the genre. Of course, each game has a totally different focus, and the recommendation to start off on EUIII is moot now that EUIV is out (and I have no idea how it compares!). If you like court intrigue and the history of the 11th-15th centuries, I'd go for Crusader Kings II. If you like a balance between micro and macro-history, EU is best. If you like mostly economic control, the birth of modern political movements, the industrial revolution, and the 19th century, I'd go Victoria II. If you primarily like battling/invading as well as WWII, HOI3 is best. (Can you tell that I'm obsessed with these?)
I would say there are a fair few of us playing GS games
Be it EU, Vic, HoI, CK, etc
What do you think about the latest update to Vic2?
Excellent! I'm glad that I'm not alone.
I haven't gotten a chance to get HOD for Vic2 yet, but I think the colonial point system is an interesting way to balance the whole scramble mess (at least from a hypothetical standpoint). What's your experience been with that mechanic?