Today sees the release of the brand new expansion to the critically acclaimed Crusader Kings II, The Republic expansion introduces the great merchant republics of medieval Europe to the grand scale game, allowing players a fresh new experience as they adopt the role as the head, or Patrician of one of the five great merchant families, so that they may build trade posts and expand provincial empires whilst attempting to assert some dominance over the rival families of the Republics and feudal lords.

To celebrate the event, Paradox have released a launch trailer.

Paradox Interactive aren’t simply knocking out a new expansion however, alongside the release of The Republic comes Patch 1.09 and two smaller DLC packs; Crusader Kings II: Songs of Prosperity containing three new songs, and Crusader Kings II: Mediterranean Portraits that contains thousands of new unique face combos for male and female characters perfect for the republic expansion, both are available for a mere 99p each.

The Republic allows players to experience a whole new style of game, playing as the head of a Patrician family in one of the great Merchant Republics of Venice, Genoa, Pisa, the Hanseatic League or Gotland that control the sea with their trading empire, whilst defending it at all costs be it against feuds or rival families.

As the head of the family you must guide your Republican dynasty through fortune and misfortune in a world that is dominated by kings and emperors. Crusader Kings II: The Republic expansion is out now on all major digital distribution sites for the SRP of £7.99.