More of an addition to the Europa Universals series, you are given three new Single Player Scenarios and an engaging Multiplayer mode. Historical buffs and History Channel watchers will salivate over the three storylines, which you take hold. One storyline puts you in Hastings 1066; William 1 conquered the British Isles and lays the framework for a future Dynasty. The scenario starts with William 1 deemed King of Britain. You may choose the next scenario entitled The Third Crusade 1187; in this scenario Saladin, King of Babylon and the Turks re-took Jerusalem from the Christian invaders. Lastly, you have the every popular Hundred Years War 1337; this defining time in history for Europe and France started when King Philip VI of France attempted to confiscate the English territories in the Duchy of Aquitaine. The level of difficulty for each event can be selected before entering. You may choose from the game difficulty, AI aggressiveness, game speed, and Fog of War (allows beginners to see opponent’s moves).

Everything in Crusader Kings is set up in menus, windows, and maps, which are easily readable and navigated. In these windows is where you point and click your way and manage your Dynasty. With many options to choose from, the game’s replay value is only limited to the 750 or so real time years you can play. In these years though, expect to Mobilize armies, Offer Marriage, Grant Titles, Pledge Allegiance, Send Assassins, Declare War, Sue for Peace, Excommunicate, and much more. You not only have control over your actions, but you choose the actions of your court, your treasury, your realm, the laws, and so much more. You also have to deal with your countries poverty, quibbles, and diseases that arise through the sands of time. Did I forget to mention the heat of battle? When war has been declared you must ensure that you maneuver your men correctly, siege bits of land, and conquer the ruler and his men. Battles are long and require much thought and forethought to succeed. Playing King is almost as painstaking as being King. The true depth, hardships, and realism are here in real time.

It would have been nice to see this series evolve into a 3D realm, much like the upcoming Rome: Total War, as today’s gamer likes a bit more fluff in their viewing experience. However, alas, the game is not much more than windows, maps, and menus. The musical score is done very well and is fitting to each situation. Game play is not much more than a mere point and click adventure, but it is your brain that will serves as the game’s biggest asset.

The basic premise is to survive through history, and make as many positive changes to ensure your countries success in the future. How this evolves is up to you, as there is no one way to play. Granted, in war, there really are no winners, so it is in your best interest not to be added to the list of the countless losers. Fans of the Europa series may not want to pass this title up, as it will grant countless hours of game play to your already full life.