Unlike their stability in other eras, the Abbasids in 867 suffer from low internal control and aggressive vassals (like the Tulunids in Egypt or the Saffarids in Persia).
The British Isles are the focal point of the 867 start date. The Great Heathen Army has landed, completely upending the Anglo-Saxon heptarchy.
Pagan faiths are dominant and active, allowing players to reform old religions or create entirely unique heresies before Catholicism stabilizes.
A powerful Jewish Steppe empire that acts as a buffer between the Byzantines and the nomadic tribes of the north. ck3 map 867
If you play as a Tribal or Unreformed Pagan ruler, raiding is your primary source of income and prestige. Use river-navigation mechanics (unique to Norse culture) to sail deep into continental Europe and sack wealthy capitals like Paris, Rome, or London.
The Ultimate Guide to the CK3 867 Start Date: Map, Realms, and Strategy
I can provide a highly detailed, step-by-step starting guide tailored exactly to your goals. Share public link Unlike their stability in other eras, the Abbasids
The Sunnis are united under the Abbasid Caliphate in Baghdad, but the empire is rotting from within.
The Byzantines are positioned to reconquer the Balkans, push back the Arab caliphates in Anatolia, reassert dominance over Southern Italy, and potentially restore the Roman Empire. The Abbasid Caliphate
While technically a superpower centered in Baghdad, it is beginning to suffer from internal "Anarchy at Samarra." Powerful vassals and regional governors are increasingly independent. Pagan faiths are dominant and active, allowing players
Haraldr Fairhair starts in Norway, poised to historically unify the kingdom. Björn Ironside rules Sweden, offering a stable launchpad for Baltic dominance.
Ruling Denmark, he sits on a wealthy, compact de jure kingdom ready for quick unification.
Because borders are less "fixed" than in 1066, expect rapid expansion and collapse. A single successful Crusade or Great Holy War can shift the balance of power overnight.
While stable from the outside, Byzantium is plagued by internal faction demands, liberty wars, and religious friction with neighboring Catholic and Islamic realms. The Abbasid Caliphate: A House of Cards