Tributaries to be Introduced in Crusader Kings III with Khans of the Steppe

The upcoming expansion for Crusader Kings III brings the Khans of the Steppe to the game. This is going to be the core expansion that's releasing this year. One of the new features to be introduced are the Tributaries.

You see when it comes to nomads, they don't have something like a tiered system of formal vassalage and even pledges of fealty. Instead, in the steppes it is all about who has the greatest capacity when it comes to destruction. As a result, neighbors paid what's known as tributes in exchange for not being trampled on.

Paradox Interactive revealed that since Tributaries are similar to vassals in some cases, it can lead to what could be an unequal diplomatic relationship in the game. Because of this, the studio is introducing a term known as "subjects" which can either be vassals or tributaries. Tributary contracts in particular function like vassal contracts in that they have different degrees of obligations.

Types of Tributaries

There are different types of Tributaries and the one that players are sure to encounter frequently are known as Nomadic Tributaries. These are nomadic realms, or possibly spineless herders, who have pledged tribute to a stronger nomadic ruler on their border. They pay a part of their herd in tribute on a regular basis with some of the prestige they gain also being conferred upon their suzerain.

Then there are Settled Tributaries that are focused on non-nomadic realms. These include the likes of feudal princes, tribes, or clans, who have yielded to a bordering nomadic ruler. Similar to Nomadic Tributaries, they also pay tribute on a regular basis. However, instead of a herd they instead provide gold and levies.

There's also another type which is a subjugated tributary. Unlike the previous two mentioned, this one does not have any direct relation to nomads. How it works is that this tributary type is obliged to pay a lot of gold along with a small amount of prestige to their suzerain. In return, they get protection from their suzerain against outside invasion. Indeed, if they're attacked, the subjugated tributary can call their suzerain in to defend them. Should the suzerain refuse their responsibility then the tributary obligations are annulled. Any non-nomadic realm can create this type of tributary through the Bring Under Tribute casus belli.

What do you think about this new feature? Learn more about Tributaries here. Read more about the Khans of the Steppe here.

Crusader Kings III invites players to experience the drama and intrigue of the Middle Ages. In a saga that defies time, players need to strategically master a lot of skills that include diplomacy, warfare, and cunning politics, all to secure their dynasty’s place in history.

The opportunities in Crusader Kings III are indeed endless, especially with the wide range of dynamic events and life-altering decisions that’s customized to each character and situation. Get the game on Steam now.