Grand strategy is finally personal.

Paradox has crafted an enduring and constantly surprising simulation of medieval power. There's a very lengthy learning curve here--aided along with an investment in some YouTube viewing--but the depth of choices here make it worthwhile. I've taken a tribe on the Isle of Man and steered it to a glorious future as a trade empire spanning the British Isles and beyond. My mother murdered me so that my brother could rule a more unified Francia. My sixteen daughters all shared in my adoration for them, but the Kingdom of Jerusalem might have benefited from a male heir--scratch that: Empress Emilia held the holy land against all odds and set the framework for further advancements into the Levant by her decedents. The Mongol Horde stamped out all signs of the cross and the crescent while under my command.

Hilarious failures and lasting victories are both encouragement in Crusader Kings II. The game's driving engine is the act of imagining a goal and using various tools to attempt to achieve it, while the fates laugh. The map, spreadsheets, and role playing choices become familiar with extended play. Your love of absurdity, history, and vengeance are all rewarded here.

And no matter how often your spouse begs you to become your court spymaster, don't let 'em.