How to run Steam Workshop mods on the GOG version of EU4

By default, running mods on the GOG version of Eu4 is a frustrating experience, particularly if you want to run mods from the Steam Workshop. The way that the Steam version of EU4 stores mods makes it difficult to move those mods to a GOG install. However, you can use junction links to trick a GOG install of EU4 into loading mods from the directory used by the Steam version of the game.

You will need both the Steam and the GOG version of EU4 installed in order for this to work. The GOG install must be legally acquired.

1. Install Link Shell Extension. This tool allows you to create symbolic links and junctions through the Windows GUI. I don't think this tool supports Windows 11's new right click dropdown, so if you're on Windows 11, install WinAero Tweaker, and enable "Classic Full Context Menus."

2. Install the GOG version of EU4.

3. Navigate to ~/Documents/Paradox Interactive. In this directory are two folders, "Europa Universalis IV" and "Europa Universalis IV GOG." Assuming you are on a fresh install for the GOG version, delete every folder in "Europa Universalis IV GOG".

4. Navigate to "~/Documents/Paradox Interactive/Europa Universalis IV" (non-GOG). Select every folder in this directory, right click the selection, and click "Pick Link Source".

5. Navigate back to "~/Documents/Paradox Interactive/Europa Universalis IV GOG". Right click on a blank area of the screen, and select "Drop As" - > "Junction". This will create junction links pointing to each folder in the Steam version of EU4 in the GOG version's directory. Junction links are different from symbolic links, in that EU4 can't tell the difference between a junction link and a standard folder, but symbolic links appear invisible to EU4.

6. You can now subscribe to mods from the Steam workshop, and play those mods from the GOG version of EU4.