Crusader Kings II Expands with the Legacy of Rome

Crusader Kings II has been hailed as one of the most detailed historical strategy games to date. The game's developers at Paradox have announced today that the depth of the game will be expanded even further with the upcoming release of an expansion titled Legacy of Rome.

Players will be in control of the Byzantine Empire, the last vestige of the ancient empire of Rome.

The expansion is said to offer a 'wealth' of new features, including the ability to appoint your own Orthodox patriarch to rule over your religion instead of depending upon the game to do it for you. You'll also have greater control over your vassals, and indulge in new Byzantine-specific events and decisions throughout history. The expansion will also see the addition of Self-Improvement ambitions for your regent, so you'll have more ways than ever to shape your rule over the empire.

Here's the feature list:

New Faction System: Join a royal faction and use your allies in the party to enhance your strength and tear down rivals

Raise Standing Armies: You will now be able to use retinues to have standing armies in your domain: the size of which 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 vassal; no need to worry about the opinions of the lower vassals

Leader Focus on Combat: Appoint your generals wisely, their traits and 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

Byzantium Comes Alive: New sets of decisions and events specifically designed with the Byzantine Empire in mind

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

Crusader Kings II: Legacy of Rome will be out for the PC and Mac in Q4 2012.