Stronghold Crusader Info from http://stronghold.godgames.com/crusader/ Conquer the heathen ... repel the infidel! Journey to distant lands renowned for brave warriors and fearsome weaponry in FireFly Studios' STRONGHOLD CRUSADER. This highly anticipated successor to the best- selling Stronghold combines the finest aspects from a City Builder and a Real-Time Strategy game. Lead a determined group of crusaders, forged by centuries of barbaric conflicts, or wage war against a powerful foreign invader amidst the haze of the desert heat. Within impenetrable walls beats the heart of a thriving society full of Fletchers, Brewers, and Armourers, while outside stalk enemy Assassins, mighty War Engines, and the constant threat of fire! As European nobles or Arabian warriors, conquer this unforgiving wasteland, defend desert fortresses, and lay siege to fearless enemies during the legendary Crusades of the 11th and 12th centuries! Story 1187 Saladin, leader of the vast Arabian armies, has retaken the city of Jerusalem from the European invaders that have occupied it for most of the last century. Much of the rest of the Middle East also falls to Saladin in a sweeping military triumph that wipes out the European victories of the First and Second Crusades. Saladin proclaims western rule of the region at an end. 1189 The recently crowned King Richard I reorganizes the European armies and embarks on a Third Crusade to halt Saladin's advance and retake lost territory. The fierce bravery displayed by the outnumbered and outgunned armies led by Richard would earn him the title of "The Lionheart", but he would only partially succeed in his goal of restoring European rule to the Middle East. With the fight at a stalemate and Jerusalem remaining in Saladin's hands despite a lengthy siege, King Richard finally agrees to Saladin's terms for cease-fire. 1192 Peace - but for how long? With a desert backdrop set during a time of both chivalry and brutality, Firefly Studios' Stronghold Crusader puts you in the role of either the daring and courageous Richard the Lionheart or the cunning and formidable Saladin. Can you fight your way through the blistering desert heat to conquer your opponent's seemingly impenetrable fortress? Will the castle be defended and the invaders repelled in humiliating defeat? Now you can alter the course of history. Stronghold Crusader is the next instalment in Firefly Studios' Stronghold series of "castle sims", combining the best elements of real-time strategy and city-building games. Stronghold Crusader builds and improves upon the gameplay of the original Stronghold with the inclusion of new types of warriors and workers, new weapons, and a new desert setting that forces new fighting tactics on the battlefield. Features: Relive the heroic battles of the historic Crusades in FOUR distinct campaigns Lead the heavily armored European Knights as Richard the Lionheart and command vast Arabian armies as Saladin, the Sultan of Syria. Attack the strongholds of fierce rival lords while forging an impregnable bastion of defense during intense Skirmish Mode! Experience ruthless medieval combat in a hostile land where Assassins silently slay their victims, Horse Archers combine deadly accuracy with frightening speed, and common Slaves can shift the balance of power! Protect and defend thy loyal subjects from the horrors of Greek Fire with Water Pots, Fire Watchmen, Moats, Killing Pits and more! Storm enemy barricades with over 25 units including Arabian Swordsman, Teutonic Knights, and Grenadiers! Witness unparalleled siege weaponry including mobile Fire Ballista, imposing Siege Towers, crushing Trebuchets, and destructive Mangonels just to name a few! Design challenging new scenarios to thwart thy friends with the full-featured map and scenario editor! Crush thy friends in an ultimate crusade for the crown! Battle up to 8 computer and human lords in multiplayer Skirmish Mode via a LAN or over the Internet. Conquer the Skirmish Trail - 50 linked skirmish missions, each one more challenging than the last! - o -