Crusader Kings II

An unforgettable wander through the bastions, banquet halls and bedchambers of Medieval Europe.

Starting at $168.10Buy now

The Dark Ages might be drawing to a close, but Europe is still in turmoil. Petty lords vie against beleaguered kings who struggle to assert control over their fragmented realms. The Pope calls for a Crusade to protect the Christians in the Holy Land even as he refuses to relinquish control over the investiture of bishops - and their riches. Now is the time for greatness. Expand your demesne and se…

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Reviews

93%

Audience ScoreBased on 22,332 reviews

gameplay414 positive mentions

grinding65 negative mentions

gameplay
1,728 mentions
24 % positive mentions
73 % neutral mentions
3 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Crusader Kings II" is characterized by its deep and intricate mechanics, focusing on dynasty management, political intrigue, and emergent storytelling. Players navigate a steep learning curve, with numerous systems to master, including relationships, wars, and succession laws, which can lead to varied and unpredictable outcomes. While the game offers a rich sandbox experience with high replayability, many core mechanics are locked behind a substantial amount of DLC, which has drawn criticism for its pricing model. Overall, the game is praised for its immersive and complex gameplay, though it may be daunting for newcomers.
- “Deep and complex gameplay: Crusader Kings II is renowned for its intricate and deep gameplay mechanics, offering players the opportunity to manage a dynasty across centuries.”
- “The gameplay, while itself featuring a pretty steep learning curve to those new to the genre, provides the perfect vector through which to influence the world and the events therein.”
- “The sheer variety of starting characters and historical bookmarks, coupled with the open-ended nature of the gameplay, means you can replay Crusader Kings II countless times and still uncover new narratives and challenges.”
- “The learning curve is steep, and the gameplay is brutally capricious.”
- “The tutorial is not really the best there is to teach you the game; but playing the game itself teaches you quite well if you are willing to try to figure out mechanics on your own.”
- “The gameplay is minimal, mostly clicking character portraits and areas on a map and navigating through menus, and it's not especially entertaining moment-to-moment.”
story
830 mentions
20 % positive mentions
78 % neutral mentions
2 % negative mentions
The story aspect of "Crusader Kings II" is highly praised for its emergent narrative, allowing players to craft unique and complex tales through their choices and interactions with a richly detailed world. Each playthrough offers a different experience, filled with unexpected twists, character development, and intricate political intrigue, making it a standout title for those who enjoy storytelling in games. While the game lacks a traditional narrative structure, it compensates with a dynamic storytelling engine that generates compelling scenarios, ensuring that no two games are ever the same.
- “With its rich historical context, deep gameplay mechanics, and engaging storytelling, this game stands as a testament to the brilliance of the genre.”
- “The random open-ended nature the course of events can take, like in real life you have a good plan that normally should work but... it is not about grinding, winning, prevailing, getting a high score, it is about the story, the journey through generations.”
- “This game is a story generator, a huge sandbox full of random events and variables, a game in which even defeat and utter failure can become fun.”
- “This game is like watching a movie without a plot, where the characters are just a set of attributes on a spreadsheet.”
- “The game may lack any semblance of storyline, but the organic way in which small events can snowball into much larger ones can create a far more interesting and unique story than any hard-coded script.”
- “If you are someone who needs/wants a clearly defined goal and several objective markers to remind you what those goals are in all your games with constant gratification of completing quests and a story with cutscenes, this game is not for you.”
replayability
617 mentions
47 % positive mentions
51 % neutral mentions
2 % negative mentions
Crusader Kings II is widely praised for its exceptional replayability, with players highlighting the game's vast array of characters, cultures, and events that ensure no two playthroughs are alike. The extensive modding community and numerous DLCs further enhance the game's depth and variety, making it a favorite among strategy enthusiasts. Despite some critiques regarding its complexity and the cost of DLC, the overall consensus is that the game offers near-infinite replay value, keeping players engaged for hundreds, if not thousands, of hours.
- “Infinitely replayable, there's always some new and totally unique way of playing waiting for you to try every time you start a new game.”
- “The replay value is immense, as there is a nearly endless combination of cultures, religions, heresies, government types... character creator, map options, randomizers...and the ability to mod...”
- “This game has provided me more replayability than anything else in my library.”
- “Could use more content, little replay value.”
- “Not much replayability, can't recommend.”
- “My only real complaint is that it has low replayability.”
music
307 mentions
25 % positive mentions
71 % neutral mentions
4 % negative mentions
The music in Crusader Kings II is generally praised for its immersive and fitting medieval soundtrack, enhancing the game's atmosphere significantly. However, many players find the music can become repetitive over time, leading some to prefer using their own playlists or mods for variety. While the base game offers a solid soundtrack, numerous DLC music packs are available, though many reviewers suggest these are not essential and often consider them cosmetic additions rather than necessary content.
- “The sound design is fantastic for this kind of game - the music is grand and just varied enough to keep monotony at bay, the UI sounds are satisfying with their clicks and paper shuffling, even the sounds of battle or minor events imbue CK2 with a vibrancy not found in other games, especially not other grand strategy titles.”
