Background

The Duck of Death

Nations augment this sort of interaction in the same fashion. The struggles between Sweden, Norway, and Denmark between 1275 and 1340 are perfectly realized, as the factions have varying strengths and alliances that contrast and complement one another. King Erik Menved of Denmark begins in the strongest situation, with a strong army situated in the perfect geographic location. Enemy provinces nearby are rich and ripe for the picking. Norwegian King Haakon V may be slightly out of the loop in Trondheim, but his hilly, forested provinces are stable and easily fortified. In Sweden, King Birger sits uneasily on the throne due to a brewing civil war prompted by his younger brothers, Erik and Valdemar. Overall, you’ll have it easiest playing the Danes, experience slightly more difficulty as the Norwegians, and endure real hardships siding with the Swedes.

Map borders get fanciful

Giants visit Scandinavia

Welcome to Medieval Times!

You can also forego the rulers entirely and sign up with one of the rebel forces. The Swedish duchies home to Erik and Valdemar are available, as is the small territory controlled by Marshall Stig Andersson, a Danish nobleman recently fled to Norway after assassinating King Erik Klipping. These three groups add a lot of color to play, serving as wild cards that can change the course of any game. While none of them is equal to the royal factions, their assistance can turn a strong enemy into an unstoppable foe. This cranks up the importance of alliances to a level not seen even in Europa Universalis games, which were heavy on politics to begin with.