Originally posted by Faeelin
What I can't see is how muslim states differ from the empire.
The empire was already fragmented by 1066 and continued to fragment thereafter. There should be multiple Muslim states available.
The problem is that the "feudalism" structure of this game might not be compatible with a Muslim state as they really didn't have interlocking "layers" of vassals. Vassalage existed among the Seljuks, but I don't think it was hereditary.
On the other hand, that might suggest (perhaps in CK2) a distinct "Muslim tech" route with different goals and mechanics.
And now that I am at it, CK2 could also introduce a "League tech", where leagues of cities can be formed, where nobility does not matter internally, but only externally, with commercial and civic objectives in a republican/dogal setting. (I'm salivating just thinking about it!

)
Anyway, these three distinct techs would pretty much cover all the "systems" available in the Middle Ages -- and give a really stunning flavor to Medieval politics and warfare.
(BTW, Thanks Blade!)