The thing about coronations is they’re meant to be a big, public moment. Paradox has noticed that too: Crusader Kings 3 will get Coronations, a small event pack that adds ceremonies, oaths, and chances for courtly skulduggery. It will release on September 9 and costs $5 (£4.29).
Monarchs have always liked to show off the crown and the ceremony, and it’s a bit odd that CK3 never made coronations feel like an occasion. Up until now, your ruler died, you inherited the throne, and your new vassals mostly just hated you straight away. Coronations aim to give those first days of a reign a bit more ritual and consequence.
This won’t be a massive expansion that changes core systems. It’s an event pack in Paradox’s DLC scheme, more like Wandering Nobles or Wards and Wardens than Roads to Power or Royal Court. That means new events and small mechanics designed to add flavour rather than rebuild anything.
Before you stage your big day you’ll pick an intent for the proceedings – you can Impress Attendees or choose a darker route like Weaken Detractors. There should be room for plotting while the nobles are busy applauding, and you can use the ceremony as cover if you like conspiracies.
Oh, you’ll also get a chance to make an oath at your coronation: a grand promise to win favour and give yourself hooks for later decisions. These oaths can be about alliances, expansion, hunting glory, or taking on charity work that your aristocrats will probably ignore.
If you’re a vassal, you’ll be able to visit a lord’s coronation on the Coronations Steam page, and maybe cause a polite mess of the whole affair. Who wouldn’t enjoy a bit of dramatic treachery?
Coronations will release on September 9, for $5 (£4.29).
Tell me what you think in the comments below, did Paradox pick the right moment to dress up succession?
