While the hype machine currently spins wildly around Total War: Warhammer 40,000, Creative Assembly is wisely looking back at another cornerstone of the Total War franchise: Medieval 3.
Though Medieval 3 is further along in development, the developers have been surprisingly open with the community about its progress, regularly sharing preproduction livestreams. This transparency allows fans to participate directly in shaping the medieval landscape, including a recent survey asking players which nations and dynasties they want to control.
Creative Assembly approaches game design through a fascinating lens, asking not just what history they want to tell, but what mechanics will make it unique. Creative Director Leif Walter explains that when deciding which factions make the cut, three key factors come into play: how well-known the faction is, how unique its starting situation is, and how distinctive its potential mechanics could be.
Naturally, some historical giants are considered “locked in,” including England, France, the Holy Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Kingdom of Jerusalem, and the Sultanate of Rum. The real fun, however, lies in exploring the smaller factions of the Middle Ages—the ones with untold strategic potential. This is where the community input truly shines, focusing on nations like Italian city-states such as Venice or Milan, Kingdoms of Scandinavia, or Muslim nations like the Almohad Caliphate and the Fatimid Empire.
Not all possibilities make the final cut. For example, factions like the Russian Principalities, the Mongol Empire, and the Papal States were considered but ultimately ruled out. Walter noted that while the Papal States were highly desired by Total War fans, the unique playstyle they would introduce would have reduced the focus needed for development.
For those of us looking to dive into medieval warfare, certain concepts stand out. The intricate clan system developed during the medieval period offers an appealing challenge. Exploring a faction like Scotland, for instance, promises wonderfully distinct mechanics centered on managing emerging clans, preventing infighting, and dealing with larger threats—a genuinely engaging strategic hurdle.
Whether it’s mastering feudal politics or navigating the grim reality of the 41st millennium, Creative Assembly continues to demonstrate a commitment to creating deep, unique, and highly replayable strategy experiences. We eagerly await what the future holds for these ambitious worlds.
Buy on Amazon
Credit: PC Gamer
