Crusader Kings II (CK2) is one of the most complex and rewarding grand strategy games ever made, blending medieval politics, warfare, and dynasty management into a deep, immersive experience. But with its steep learning curve, new players often find themselves overwhelmed by the game’s intricate mechanics—from succession laws to vassal management and secret cults. That’s where Benjamin Pearce’s CK2 guides come in. Whether you’re a beginner struggling to keep your realm intact or a veteran looking to master advanced strategies, Pearce’s detailed tutorials break down the game’s systems in an accessible yet comprehensive way. This article explores his most essential guides, helping you go from a struggling count to a mighty emperor.
1. “Starting Strong: Picking the Right Ruler for Your Playstyle”
One of the first hurdles in Crusader Kings II is choosing a ruler. With hundreds of historical and fictional characters across different regions, the decision can be paralyzing. Benjamin Pearce’s guide emphasizes that your starting position dramatically shapes your early game experience. A small Irish count offers a slow, controlled introduction to feudal mechanics, while a Viking warlord provides an aggressive, raid-heavy playstyle. Meanwhile, a Byzantine vassal thrusts you into the heart of imperial politics, where diplomacy is just as important as warfare. Pearce explains the pros and cons of each starting scenario, helping players align their choice with their preferred playstyle—whether that’s tall kingdom-building, rapid expansion, or intricate dynastic scheming.
2. “Managing Succession: How to Avoid Losing Your Hard-Earned Lands”
Few things are more frustrating than watching your carefully crafted realm fracture because of poor inheritance planning. CK2’s succession laws can be brutal, especially for new players who don’t understand gavelkind or elective monarchy. Pearce’s guide dives deep into primogeniture, ultimogeniture, and elective succession, explaining how to manipulate laws in your favor. He also covers emergency tactics, such as disinheriting sons through forced monastic vows or strategically marrying older heirs to reduce the number of claimants. The guide even touches on more ruthless strategies—like imprisoning or assassinating troublesome children—to ensure your best heir inherits everything.
3. “Warfare 101: How to Win Battles Without Losing Your Entire Army”
War is inevitable in CK2, but blindly throwing levies at your enemies is a surefire way to fail. Pearce’s warfare guide breaks down composition, terrain, commanders, and tactics to maximize efficiency. He explains why heavy infantry and cavalry dominate in certain regions, while light troops and archers are better in others. The guide also covers flanking strategies, morale management, and how to bait enemies into unfavorable terrain (like mountains or rivers). Additionally, Pearce emphasizes the importance of alliances and mercenaries—because sometimes, the best way to win a war is to let someone else fight it for you.
4. “The Art of Vassal Management: Keeping Your Lords Happy (or at Least Not Rebellious)”
A stable realm isn’t just about winning wars—it’s about keeping your vassals from stabbing you in the back. Pearce’s vassal management guide explores opinion modifiers, factions, and council politics, teaching players how to balance power between ambitious dukes and loyal supporters. He explains why granting viceroyalties, strategic marriages, and honorary titles can keep vassals in check—and why imprisoning troublemakers or revoking titles is sometimes necessary. The guide also covers realm decentralization vs. centralization, helping players decide whether to empower their council or rule as an absolute monarch.
5. “Playing the Long Game: Dynasty Building and Eugenics”
The true endgame of CK2 isn’t just conquering land—it’s creating a legendary bloodline. Pearce’s dynasty guide covers eugenics, education, and strategic marriages, showing how to breed genius, strong, or attractive heirs. He explains how to use the “bloodline” mechanic, including founding warrior lodges or secret societies to enhance your lineage. The guide also discusses long-term diplomatic strategies, such as placing relatives on foreign thrones or infiltrating rival dynasties through seduction and assassination.
6. “Advanced Tactics: Secret Cults, Satanism, and Borderline Cheesing the Game”
Once players master the basics, Pearce’s advanced guides introduce esoteric and exploitative strategies. Want to form a secret cult and convert your entire realm to a heresy? There’s a guide for that. Interested in Satanic immortality or turning your ruler into an unstoppable killing machine? Pearce explains how. He even covers gamey tactics, like abusing tribal retinues or using merchant republics to generate infinite wealth. These guides are perfect for players who want to bend—or break—CK2’s mechanics in their favor.
Conclusion: From Count to Emperor with Benjamin Pearce’s Guides
Crusader Kings II is a game of endless possibilities, but without the right knowledge, players can easily flounder. Benjamin Pearce’s guides provide clear, step-by-step breakdowns of the game’s most complex systems, making them invaluable for both newcomers and experienced rulers. Whether you’re trying to survive your first succession crisis, dominate the battlefield, or create an incestuous dynasty of superhumans, his tutorials offer the tools to succeed. Now, go forth—your empire awaits.
