Crusader Kings II is a grand strategy game created by Paradox Interactive and published through Paradox Development Studios. In the original game, you would take the role of a rule from baron to emperor in 1066 and play through 1453. Through various expansions, you can now play as early as 769.
The appeal of the game for me is managing a dynasty throughout the centuries. When rulers die there are often power voids that must be filled. A peaceful and successful elder ruler may hand a realm in turmoil to his son (or rarely a daughter), who must then fight to reunite the lands. It’s possible, though difficult, to play through the game with a minimum of offensive wars.
CK II is a character-driven game. The focus on improving the character, rather than just the realm, provides an interesting alternative to the typical 4X or grand strategy game. Especially with the release of the DLC Way of Life, this has manifested in many different events and decisions available to characters based on their ambitions and focuses.
Crusader Kings II is available for Windows, MacOSX and Linux systems. You can get the game on Steam or at the Crusader Kings Web site.
A previous campaign featured a nomadic Magyar start of the Tengri faith and Jenö clan.