played a few games, now I want to tackle Byzantium

[ve3609]

I played a few games (became king of Ireland, played as william the conquerer) and I want to play as someone in the Byzantine Empire. Any tips?

 

[Lord Finnish]

Not in particular order:

1. Emperor Alexios in The Alexiad scenario, since he starts in a relatively poor situation surrounded by enemies and having lost Anatolia to Seljuks. He was also an awesome Emperor and I recommend reading the book carrying the name of the scenario.
2. Doux of Epirus, the Palaiologoi. As the final dynasty of the Empire, they are an interesting choice.
3. Romanos IV Diogenes in 1067-1071. He was the man who lost Manzikert so you might as well change history.
4. Start just after the end of the Latin Empire (~1262). The Empire can now hardly be called an "empire". Surrounded by Latins and Muslims, it's a challenge just to survive.

 

[Imperator1993]

If u want to play a mod CK2 Plus gives Ioannes Komneos (Alexios's dad) a strong claim of the throne right at the start in 1066 so just wait for the turk war to end and create a faction and boom become Emperor.

 

[HabemusZlatan]

If you want to be a Superpower without having to deal with the Seljuks, Manuel Komnenos is a good choice. You'll have a good chunk of Anatolia and all the Balkans.

 

[Lamprey]

I would recommend playing the Alexiad scenario, like someone said previously. Byzantium just got its teeth kicked in at Manzikert, it's still got some punches left to throw but it's no longer a superpower. You have your work cut out for you - get Anatolia back - and there's plenty of challenge there.

If you like an easier game, start in 1066 and roflstomp the world. There's always joy in that.