Victoria 3: Dominion vs Protectorate [What’s the Difference?]

Are you torn between which Subject Pact you should go for from Dominion and Protectorate in Victoria 3?

Both these come with their own advantages and drawbacks and your decision to opt for one should be based on your status in the game and how you plan on approaching it.

However, if you don’t have a clear idea on both these subject pacts, you’ll most likely end up making the wrong decision! Well, you’ve nothing to worry about! I’m here to clear it up for you!

Victoria 3: What’s the difference between Dominion and Protectorate?

As per the developers of Victoria 3, Dominion refers to a more colonial relationship with the target country, whereas Protectorate is quite the opposite.

When it comes to autonomy, both feature a pretty high degree of power. Dominion has more of a diplomatic autonomy, with control over its own diplomatic plays and subjects.

A Protectorate has similar powers too, and none are obliged to join your wars. Protectorate will have an impact in the international aspects though and can join your customs union.

Moreover, Protectorate countries or states don’t have to pay any dividends of their income to the overlord.

When it comes to Dominion countries, however, they will pay you 10% from the cash inflow every week and will take part in your market.

While none of them can be annexed directly, you can still make both of these subject pacts go through Diplomatic Plays.

The Dominion can be turned into a Territory, while the Protectorate can be made into a Puppet.

Later on, the Territory and Puppet can be turned into a Vassal and annexed, respectively.

Similar to making countries into Puppets, opting for any of Dominion or Protectorate will cause significant changes in your power and relationship with other countries.

Opting for Dominion helps to keep better relations with other countries because of less infamy and less countries leaving.

Protectorate may lack financial benefits unlike Dominion. Making the wrong country into a Protectorate can initiate wars and reduce allies!

However, it’ll be easier to annex Protectorate countries and states, as you’re just one Diplomatic Play away from turning it into a Puppet.

Wrapping Up

Since Victoria 3 provides huge importance to strategy and planning, you should make well-informed decisions and take your time to think before making the next move.

Based on what you are aiming for and considering the aspects of each subject pact – Dominion and Protectorate – mentioned above, I’m sure you can make the best of decisions!