Crusader Kings III (2020)
Game Description:
Crusader Kings III, released in 2020, is the latest installment in the acclaimed medieval role-playing grand strategy series. Set in a richly detailed world map spanning from Spain to India and Scandinavia to Central Africa, players assume the role of a noble dynasty, navigating the complexities of medieval politics. Expand your realm through strategic marriages, cunning diplomacy, and decisive warfare. Manage your vassals, develop your lands, and secure your legacy across generations. With deep character interactions and dynamic storytelling, every decision shapes the fate of your dynasty. Whether you rule a vast empire or a humble county, your choices will determine your path to power and prestige in this immersive historical experience.
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What Parents Should Know About Crusader Kings III
Age Rating
Release Date
2020
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Crusader Kings III is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Drug Reference, Language, Mild Violence, and Suggestive Themes. This is a strategy game in which players run a domain in medieval Europe, India, and China. Players can expand their territories through conquest, make alliances through marriages, and engage in political schemes (e.g., espionage, blackmail, assassinations). Combat with nations is presented from a top-down view on a map, with military units represented by small soldiers engaging in sword fights. Some menu choices give players the option to assassinate/execute characters (e.g., prisoner, child, political rival), as well as to castrate characters—the violent acts are not depicted. References to suggestive material appear in the text (e.g., “Lustful: Carnal desires burn hot in Konstantinos' core”; “For having tasted the forbidden fruit of incestuous love, he will surely suffer in the next life”; “…[H]e is half-naked and bodily defiling my finest leather shoes…”). Players' character can select a Make Love option with an underage bride, resulting in a pregnancy. During the course of the game, a “Consume Hashish Cakes” option is presented in a menu, leading to a Hashish Stupor status effect. The word “sh*t” appears in the game.
Content Warnings:
Drug Reference, Language, Mild Violence, Suggestive Themes
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Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that Crusader Kings III contains mature themes not suitable for younger kids. The game includes mild profanity, such as the word “sh*t,” and features mild violence depicted through strategic map-based combat. Players can engage in dark themes like assassination, execution, and political intrigue, which are described in text rather than shown graphically. Suggestive content is present, with references to incest and sexual themes, including the option to "Make Love" with an underage bride. Drug references appear through the "Consume Hashish Cakes" option. Many parents recommend this game for teens 13 and older due to its complex themes and mature content.
Why Your Kid Might Like Crusader Kings III
Crusader Kings III, released in 2020, is a hit among teens who enjoy strategy and role-playing games. The game offers a complex and immersive experience, allowing players to dive into the intricacies of medieval politics and dynastic management. Teens appreciate the freedom to shape their own stories, making choices that impact their realm's future. The game's detailed world map and historical setting provide a rich backdrop for strategic planning, whether through alliances, marriages, or warfare. This depth of gameplay keeps players engaged for hours as they work to expand their influence and secure their dynasty's legacy.
Another appealing aspect is the character-driven narrative, where players can interact with a wide array of personalities, each with unique traits and ambitions. This dynamic storytelling allows for endless possibilities and replayability, as no two games are the same. The challenge of managing vassals, developing lands, and navigating complex relationships adds layers of strategy that teens find rewarding. The game's balance of historical accuracy and creative freedom makes it a favorite for those who enjoy both history and gaming. Overall, Crusader Kings III offers a captivating experience that combines strategic depth with engaging storytelling, making it a standout choice for teen gamers.