Crusader Kings
| Crusader Kings | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | Paradox entertainment | ||
| Publisher | Paradox entertainment | ||
| Erstveröffent- lichung |
2004 | ||
| platform | Windows , Mac OS | ||
| genre | Real Time - Global strategy game with pause function | ||
| Subject | middle Ages | ||
| Game mode | Single player , multiplayer | ||
| control | Mouse , keyboard | ||
| system advantages preconditions |
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| medium | CD-ROM , download | ||
| language | German English | ||
| Current version | 1.05 or 2.1 with Deus Vult | ||
| Age rating |
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Crusader Kings is a global strategy game for Windows from 2004, which is set in the period of the High and Late Middle Ages . The game, produced by Paradox Interactive , is based on the graphics engine of the popular strategy game Europa Universalis 2 and, like this, runs in real time . The sequel Crusader Kings II was released in 2012.
Gameplay
The player embodies a medieval ruling dynasty and can lead both small counties and huge kingdoms . He exercises diplomatic, economic and ideal rule over his territory, promotes the expansion of his lands and wages wars against hostile sovereigns. At the same time, he must promote the reputation of his family, pursue a wise marriage policy and secure the succession for his heirs. By skillfully marrying into other dynasties, new lands and titles can be gained in a peaceful way and so the own domestic power can be strengthened.
Crusader Kings offered novel concepts, such as the sophisticated vassal system , inheritance and marriage policy and the embodiment of a dynasty. Warfare has been greatly simplified compared to similar games such as Europa Universalis , Hearts of Iron or Victoria: Empire under the Sun. The ruler can only indirectly influence the composition of the troops, armies are automatically shipped and revolts are dealt with through simple provincial penalties. Managing your own family and the farm is much more complicated, as all characters have different characteristics and play values. These role-play elements are also supported by the event system known from Europa Universalis , in which scripted events require the player to make decisions.
The eponymous crusades , in which the Pope calls for the liberation of individual provinces - such as Jerusalem or Byzantium - are of great importance for the game . These crusades can lead to decades of military campaigns by the Catholic kingdoms against the Muslim Emirates. As the game progresses, invading Mongol armies pose a further threat.
Compared to other global strategy games that tend to move faster, land and power acquisitions in Crusader Kings are slow and thoughtful. A large empire that is conquered too quickly is often drowned in revolts and numerous diplomatic entanglements.
control
The map of Europe , divided into provinces, is shown in a top view . Different views can be selected, e.g. B. Political, geographical and risk of rebellion. The perspective can be zoomed in several stages. The game runs in real time at a selectable speed, but can be paused at any time to give new commands in peace during the break. It is controlled with a mouse and keyboard . There is both a single and a multiplayer mode.
Versions and mods
Several official patches have been released for the game. The current patch 1.05 brought several profound changes to the game structure, as it changed the educational system of one's own children, but also the course of the crusades. The fan community has also created two unofficial improvement packs that primarily improve the historical starting conditions (names of rulers and dynasties). Several mods for the game have also appeared.
Deus Vult
On October 4, 2007, the Deus Vult expansion was released as a download-only product. The game was given a general overhaul. Among other things, the graphics have been improved, people have been given new character traits and can develop friendships and rivalries, and children can be sent to other farms as wards . With the introduction of other game concepts such as the stability of an empire, the connection to Europa Universalis was also improved.
Complete package
There is now a “Complete Package” in which both the basic version of CK and the add-on Deus Vult are available. The package is only available in English in stores.
continuation
The sequel Crusader Kings II was released on February 14, 2012. The third part of Crusader Kings III has been announced for 2020 .
Web links
- Crusader Kings series at MobyGames (English)
Individual evidence
- ↑ Crusader Kings II . Paradox Interactive website. Retrieved February 14, 2012.
- ↑ Elena Schulz: Crusader Kings 3 announced: First trailer, release period & information. In: GameStar . October 19, 2019, accessed October 20, 2019 .