Spanning the most turbulent era in Western history, your quest for territory and power takes you through Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and even onto the shores of the New World.
Players take control of one of several factions, ranging from European powers to Middle Eastern sultanates, and navigate an expansive campaign map inspired by medieval history. Balancing military conquest, economic development, diplomacy, religion, and internal politics is crucial to building a powerful empire. Carefully investing in city improvements, recruiting diverse armies, and deploying cunning agents like diplomats and spies allows players to outmaneuver rival factions vying for control of key territories and trade routes.
The game's real-time battles immerse players in the clash of medieval warfare. Commanding infantry, cavalry, and siege weapons, players must tactically position their forces, protect vulnerable units, and exploit openings in the enemy's lines to achieve victory. Cavalry charges, deadly archer barrages, and the thunderous melee of thousands of soldiers create visceral, cinematic confrontations that reward tactical mastery of the game's combat mechanics.
Each playable faction possesses a unique cultural identity, roster of specialized units, and strategic strengths and weaknesses, encouraging players to adopt diverse approaches. The in-depth character system further enriches the campaign experience, as generals, agents, and other important figures develop unique traits, influence the faction's direction, and become the focus of internal dynastic politics.
The game's extensive mod support has fostered a vibrant community that continues to expand and transform the experience years after its initial release. From major overhaul mods that dramatically alter the setting and systems to smaller tweaks and additions, the wealth of community-created content ensures that players can customize the game to their preferences, dramatically increasing its longevity and replayability.