Crusader Kings 3 has recently expanded its horizons with the release of the highly anticipated expansion, All Under Heaven. This addition has been met with a generally positive reception, introducing players to the rich cultures of China, Japan, and Southeast Asia within the beloved medieval simulation. While the expansion launched with ‘mostly positive’ reviews on Steam, it slightly trails behind the acclaim garnered by the base game, a testament to the high expectations set by one of the genre’s finest. Nevertheless, developer Paradox is not resting on its achievements; they are actively implementing a series of hotfixes, balance patches, and planning a significant update to enhance the gaming experience further.
Family Dynamics and Gameplay Enhancements
In All Under Heaven, the complexities of family life remain a central theme, echoing the trials and tribulations players have come to expect. To address the often troublesome nature of familial relations, Paradox is introducing a new feature that allows players to “Command Family to take Exams.” This decision empowers players to ensure their relatives acquire the necessary qualifications, adding a strategic layer to managing one’s dynasty.
The recent minor update, version 1.18.0.2, brings notable enhancements to the Celestial Government in China. Among these changes, the removal of maintenance penalties affecting Men-at-Arms (MaA) and armies aims to bolster bankruptcy resistance during revolts. Additionally, the Chinese Emperor gains greater flexibility with the Consolidation casus belli, allowing for more strategic maneuvering across various de jure empires, regardless of the historical era. Players will also have the option to reject tributary missions, opening the door to more aggressive wartime strategies.
Beyond these updates, the patch addresses improvements in databases, localization, and various bug fixes. Looking ahead, update 1.18.1 promises extensive visual enhancements for Southeast Asia and is expected to roll out “sometime next week.” Following closely, update 1.18.2 is slated for release towards the end of November.
For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of the new patches, the full developer diary offers a comprehensive overview of the numerous bug fixes and tweaks. If you’re contemplating whether All Under Heaven aligns with your gaming preferences, our Crusader Kings 3 DLC guide can provide valuable insights. Alternatively, for players who enjoy a more hands-on approach, our curated list of the best Crusader Kings 3 mods presents a wealth of options, including fun additions and solutions to some of the game’s most pressing issues.
