Crusader Kings 3 offers a wealth of activities, and its open-ended structure can be quite daunting for someone new to this genre.
The extensive freedom offered in the game is a great feature for experienced players, but I don’t fall into that category. I was drawn to Crusader Kings 3 due to the captivating narratives I encountered, and the fact that it’s available for free through Xbox Game Pass.
During the initial moments of the game, I found myself completely bewildered. It wasn’t until I discovered that the player’s role is to guide the narrative that the enjoyment of the game truly became apparent.
This introductory guide to Crusader Kings 3 is designed for newcomers to the series and the genre as a whole. We will explore the dynamic storytelling mechanics of the game and provide guidance on making choices that will guide the narrative in a specific direction that aligns with your preferences.
Regard the tutorial as essential.
Contents
Crusader Kings 3 is a complex interplay of various systems interacting with one another. As you make choices, the game generates results influenced by your actions, while simultaneously presenting numerous additional scenarios that demand your response. It’s akin to the experience of playing The Sims.
Navigating the complexities of the game can be quite difficult without a well-structured tutorial to clarify the underlying mechanics. As soon as you launch Crusader Kings 3, it promptly presents a beginner scenario to help ease the cognitive demands. To fully appreciate the game, it’s advisable to treat the tutorial as essential.
There’s a wealth of knowledge to absorb, yet the guide simplifies the process. Image: Paradox Interactive via Polygon.
In the meantime, enjoy a beverage and a snack while you navigate the tutorial. This initial session replicates the gameplay you will encounter, albeit at a much slower speed. The tutorial gradually familiarizes you with various systems and clarifies their roles. There’s no need to memorize every detail; simply progress at your own pace. After completing the tutorial, you can either carry on with the tutorial character or exit and begin a new game.
At any moment, there are numerous systems to consider, and it’s beneficial to have some awareness of them. Fortunately, as a newcomer, you don’t have to engage with every single one constantly to have a good time. As you develop your own approach to the game, you’ll instinctively focus on the systems that are most relevant to your playstyle.
Examine the text in blue.
By hovering over the blue text, you can access crucial definitions and explanations related to the game mechanics. If you find yourself confused, take the time to read these, and refer to the blue text to refresh your memory on specific terms and concepts. As you come across these ideas more frequently, your understanding of the game will deepen.
You can truly immerse yourself in the meanings if you wish. Image: Paradox Interactive via Polygon
Don’t anticipate that everything will become clear in just a few hours. Concentrate on the game mechanics that catch your interest and delve into the aspects you wish to understand better. You can delve into layers of definitions that can almost overwhelm your screen, highlighting the intricate nature of Crusader Kings 3.
Heed the recommendations and address the emerging pop-up notifications.
While playing Crusader Kings 3, you’ll notice various pieces of guidance, challenges, and choices presented at the top of your screen. These elements highlight the most urgent matters facing your realm. Whenever you’re uncertain about your next move, simply focus on the icons displayed in this section.
I was unaware that my successor was single until the game revealed it to me. Image: Paradox Interactive via Polygon
Guidance pertains to significant choices and is represented by diamond-shaped symbols. While they may not always be visible, when they do appear, it is essential to address them as a top priority.
The list of issues is represented by a circular cross icon featuring a number. This icon will show a collection of recommendations and circumstances that may require your focus, although they may not necessarily be urgent.
The game presents scenarios and recommendations that deserve attention. Image: Paradox Interactive via Polygon.
If there are no issues displayed, simply click the refresh icon located next to the Current Situations label, and the game will create new issues for you. Whenever you find yourself uncertain about your next steps, refresh your situations and adhere to the provided recommendations.
This section will display other significant decisions and reminders, so be sure to address anything that comes up. You’ll also find crucial tasks that might slip your mind, such as selecting new skills and perks, listed here.
Your way of living defines the class of your character.
In Crusader Kings 3, you have the opportunity to shape your legacy as a ruler through diplomacy, aggression, or a more subdued approach. At the beginning of a new game or upon the death of your current character, you must select a lifestyle option for their successor. This decision influences your character’s effectiveness in making crucial choices aligned with your chosen gameplay style.
Consider your way of living as selecting a character class in a role-playing game.
You can select from a variety of lifestyles, including Diplomacy, Martial, Stewardship, Intrigue, and Learning. Each lifestyle emphasizes different aspects, influencing the stats that receive enhancements. Additionally, within each lifestyle, there are three skill trees tailored to complement a particular approach to gameplay.
Consider your way of living as the foundation of your character development. Image: Paradox Interactive via Polygon
- Choose Diplomacy as your area of emphasis if your goal is to become a leader who prioritizes the connections between different nations and your own citizens.
- Adopting a martial lifestyle can be beneficial for those aiming to establish a thriving empire through effective military strategy.
- Players who prioritize stewardship are focused on creating an empire that generates wealth for individual benefit and enhances the well-being of their citizens.
- Choose Intrigue as your way of life if you seek to uncover hidden truths and influence others to expand your influence.
- Pursuing education is an excellent decision if your goal is to establish a legacy rooted in understanding and the study of sacred writings.
Every character you control will naturally lean towards one of these lifestyles. Nevertheless, you are not confined to a single path dictated by your chosen lifestyle. In reality, regardless of the playstyle you adopt, you will still have to employ a variety of other skills to advance in the game. For example, if you decide to focus on Intrigue, you will still have to demonstrate your Martial abilities in battles.
Regardless of the lifestyle you choose, the leader you govern will have certain weaknesses. To compensate for these deficiencies, you can depend on your council to fill the gaps.
Be mindful of your council.
While you will be responsible for the majority of important choices in your kingdom, you will not be the sole ruler. To help you manage various facets of your domain, you will have six council members, each dedicated to specific areas of your realm.
At the beginning of your game, every position will be occupied by a member of your realm who is most qualified for the task. Your council is crucial to your governance, offering ongoing assistance and oversight in various domains such as religious advancement, diplomacy, and strategic planning. The effectiveness of each member in their respective role is determined by the relevant skill level needed for their position.
Apart from your partner, every individual in your council has three choices available. The effectiveness of these tasks will vary depending on various factors, such as their skill levels and their perception of you.
When characters exit your domain, whether through death or departure, it’s essential to find suitable replacements. As you select new members, be sure to evaluate the skill levels of each candidate. Opt for new council members whose skills align with the specific requirements of the position you need to fill.
