Stronghold Crusader (SHC) is the successor to Stronghold released July 2002. The medieval mixture of city building and real-time strategy of Stronghold continues with Stronghold Crusader. The twist: this time it's the Europeans, led by the ruthless Richard I, invading Phoenicia and Palestine to confront the forces of Islam, led by the cunning Saladin. Players take command of either side and engage in fierce tactical combat including open field battles, sieges, and campaigns.