Election season is in full swing in America, and one writer decided to see if Paradox's grand strategy simulator, Crusader Kings 3, could offer insights into removing a leader from power. The experiment involved creating an 80-year-old, 'lunatic' Holy Roman Emperor named Wenzel and then attempting to influence or usurp him from the perspective of a minor vassal.
Creating the Emperor
To simulate a senile leader, a custom ruler named Wenzel was created with the 'lunatic' trait. The player then chose a minor, unremarkable vassal as their own character, prone to tuberculosis, to represent the common populace.
The initial strategy focused on diplomatic approaches. This involved showering Emperor Wenzel with gifts and flattery to improve his opinion, while simultaneously courting the favor of other powerful vassals through similar means and initiating schemes to gain their support. The hope was to either be nominated as Wenzel's heir or to be made co-ruler, bypassing the HRE's less frequent election cycles.
The Plague and Political Setbacks
Unexpectedly, the game introduced a plague, dubbed 'Wenzel's Cough,' which ravaged the player's lands and family. Despite the illness, the player managed to secure a personal physician and undergo a risky bee treatment, which alleviated their own symptoms. However, one of the player's sons succumbed to the plague.
Meanwhile, political maneuvering continued. The plan to ally with a powerful Tuscan duchess, Matilda, was thwarted when she independently declared a war of independence against Wenzel, a move that seemed destined for failure and likely led to her capture and potential execution.
A Lingering Leader
Wenzel himself developed traits like 'Irritable' and 'Withering mind,' and faced multiple plagues and an exploding heart, yet stubbornly refused to die. The player, however, ultimately succumbed to their own illness, failing to find a definitive method for removing the senile leader from power. The experiment concluded with Wenzel still in control, despite his deteriorating condition, and the player dead, leaving America with a wry warning: "Well, good luck America."