Crusader Kings 3 offers a complex yet engaging way to experience the medieval world, where you aren't just a silent observer but an active participant in shaping your dynasty's future. One of the significant aspects of this strategy game is the use of Men-at-Arms, professional soldiers that form the backbone of your military. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to create and effectively use Men-at-Arms in the game.
Step 1: Understand Men-at-Arms
In Crusader Kings 3, Men-at-Arms represent the professional, trained soldiers in your military force, as opposed to the levied peasants. They play an essential role in your military strategy, acting as the tip of your spear when it comes to fighting wars.
Step 2: Accessing the Military Menu
To create a new regiment of Men-at-Arms, go to the Military Menu. You can find this on the right side of your screen, represented by a red shield and a pair of crossed swords icons.
Step 3: Creating a Men-at-Arms Regiment
Below your realm levies and knights icons, you'll find a list of Men-at-Arms units you currently control. Just below this list, you'll find the "Create Men-at-Arms" button. Clicking on this will open a new menu showcasing all available types of regiments you can create.
Step 4: Select the Regiment Type
Each type of Men-at-Arms regiment costs Gold or Prestige to create, expand, and maintain. You can check the cost and details of each regiment type, as well as their respective advantages, to make an informed decision.
Step 5: Managing Regiment Size
Once you've created a regiment, you can adjust its size by clicking on the particular regiment's image. The increase or decrease in size affects the overall cost of your military force. Remember, increasing the size enhances the upfront and maintenance costs. Reducing the size, on the other hand, doesn’t refund the input costs, but it does decrease the maintenance cost.
Step 6: Utilizing Terrain Advantage
Every type of Men-at-Arms regiment performs differently on various terrains. Keeping an eye on this can give your forces an advantage during battles. Therefore, it's crucial to gain knowledge about which regiments perform best on what types of terrains.
Step 7: Understanding Your Limit
The number of Men-at-Arms regiments a ruler can maintain depends on multiple factors like the ruler's rank, era innovation, and dynasty legacy. A Count can have 2, a Duke 3, a King 4, and an Emperor can have 5 regiments.
Step 8: Using Men-at-Arms Effectively
A well-strategized combination of different types of regiments can turn the tide of a battle. Depending on the situation, diversify your Men-at-Arms regiments, or focus your resources on specific ones to counter your enemies.
Crusader Kings 3 offers a strategic depth that engages the players on multiple levels. Creating and using Men-at-Arms effectively is an integral part of the game, demanding careful consideration and strategic decision-making. Following this guide will help you master the art of building a formidable army, leading to glorious victories and a thriving realm.