Firefly Studios has unveiled Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition, a comprehensive remaster of their iconic 2002 real-time strategy game. Set to release on July 15, 2025, for PC via Steam, fans can get a taste of the revamped experience with a demo available now.
“We have tried to go beyond what our players expect,” said Firefly Studios and Stronghold series veteran Nick Tannahill in a press release, according to Gematsu. “This is their favorite game and it deserves to be remastered in all its pre-rendered isometric glory, but with plenty of extra bells and whistles! We would not be doing this were it not for those still playing multiplayer, designing maps and creating mods, like the awesome Unofficial Crusader Patch, so I can’t wait to hear what they all think of our upcoming public demos. We really are dedicated to taking our time with Stronghold and acting on feedback whenever possible.”
What’s New in the Definitive Edition?
Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition breathes new life into the original “castle sim” with enhanced visuals, remastered music, and updated animations. The game introduces new gameplay elements, expanded map sizes, and returning voice actors. Players can look forward to new units, characters, and campaigns, alongside fan-requested improvements.
Set during the Crusades, players will command Crusader warriors through harsh deserts and lead Saladin’s forces to defend against invaders. Historical campaigns will highlight key figures like Richard the Lionheart and Sultan Saladin, immersing players in pivotal medieval conflicts.
Key features via the game’s official Steam page include:
- CLAIM YOUR BIRTHRIGHT and build a thriving desert city with a full castle economy and vicious defences!
- COMMAND NEW UNITS in the form of 8 brave Bedouin warriors with unique attributes, strengths and abilities.
- CLASH AGAINST AI LORDS in skirmish mode, with 4 all-new adversaries employing unique castles and tactics.
- PROVE YOURSELF across 2 new historical campaigns, before facing the challenge of 4 ‘Sands of Time’ skirmish trails.
- SHARE THE LOAD in a new co-op trail, play together against the AI in skirmish or go head-to-head with 8 players online.
- BESIEGE NEW BATTLEFIELDS using larger map sizes, new multiplayer maps and Workshop support for custom scenarios.
- ADMIRE THINE KINGDOM with remastered visuals and music, as well as new recordings from the original game’s actors.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition offers a refreshed yet faithful homage to the original game, promising hours of strategic medieval warfare.
Mark your calendars for July 15, and experience the ultimate edition of this beloved RTS classic, with a demo available to download now on Steam.