Hearts of Iron III is a global-strategy game with a high focus on realism. Once again the game lets the player take over the control of any nation present from the period 1936-1948 during which the game takes place and do with it what he wants. The game also presents several scenarios that cover different time intervals, allowing the player to choose between preparing for battle or starting in the middle of the affair. Also, the game includes a strong scenario editor to make the situation fit your preferences. Although the game is real-time, the player can speed up and slow down time or even pause to make his decisions.