Developer Paradox Interactive has just announced when fans will be able to play the next installment of its grand strategy game series, Crusader Kings III. The game is set to release in the fall of this year for PC via Steam, the Microsoft Store, and the Paradox Store.
Crusader Kings III follows Crusader Kings II, which was released in 2012. The main goal is simple in Crusader Kings III: a player picks from a number of historical figures and dynasties and then controls every aspect of this dynasty so that it can succeed. This includes military, economic, and diplomatic matters. In comparison to Paradox Interactive’s other strategy franchise Europa Universalis, which has players controlling an omnipotent and all seeing “observer” of sorts, the Crusader Kings series puts an emphasis on the importance of keeping your bloodline alive and strong by strategizing marriages, whether it be for political or other purposes. Marriages with rulers who have strong traits are also preferable as it strengthens the players’ offspring.
Crusader Kings III will offer a plethora of starting points for its players, from noble houses in between Iceland and India to a lowly court from a map spanning Central Africa and the Arctic Circle. Staying true to historical facts, a number of events such as the emergence of knights, peasant revolts, and Viking raiders will bring life to this recreation of the Middle Ages.
As for its character customization, a “LIfestyle” system is introduced wherein players have to choose unique lifestyles that are best suited for their historical figure’s personalities and their own ambition. These are Diplomacy, Martial, Stewardship, Intrigue, and Learning. As for your character, you can pick from anyone from a Holy Roman Emperor, a Viking king, a Byzantine noble, an Arab caliph, or any of thousands of other possibilities. Other factors such the way your heirs and heiresses will develop, defending your faith against heretics, or even forming your own splinter religion is possible in Crusader Kings III.
Crusader Kings III is set to launch for the PC via Steam, the Microsoft Store, the Paradox Store, and Xbox Game Pass for PC on September 1 for $49.99. Pre-orders are available right now if you wwwant to get your copy as early as poossible.
