Crusader Kings II's New Roman Expansion Pack Wasn't Built In A Day [Crusader Kings]

No, it was built over a much longer period of time than that. But hopefully Legacy of Rome will be worth the wait—some of the DLC for the excellent strategy game has been disappointing, and some has been quite good. And let’s not forget that you can also mod CKII into the best Game of Thrones video game on the market.

The folks at Paradox seem to have cottoned to the similarties between their game and the world of George R.R. Martin, seeing as how they describe the expansion thusly:

The second expansion for the critically praised strategy/RPG Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome will focus on the Byzantine Empire – the Greek continuation of the Roman Empire – as well as on the Orthodox Church. Crusader Kings II explores one of the defining periods in world history in an experience crafted by Paradox Development Studio, the masters of Grand Strategy. Medieval Europe is brought to life in this epic game of knights, schemes, and thrones.

Oh, I see what you did there, Paradox. WELL PLAYED.

Here’s what will be added in the expansion, which is slated for a release in “Q4 2012.”

Explore the intricate Faction System: Join a faction to put pressure on your liege, and keep track of factions in your own realm

Raise standing armies: You will now be able to use retinues to have standing armies in your domain: the size is determined by technology

Experience Factional Revolts: No more easily defeated rebellions. Disgruntled vassals will now band together in revolt against your rule through their faction

Appoint Orthodox patriarchs: Orthodox kingdoms and empires can now control their own heads of religion and their powers, instead of being dependent on the patriarch of Constantinople

Streamlined mobilization: You will always raise a single, larger levy from your direct vassals; no need to worry about the opinions of the lower vassals

Leader Focus on Combat: Appoint your generals wisely, their traits& skills are now of vital importance on the field of battle. More commander traits are now added to increase the importance of your choice of military leaders

Explore Byzantine Events &Decisions: Legacy of Rome includes many specific events & decisions to make the Byzantine Empire come alive

Improve your ruler: You can now actively strive to improve your skills or traits through the new Self Improvement Ambitions

But will there be bathhouses and pornographic graffiti? Time will tell. Here, dig some more images: