But, for a game that is relatively old and already has a successor out, for which no new content is expected, but that has a lot of accumulated content, and which retains the old purchase options at the same prices, I'm fine with it. I'm concerned about the move to subscription-only models as a way to erode rights, and I'm concerned about subsidized subscriptions where there is a purchase option but it is too expensive (again, with the intention of eroding rights and keeping control over stuff). Yes, I like having 'permanent' ownership of stuff, and I hate the hassle of subscribing and then unsubscribing to stuff. Or if you tend to play in short bursts - spend a month playing furiously and then not touching it for several months - this can be quite economic. If you can't spend a ton of money at once, this gives the full package at once and it would be years before you took a loss - and you can cancel when you aren't playing.

But if you aren't sure you are going to play the game for years (or even more, if you are sure you'll only play for a few months and quit), this is good. I already have all the DLC I care about (and some I don't), and even for Paradox games where I don't have any DLC yet it would certainly be better to buy stuff normally. I think this is a very positive option, as the option to purchase the DLC permanently and individually is still available. Paradox confirmed they continue to look into making the same subscription system available to other titles. It remains entirely optional, with DLC purchases not going away.

and many more improvements to the core game experience.

The Crusader Kings II Ruler Designer, so you can create your own starting monarch.

The Game Converter, which lets you export your saved game to Europa Universalis IV.

10 portrait packs of clothing and faces for rulers around the world.

14 music packs, including two heavy metal scores.

12 unit packs, including new army sprites for your medieval forces.

13 major expansions, including the fierce Norse of The Old Gods, the eastern riches of Rajas of India, and the scheming vassals of Conclave.

If you wanted to buy all of it you're looking about £228 whereas the subscription is £3.99 / $4.99 / €4.99 per month. Like other Paradox Development Studios titles, it has a lot of DLC available and it can be a little overwhelming on both the cost and what to pick from. The subscription service is now live on Steam, giving access to everything that the game has to offer. It being free also makes it a good entry point for Paradox strategy titles.

Even though Crusader Kings III is out now, the classic Crusader Kings II is tried and tested with multiple thousands of people still playing it regularly. Paradox Interactive are branching out with revenue models and they're now doing a subscription for Crusader Kings II, which itself is free to play.

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