- “The music is fantastic and really fits with the period.”
- “The soundtrack is amazing, the story is phenomenal, and the graphics are really beautiful too :) 10/10 without a doubt!”
- “The soundtrack is amusing the first couple of times, but after a while it starts to wear on you.”
- “Separating music, textures, and content into three separate DLCs was awful when this developer started doing this at the beginning, but they have made this an excessive habit and a terrible entertainment experience.”
- “The music can be a bit repetitive, so after playing for a while, I recommend lowering the volume and putting on something in the background to counter it.”
graphics
297 mentions
26 % positive mentions
65 % neutral mentions
9 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are generally considered outdated and simplistic, with many reviewers noting that they do not detract from the overall gameplay experience. While the art style is historically fitting and the visuals are clear, they lack the polish and detail found in more contemporary titles. Players emphasize that the game's depth and mechanics are far more important than its graphical fidelity, making it appealing for those who prioritize strategy over aesthetics.
- “The aesthetics with the use of art with: war, family title holders (coat of arms), landscape, relative history, religion, and usage of language(s) make it feel you really are sitting above the world with influence to make an affluent mark throughout the game.”
- “Although the graphics and interface may seem a bit dated by now, they don’t diminish the joy one has playing the game.”
- “The graphics are solid and the overall UI looks appealing... but after playing for two afternoons I'm a bit stunned there isn't more of a balance in the reviews.”
- “Graphics and UI: while the game's depth compensates for its graphical limitations, the visuals and user interface are not as polished as some other contemporary titles.”
- “Graphically, Crusader Kings II is probably about as attractive as a game like this can be with the majority of the display occupied by a vast interactive 3D map.”
- “The graphics are passable, barely enough to serve the game's purpose.”
humor
238 mentions
100 % positive mentions
-1 % neutral mentions
1 % negative mentions
The humor in "Crusader Kings II" is a standout feature, characterized by its dark, absurd, and often unexpected comedic moments that arise from the game's intricate mechanics and random events. Players appreciate the blend of historical context with outrageous scenarios, such as bizarre character traits and ludicrous plot twists, which create a rich tapestry of hilarious storytelling. While the humor may not appeal to everyone, it resonates particularly well with those who enjoy role-playing and strategy games, making for a uniquely entertaining experience.
- “If you are into history, map-style grand strategy games, and hilarious events like 'because you joined a Satanist cult your back has bent and you now eternally face the ground, and your lord, Satan - you have gained the hump-back trait', then this game will be for you!”
- “The best way I like to describe this game is that it's more like an interactive book than anything else, and you could get so lost in the anticipation of what's going to happen next, and the funny and immersive stories that can unfold.”
- “In short, Crusader Kings II is a majestic feudal sandbox, the greatest generator of hilarious medieval soap opera ever created and Paradox Interactive’s best title to date.”
- “The humor in the game feels outdated and falls flat, making it hard to stay engaged.”
- “I expected a lot more laughs, but the jokes just don't land like they used to.”
- “The attempts at humor are so forced that they often ruin the overall experience.”
grinding
69 mentions
4 % positive mentions
1 % neutral mentions
94 % negative mentions
Reviews highlight that while the game offers a rich narrative and complex mechanics, it often suffers from tedious grinding, particularly in managing realms and dealing with random events. Many players find the slow pace and micromanagement aspects frustrating, leading to a sense of monotony over time, despite the potential for rewarding gameplay. Overall, the experience can be both immersive and time-consuming, requiring patience to navigate its intricacies.
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “A bit grindy sometimes.”
- “Buy this game if the 4X genre isn't tedious enough for you.”
- “While I appreciate the complexity and depth of the game, I find it to be too slow and tedious.”
- “It seems every cool option or decision is guarded behind numerous tedious mechanics that are primarily manipulated through luck.”
- “Everything strategic comes slow and tedious in this game; technology, territory improvements, money, conquest, etc. You have to jump through a dozen hoops just to see a small gain.”
stability
64 mentions
8 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
92 % negative mentions
The stability of the game is a mixed bag, with many users reporting significant bugs and glitches that can disrupt gameplay, particularly in multiplayer modes. While some players find the game relatively stable and enjoyable, others describe it as a "buggy mess" that becomes increasingly unstable over time, especially with older saves and during complex scenarios. Regular patches are noted, but the overall sentiment leans towards disappointment due to persistent issues that detract from the experience.
- “Seems to be a stable, bug-free game.”
- “Good game with no glitches at all, definitely none.”
- “Also runs great on Linux, thank you for making a native build!”
- “The vanilla version of this game is a buggy, unplayable mess.”
- “This game literally crashes every single time I launch it, no mods installed; it's just not playable, plain and simple. The audio cuts out in the middle of the map screen and your whole screen freezes every single time.”
- “The multiplayer game is so buggy it makes it unplayable.”
optimization
47 mentions
11 % positive mentions
55 % neutral mentions
