14 DAY TRIAL // It’s a shame that my ruler can’t spend more time in the university. Vladislav was very stressed by the many challenges he faced as Holy Roman Emperor. But a bit of clean socializing with other students allowed him to leave aside his duties for a while. The regent might be gaining power while the Emperor is away but it will be some time before this becomes a potential problem.
The road to Canterbury wasn’t very long, with an experienced set of bodyguards and a cultural ambassador for company. It was also eventful, although none of the encounters were as interesting as those linked to learning activities. My character got some books, convinced some learned people to join the court, improved his own skills, and made a rival. Not bad for an investment of less than 900 gold. I very much like to spend on education rather than organize another tournament or feast.
I would love to be able to also send one of my sons to get an equivalent education at university. I understand that limits exist for the sake of gameplay balance. But I might seek out a mod that allows one ruler to visit all learning centers in the world during one lifetime.
Wards & Wardens for Crusader Kings III is developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. This downloadable content pack focused on adding more events, centered on the education of both children and adults.
The DLC doesn’t add a major new mechanic but makes extensive use of the new travel system from Tours & Tournaments. The investment for a visit to a center of learning is significant but very much worth it. When possible, players should prioritize it over other social activities.
More than 100 events and event chains are featured in the DLC. Many give gamers extra control over the way their kids are educated, which is important for the ruler who wants a strong dynasty. Get a wet nurse to increase the range and frequency.
Kids can also be exchanged as hostages, but the concept feels a little underused. I hope future DLC and mods enhance the possibility space for them. Adoption is also pretty limited but offers players a new way to avoid a game over if other efforts fail.
At its core, Crusader Kings III remains a very open grand strategy game set during the Medieval world. Pick a major kingdom to have a relatively easy time, although crises that lead to loss of titles and fragmentation are always possible. Play as a duke with limited holdings for a challenge.
The new events will add to the game regardless of who the player picks and where he focuses his attention. The game is also more immersive and interesting if role-playing is the main focus, rather than classic strategy game min-maxing.
Wards & Wardens isn’t designed to enhance the graphics of the core game. Crusader Kings III is still a bright, good-looking experience, although the interface is buckling a little under the weight of all the detail it is offering. There’s a lot of new art for the new university and child-focused interactions. The game’s soundtrack also continues to impress.
Conclusion
Don’t pick up the package if you haven’t yet fully explored the many additions of Tours & Tournaments or if you are a newcomer to this Medieval grand strategy experience. But for dedicated fans, especially those looking for more role-playing options, Wards & Wardens is a solid Yay.
Key provided by the developer.
