When you think of management sims, what games come to mind? Do you think of the Sims, Roller Coaster Tycoon, Age of Empires, Factorio, Tropico, or maybe even Stardew Valley? In 2001, Medieval Fantasy lovers were introduced to a management sim called Stronghold by Firefly Studios.
At PAX West 2023, we met with Firefly Studios to preview a franchise they had been working on for 20+ years; at that meeting, we got a glimpse of Stronghold Definitive Edition. Now, less than 2 years later, Firefly Studios is back with yet another remaster of their beloved franchise.
At PAX East 2025, we met with Firefly Studios to preview their upcoming remaster, Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition. When it comes to management sims, there are only a few that can compete with Firefly Studios and their Stronghold franchise.
What does Stronghold Crusader: DE, this expanded version of the original game, have in store for its audience? The game offers eight new playable units, four fresh AI lords to face off against, and several additional campaigns.
Play alone in two new historical campaigns and four ‘Sands of Time’ skirmish trails; additionally, you will be able to team up with a friend in the all-new co-op trail!
Despite having a long day at the show, we got some time with the demo. Alongside our session we got to watch how others tackled the demo. Some would quit within the first few minutes, but the ones who loved the game were lightning focused on completing the mission objectives.
Building the city and guiding your civilization to different tasks is as easy as clicking a button. Mouse movement was responsive, and it was easy to select exactly what you wanted.
Building the walls is an easy click-and-drag mechanic, but installing guard towers and walkways is another story. You will need to rotate the camera angle in order to path the walkways and steps.
The game adds more structures and gameplay elements on top of what made the original great; these expanded elements, alongside visual upgrades, remind fans of what they once loved while introducing new players to a beloved franchise.
Getting a chance to play the demo and seeing the enjoyment on other player’s faces as they got to experience it shows why Stronghold is such a beloved series. The game is easy to pick up and play while giving its players a look at a time before their own.
How does it feel to play god and have the fate of your civilization in your hands? Will you be carefree and make them fend for themselves, or will you guide them to the promised land and become a powerhouse nation?
Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition is in development for Windows PC (via Steam) and is set to launch on July 15th.
