Paradox Interactive announced a new expansion for Crusader Kings 3 that overhauls the game's economy. The Silk and Silver expansion introduces trade and merchant republics, offering a fresh playstyle focused on internal politics and commerce rather than conquest.
Trade Posts and Patrician Families
The expansion adds republics as small city-states with their own internal politics and patrician families. Players can build Trade Posts to expand influence into other counties. A key goal is forming trade confederations like the Hanseatic League.
Silk and Silver also introduces a mercenary cap to prevent players from winning wars purely with money. The mercenary cap is intended to balance military power and make economic decisions more meaningful.
Mercenary Cap and Release Details
The expansion launches in the fourth quarter of 2026. It is included in the Chapter 5 bundle, priced at 43.99 USD (about $43.99) in the US and 36.99 GBP (about $49.49) in the UK.
Paradox Interactive said they wanted families to matter and to both squabble and plot together. The republic playstyle was designed for players who prefer internal politicking, scheming, changing laws, and trade over building a huge realm.
Silk and Silver is confirmed for a Q4 2026 release as part of the Chapter 5 bundle. The expansion reworks the economy with trade and merchant republics, adding new strategic depth to Crusader Kings 3.
Source: PCGAMESN