34 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is generally well-received for early and mid-game performance, but significant issues arise in the late-game, particularly on less powerful hardware, leading to slowdowns and performance drops. Many players recommend using third-party mods to enhance performance, as the game struggles with resource management and stability, especially with multiple DLCs. Overall, while some recent patches have improved performance, the game still requires a strong processor and may not run smoothly in extensive campaigns.
- “Optimization: well-optimized for most systems.”
- “Always loved this game and it really works well on my low-performance fan-less mini-PC.”
- “Given the recent optimization it received, I can see myself playing this game at least 5 years from now.”
- “Performance issues in late-game: as campaigns progress into the later centuries, the game may experience performance issues and slowdowns, particularly on less powerful hardware.”
- “The only downside for this game is that very late game it runs poorly; the Black Death would help your performance by killing off a lot of people, but if you play a long game, most of the world has built good hospitals.”
- “Ugh, forget about the DLC practices, this game is so poorly optimized I'll probably never see what makes it so good.”
monetization
35 mentions
6 % positive mentions
23 % neutral mentions
71 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game has drawn significant criticism, primarily due to the prevalence of in-game advertisements and a heavy reliance on DLCs, many of which are perceived as cash grabs. Players express frustration over the constant prompts to purchase additional content, which detracts from the overall experience, despite acknowledging that some DLCs enhance gameplay. While the game itself is praised, the monetization practices are seen as exploitative and detrimental to player enjoyment.
- “Amazing game, microtransactions are recommended - necessary - but a great game.”
- “Overall, the prices have been quite fair when compared to content delivered through microtransactions within games like Fallout 4.”
- “The amount of DLC is on the level of microtransactions.”
- “Right out of the gate, it's advertising DLC in-game, and to add insult to injury, numerous features are present but locked behind a paywall, cluttering up the interface with locked buttons and prompts to buy more DLC.”
- “Awful ideas followed by bad execution and a horrendous monetization scheme, custom made to trap you into thinking that 'if I buy another DLC, the game might actually get fun!' It never gets fun.”
emotional
33 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
0 % negative mentions
Players report a deeply emotional experience in the game, highlighting the intense connections formed with characters and the dramatic storylines that unfold. The game elicits a wide range of feelings, from joy and attachment to sorrow and guilt, as players navigate complex relationships and moral dilemmas within their virtual dynasties. Overall, it is praised for its ability to create meaningful emotional investment, making players feel both accomplished and heartbroken throughout their journey.
- “I laughed, I cried, I (almost) smashed my mouse in frustration.”
- “This game has made me feel so many mixed emotions it's insane.”
- “Engaging 'grand strategy' that gives you a surprising emotional investment as you shape the destiny of a noble family.”
character development
31 mentions
35 % positive mentions
55 % neutral mentions
10 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is widely praised for its depth and immersion, often described as a defining mechanic that enhances the overall experience. Players appreciate the intricate relationships, political intrigue, and the ability to roleplay within a historical context, making it feel akin to a novelized RPG. The combination of character customization and a robust dynasty system contributes significantly to player engagement and enjoyment, solidifying its status as a standout title in the grand strategy genre.
- “The character development and family progression systems are just legendary.”
- “Few games have offered the depth of character development and role-playing that Crusader Kings II provides, and there are absolutely no rivals in the strategy space.”
- “A full-blown character development and dynasty system gives incredible richness to the world and the player's attachment to character, family, and kingdom.”
- “Medieval strategy game with added complex character development that can save or ruin your game.”
- “For some people there may not be enough action and things may progress slowly, however it makes up for that in its deep character development and politics.”
- “Its hard to explain a strategy game centered around character development without calling it an RPG--which Crusader Kings is not, but you can't help but feel like you're playing a novelized RPG.”
atmosphere
17 mentions
35 % positive mentions
47 % neutral mentions
18 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's atmosphere is highly praised for its immersive and historically accurate representation of the medieval period, with thoughtful aesthetic details that enhance the experience. While some users note issues with specific DLCs that disrupt the atmosphere, the majority appreciate the unique and engaging environment, which offers a refreshing departure from the typical dark and gloomy settings found in many games. However, there are criticisms regarding the lack of depth in representing certain cultures, particularly African nations, which detracts from the overall atmosphere for some players.
- “The atmosphere is spot-on, and everything has been aesthetically thought of, even down to the UI changing depending on culture group, government, or a myriad of other factors.”
- “It truly embodies the whole time period and creates a realistic atmosphere.”
- “Great game, unique atmosphere.”
- “Still has some problems and some DLC is stupid (like Sunset Invasion which I always disable because the freaking Aztecs have no place crossing the Atlantic and hitting in medieval Europe, or the atmosphere-destroying DLC soundtracks like Paradox's own metal band which is also permanently disabled for me) but overall I recommend the game a lot.”
- “The atmosphere is a little too depressing for my taste.”
- “Though I sometimes struggle to expand out of my tiny county in France, the game has a very ambitious and exciting atmosphere, with all sorts of likely scenarios coming face to face with you.”