Crusader Kings 3: Best Starting Rulers for All Under Heaven DLC

The latest expansion for Crusader Kings 3, titled All Under Heaven, adds the rest of Asia to the game, including countries like China, Japan, Korea, and the islands of Southeast Asia. This provides hundreds of new rulers to play as across the game’s three different start dates.

Each new region in the game features a distinct style of government, significantly altering gameplay. For instance, China operates under a meritocratic system where individuals advance through exams and smaller positions to gain influence, while Southeast Asia is ruled by god-kings within a Mandala system. Here are the best starting rulers for the ‘All Under Heaven’ game mode in Crusader Kings 3, offering options throughout the continent.

Anchalsa Sin Yeong-Jae Of Naju – 867

Forge A New Destiny For Korea In A Time Before Cultural Dominance

Government Type: Meritocratic

When you begin a game set later in history, the Kingdom of Goryeo (modern-day Korea) appears with a single unified culture. However, starting in 867, Korea is divided. Players can begin as Anchalsa Sin Yeong-jae, representing the Baekje culture, and attempt to challenge the dominant Silla culture that currently gives the kingdom its name.

As a long-time fan of historical strategy games, I’m really excited about the cultural details in this one! It’s cool how they’ve included remnants of the old Three Kingdoms – you can find Baekje influence in the southwest and even traces of Goguryeo up in the northwest. But what really gets me thinking is what happens if you manage to unite all of Korea. Apparently, the lands north of us are a lot more divided, which opens up the possibility of expanding our kingdom even further! It adds a whole new layer of strategy, and I can’t wait to try it out.

Master Song Jiang – 1066

A Landless Adventurer & Future Rebel Against The Song Dynasty

Government Type: Landless Adventurer

As a huge fan, I’m really excited that if you have the Road to Power DLC, you can actually start as a Landless Adventurer like Song Jiang in the 1066 start! He’s a fascinating historical character – basically a leader of a rebel group who fought against the Song Dynasty in China. It’s awesome to be able to play as him!

The band players control begins as mercenaries, but could easily become outright bandits if players choose to create widespread disruption within the Hegemony. At only 16, Song Jiang has plenty of time to grow stronger and hone his abilities, potentially becoming powerful enough to overthrow the Celestial government. Because he’s free to travel, players can also explore the expanded Asian landscape introduced in the All Under Heaven expansion.

Maharaja Harshavarman III Of Angkor – 1066

Expand The Kingdom Of Angkor & Learn The Mandala Government

Government Type: Mandala

For players new to the Mandala government type, the Kingdom of Angkor is an excellent starting point. Its name is well-known, thanks to Angkor Wat, which players can actually construct in the game starting in 1066 as the kingdom’s capital. Given that Angkor Wat was originally built around the early 12th century and costs 1950 gold to build in the game, this timeframe feels historically appropriate.

In the Mandala region, rulers aim to become god-kings, each focusing on a specific divine quality. Religion plays a central role in the game here, as it’s used to gain and keep allies, known as Tributaries.

Bhupati Nyang Of Berau – 1066

Unite The Kaharingan Faith To Reclaim The Island Of Borneo & All Holy Sites

Government Type: Wanua

Of all the new governing systems in All Under Heaven, Wanua is the least known. It’s comparable to the Tribal system, but focuses more on attacks from the sea and introduces a new Barter system, allowing tribes to trade resources with each other.

The new map expansion includes several Wanua realms, but Borneo stands out. In 1066, followers of the Kaharingan faith don’t control any of the island’s five sacred sites. Players can take on the role of Bhupati Nyang of Berau, a rising Kaharingan leader, and attempt to restore control of these holy places while also gathering Cranial Trophies.

High Chieftain Temujin, Of The Mongols – 1178

Genghis Khan Can Now Conquer China Too

Government Type: Nomad

If you own the Khans of the Steppe DLC, playing as Genghis Khan is now more immersive thanks to the addition of the rest of Asia to the game. Before, the Mongols were limited to westward and southward expansion, but now they can historically conquer east into China.

Players who choose to settle and govern in China can adopt a Celestial or Meritocratic approach, and can even develop unique cultures and religions. Many of the strongest rulers in the Khans of the Steppe DLC also benefit from using the All Under Heaven system for similar reasons.

Soryo Minamoto Yoritomo Of The Kawachi Bushidan – 1178

Unite Other Minamoto To Bring Peace To Japan, Before Potentially Defending Against Mongols

Government Type: Soryo

Most people picture the Sengoku period when they think of feudal Japan, but that era didn’t begin until the 1400s. While it’s a bit later than the timeframe in Crusader Kings 3, the game’s 1178 start date still offers a good approximation. At that time, nearly all of Japan used the Soryo system, a type of feudal government.

Historically, Japan often used a system of government called Ritsuryo, which was similar to the administrative style found in China. If you’re choosing a leader in 1178, Minamoto Yoritomo would be a strong choice. He could rally support from the Minamoto clan and counter the growing power of Taira Kiyomori. Considering the Mongol threat on the horizon, it’s also important to focus on strengthening Japan’s defenses.

Intendant Xin Qiji Of Hunan – 1178

Try To Militarize China Before The Arrival Of The Mongols

Government Type: Celestial

China is a key feature of the All Under Heaven game. For a particularly challenging start, players should begin in 1178, a time of political instability. The Song Dynasty faces pressure from the Jin Empire to the north, and a new threat – the rising Mongol empire – is emerging from the northwest.

Players can become powerful governors, like Intendant Xin Qiji, focused on strengthening the Song Dynasty. The goal is to expand territory, creating safe borders and boosting the economy and army to prepare for a potential conflict with the Mongols. To succeed, players should aim for a position governing a border province and prioritize building strong defenses.

2025-10-31 16:37