The medieval world of Crusader Kings III has just grown infinitely larger and more intricate. With the release of the All Under Heaven major expansion, Paradox Development Studio invites us to finally turn our eyes eastward, expanding the map to encompass the rich, storied lands of China, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
This is more than just a map expansion; it’s an invitation to a completely new realm of dynastic intrigue, warfare, and cultural splendour. If you’ve ever yearned to guide a Japanese clan to the Shogunate or navigate the treacherous waters of Imperial Chinese politics, your time has come!
The Mandate of Heaven: The Celestial Empire
China arrives with its own, deeply simulated political and dynastic system. Forget your feudal contracts; here, you’re dealing with the Dynastic Cycle.
- The Dynastic Cycle: This “living system of stability and chaos” means the fortunes of the Celestial Empire are constantly shifting. As a ruler, you must manage stability, exploit periods of tension and chaos to rise to power, or simply try to hold on as the world crumbles around you.
- The Hegemony Title: Ascend to the highest tier of power in the region, reigning supreme over all other empires in the Chinese sphere.
- Meritocracy and the Imperial Examinations: Forget inherited titles alone. The unique Celestial government system introduces Merit as a resource, earned through deeds and the famed Imperial Examinations. You’ll need to master the art of statecraft to gain favour and influence in the Imperial Court.
- Imperial Treasury: Fund Great Projects, defend against natural disasters, and exert your influence with the might of the state.
Rise of the Shogunate: Samurai and Courtly Intrigue
The archipelago of Japan offers a completely different, yet equally deep, experience centred on honour, ritual, and military might.
- The Path to Shogun: Start as a Japanese House and climb the intricate courtly ladder. Will you be a mighty Shogun, the military dictator, or a Kampaku regent, the chief advisor to the Emperor?
- Samurai Armies: Unify the houses through the strength of your legendary samurai warriors. Alliances, intrigue, and ancient rituals are your tools to strengthen your position.
- The Imperial Yamato House: For a challenging campaign, you can lead the Imperial Yamato House and attempt to restore actual power to the Emperor, ushering in an age of imperial grandeur over military rule.
God-Kings and Temple Empires in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia presents a spiritual and decentralised path to power, focusing on tributary networks and divine rule.
- Mandala Government: Rule as a Devaraja (God-King) with the new Mandala Government, uniting various tributaries into vast, temple-centred empires like Angkor or Pagan.
- Devaraja Aspects: Choose the nature of the deity you represent, with your strength growing if you live up to the promises of your chosen divine Aspect.
- The Wanua Government: For those playing in the island territories, a new maritime Tribal government allows for bartering and raiding across the seas, perfect for founding a powerful maritime empire.
Trade and Expansion: The Silk Road and Beyond
The map expansion itself is monumental, adding an estimated 30% more territory to the game. But it also introduces vital economic arteries.
- The Silk Road: Trade now traces its way across the expanded continent, bringing wealth and innovation. Even if you don’t directly control the Celestial Empire, profiting from the Silk Road will be a key strategic element for many rulers, old and new.
- New Bookmarks: Fresh starting bookmarks let you dive into pivotal historical moments, such as the decline of the Tang dynasty leading into the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms era, or the eve of Japan’s Genpei War.
Crusader Kings III: All Under Heaven truly delivers on the promise of a full medieval world, offering unprecedented depth and replayability in the East. Whether you’re a grand strategy veteran or a fresh-faced feudal lord, this expansion opens up a world of new stories waiting to be told.
Have you already started your journey in the East? What dynasty are you playing, and what are your ambitions? Let us know in the comments below!
Crusader Kings III: All Under Heaven – http://pdxint.at/4ofnX5t
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