The Caliph faces the Anarchy at Samarra, dealing with powerful, disloyal vassals and low internal control.
This region is built for aggressive expansion via the mechanic. You can amass immense wealth and prestige by sacking wealthier feudal lands to the south before eventually choosing to reform your pagan faith or convert to Christianity. 4. The Mediterranean and the Middle East: Clash of Empires
Independent powers like the Saffarids in Persia and the Tulunids in Egypt are rising, eager to strip land away from the Caliph.
The Norse sons of Ragnar Lodbrok start with thousands of "special soldiers" (doomstacks) that do not replenish. Halfdan Whiteshirt controls the Kingdom of Jorvik (Yorkshire), while Ivar the Boneless rules the Isles and is actively invading East Anglia. The Anglo-Saxon Holdouts
The Byzantine Empire under Emperor Basileios I is the strongest single realm on the map. However, it faces constant threats from the Bulgarian Empire to the north and Arab raids from the south. It is the premier destination for players who enjoy managing complex vassal politics, court intrigue, and imperial bureaucracy. Best Starting Rulers in 867 For Beginners: Murchad mac Diarmait (Mumu, Ireland) Southwest Ireland Government/Religion: Tribal / Insular Christian
If you want to experience the tribal mechanics of CK3, the northern and eastern portions of the 867 map are unmatched. Scandinavia: The Cradle of Raiding Scandinavia is entirely tribal and Asatru pagan.
Zoroastrianism, while on its last legs historically, can still be found in Persia in 867. After this date, finding landed Zoroastrian characters becomes significantly harder. Similarly, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism dominate the Indian subcontinent, untouched by the events of the west.
This guide provides a comprehensive look at the geographic and political realities of the 867 map. We will break down the key regions, contrast it with the later start date, and uncover the strategies needed to thrive in a world where feudalism is young, and tribal warfare is the rule of law.
It is important to note that Norman , Hungarian , and Sicilian cultures are not present on the map at the start of 867.
The 867 AD start date in Crusader Kings 3 (CK3)—known as "The Wrath of the Northmen"—presents a chaotic, fragmented, and highly dynamic world. Unlike the more stable 1066 start, the 867 map is defined by the collapse of old empires, the rise of pagan raiders, and vast swaths of tribal lands waiting to be conquered.
What do you prefer? (e.g., raiding, playing "tall" and building wealth, or massive conquering)
The precursor to modern France.
The British Isles are the focal point of the 867 start date. The Great Heathen Army has landed, completely upending the Anglo-Saxon heptarchy.
Mercenary & Viking Company System
The Abbasid blob looks scary, but it explodes within 20 years. If you play as a duke in Persia, you can become the "Sword of Islam" and usurp the Caliphate easily.