how to get casus belli ck3

Daniel Parker

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05-02-2025

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Crusader Kings 3 (CK3) is a grand strategy game where warfare is a central mechanic. But before you can declare war and expand your realm, you need a casus belli (CB), a justifiable reason for war. This article will guide you through the various ways to obtain a casus belli in CK3. Understanding how to acquire these is crucial for successful gameplay.

Understanding Casus Belli in CK3

A casus belli is essentially your legal justification for invading another character. Without one, your war will be considered an unjust aggression, leading to severe penalties like massive opinion maluses with other rulers and possibly a powerful coalition against you. Let's explore the different types.

Claim-Based Casus Belli

This is the most common and straightforward way to wage war. Claims are titles you can press against another ruler, giving you a valid reason to attack and seize their land. There are several types of claims:

• Strong Claims: These are the most powerful. They give you a significant advantage in war and are often the most desirable. You can get these through inheritance, intrigue schemes (like Fabricate Claim), or by completing certain events.

• Weak Claims: These provide a weaker justification and are harder to win. They are still better than no claim at all.

• Fabricated Claims: These claims are generated through intrigue schemes. This makes it possible to declare war on almost anyone, assuming you have the necessary intrigue skills and court intrigue level. It's risky, though, and it will lower your opinion with other rulers.

How to Get Claims:

• Inheritance: Inheriting a title often comes with claims to other related titles.

• Intrigue: Schemes like "Fabricate Claim" allow you to generate a claim on a target's title. This requires high intrigue skills and a bit of luck.

• Events: Certain events can award you claims or other advantages.

• Marriage: A strategic marriage can give you claims through family ties.

Non-Claim Based Casus Belli

Certain situations allow you to declare war even without a claim. These are usually more situational and riskier.

• Holy Wars: If you're a high-ranking member of a religion, you might be able to launch a holy war to expand your faith's territory. This usually requires a large amount of piety and careful planning.

• Great Holy Wars: These are even more ambitious holy wars, typically fought for a major religious center. They are highly challenging but offer significant rewards.

• Conquest CB: This less common CB lets you invade a weakened kingdom that is in a civil war.

• Revenge: After being attacked unjustly, you might obtain the "revenge" CB against your aggressor.

Improving Your Chances of Getting a Casus Belli

Several factors influence your ability to get a CB:

• Intrigue: A high intrigue skill significantly improves your chances of fabricating claims.

• Diplomacy: Strong diplomatic relations can lead to alliances, marriages, or inherited claims.

• Military Strength: A strong army increases your chances of successfully pressing your claims in war.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of War in CK3

Securing a casus belli in CK3 is paramount to expansion and success. By understanding the different types of CBs and improving your skills in intrigue, diplomacy, and warfare, you'll be well-equipped to conquer your enemies and build a powerful kingdom. Remember to always consider the risks and rewards before initiating a war; a well-planned campaign is crucial for victory. Good luck, and may your reign be long and prosperous!