Paradox shows off Crusader Kings 3: All Under Heaven’s world map and it’s glorious

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At present, enthusiasts of grand strategy games have lots to look forward to, as Paradox Interactive is currently working on Europa Universalis 5 and the expansive All Under Heaven DLC for Crusader Kings 3. Notably, the studio recently released their first developer diary about this extensive expansion, offering a sneak peek at the vast world map it will showcase.

In this game setting, players have the freedom to select a ruler from any location spanning Europe’s western coastline all the way to Japan’s eastern coastlines. This expansive region encompassing Eurasia thus transforms into an enormous play area filled with opportunities for intrigue and conflict.

As a dedicated enthusiast, it’s undeniable that China stands at the epicenter of this grand expansion, mirroring the immense influence Rome held over the Western world for centuries. To encapsulate its significance, and to reflect its unparalleled power during that era, Paradox will introduce Hegemony as a new tier of title in the game.

Apart from China, there are two other possibilities for a power bloc to emerge: either by re-unifying Rome or by uniting India. These are the only two potential contenders capable of challenging the dominance of the Middle Kingdom.

China’s Celestial Rule system, as presented in the Roads to Power DLC, is inspired by the Administrative Government of Byzantium, featuring structures such as house leaders and regional governors. However, unlike Byzantium’s Influence system, the Celestial Government operates on Merit. Characters gain Merit through their service and competence, which doesn’t function as a spendable currency but rather accumulates over their lifetime, qualifying them for increasingly prominent roles. Influence remains in the Celestial Government, where it can still be utilized for intrigues. Additionally, characters can earn Merit by engaging in the novel Examination Activities.

In this celestial system, governors manage finances uniquely. They deposit revenues from their territories into the Imperial Bank, which then distributes salaries to them and allots a specified amount of funds to their provinces. This way, money in the Imperial Bank serves for investments in provinces or troops, while the Gold represents personal expenditures.

As a gamer immersed in this historical simulator, I’ll be part of the Dynastic Cycle, reflecting China’s ebb and flow of ruling dynasties across its rich history. During stable periods, I can channel my energies into expansion or technological advancements, boosting Legitimacy when I accomplish my selected objectives. However, even the mightiest dynasty faces decline, leading to unstable eras. Unexpected events like natural disasters and wars can swiftly deplete Legitimacy, causing governors to grow restless. If Legitimacy plummets excessively, it could trigger a chaotic era and civil unrest.

Individuals seeking a testing ground could begin with the Tang Dynasty in 867, as they were deeply immersed in a turbulent and unsteady period.

As a gamer, I’d put it like this: “For me, as a player, there are exclusive choices for Chinese Tributary states. These allow my tributary nations to strengthen their bonds with the empire and enjoy special perks.

In Japan, its unique political structure is depicted through distinct mechanisms. The leaders in the nation can assume roles that lean towards Administrative (Ritsuryō) or Feudal (Soryō) styles. The historical bonds between Japanese houses extend over long periods, fostering either strong alliances or deep-seated feuds. These houses may band together into factions within the country to engage in conflicts arising from these rivalries.

During the era of Crusader Kings 3, Japanese emperors are predominantly figureheads, while the real power is held by either the Kampaku (Ritsuryō) or Shogun (Soryō). These leaders manage Imperial Policy and have the authority to enact laws across the entire nation. However, players can still begin their game as the emperor and potentially work towards altering the balance of power.

In simpler terms, both types of leaders will gain extra possibilities to expand their personal properties (estates) and may improve the social status of their families using Family Goals or Aspirations.

Initially in Southeast Asia, the Mandala Government will hold dominance. This form of government carries a heavy religious influence and is based on tributary states. The players will have an opportunity to establish their own cults centered around their leaders, and they can enhance their capital temples using the innovative Great Project feature, which enables rulers to combine resources for construction projects such as the Great Wall or aid in rebuilding a region after a natural calamity.

Ultimately, Paradox unveiled that the Silk Road would appear on the game’s map, but trading activities won’t be incorporated into the game itself. Nonetheless, owning sections of the Silk Road will bring economic advantages and it facilitates Chinese inventions to traverse west more swiftly.

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2025-05-27 16:16