Ballistics Report

Pros

Interface
This is one mighty deep game that has its complexities nicely reined in by the interface.

Gameplay
Everything from the research tree to how combat is done has been revamped, and it comes out much better. Hearts of Iron feels like a complete title, rather than disjointed sub-games.

Scenarios
The addition of the limited-scope scenarios is a great idea and they provide a great variety of challenges.

Manual
We've often knocked Paradox manuals for being long on historical details and short on explaining the game. The coil-bound manual here is one of the finest we've had the pleasure of perusing.

Improved trade and diplomacy
The trading system is excellent and diplomacy, while limited, is far better than it was.

Cons

Crash bug
There's one recurring crash bug that tends to get at its worst only when the action gets hot and heavy - ie, when the war truly becomes global. Otherwise, this is the most bug-free Paradox game ever.

Limited diplomacy
Diplomatic actions are limited by scripted events and historical considerations, giving the game a more linear outcome than something of grand scope like Europa Universalis or even Victoria would.