One of Steam's best-rated games is free to download and keep forever

Now’s your chance to grab another Steam freebie, this time one of the best-rated games on the platform, Crusader Kings II.

Developed by Paradox Interactive, Crusader Kings II was released in 2012 for PC, and is a multiplayer strategy game that lets players build an empire in the Middle Ages by conquering land, fighting battles and hoarding resources.

Games can last several in-game centuries, from 1066 all the way to 1453, and can be played with up to 32 people, or AI if you’d prefer. Players rack up points and “prestige” by tactically building a dynasty through careful planning and control over the landscape. Not only do you have to capture and defend the land, but you also have to listen to your civilisation, educate them, train them and use them to solidify your reign or risk destruction at the hands of other players.

The game received highly-positive reviews from critics and fans, who praised its gameplay and the versatility of its playstyles.

“The details and options to this game gives you almost infinite replayable hours. This has quickly became one of my favorite games.”

“One of the greatest simulation games ever made period end of story. If your into this kind of gameplay you can lose many hours of your life before you know it be it single player, or multi.”

“Awesome game, even though it's 11 years old now. Still one of the best strategy games out there. 10/10”

Crusader Kings II also received several DLC packs, adding additional leaders, factions and gameplay options to choose from.

The game is currently free to download and keep forever on Steam, provided your PC has the necessary requirements to store and run it.