New Feature: Faction Loans & Trade Centers

We’ve been working on a brand-new mechanic to expand the economic and strategic depth of Caracol. 

Factions now have a powerful financial tool at their disposal: the ability to issue bonds and take out loans from international Trade Centers. These hubs of commerce are are living financial ecosystems, where vast reserves of capital grow, shift, and shape the course of history. 

Each Trade Center is based in a major city and is controlled by an elite mercantile class with a specific religious affiliation. These centers are not static entities; they evolve over time, expanding their wealth and influence based on trade activity and financial transactions.

How It Works:

• Dynamic Interest Rates: The availability of uninvested capital in a Trade Center directly impacts interest rates—more capital means lower interest rates.
• Loan Requests & Approval: Once a loan request is submitted, it can be accepted within two years (8 turns). If not granted within this period, the request expires.

Strategic opportunities:

• Smaller factions can use loans to develop infrastructure and grow their economy.
• Larger factions can strengthen their defenses and recruit more troops.

This system adds depth to the economic and strategic layers of the game, forcing players to carefully manage their debt and investment choices. Will you leverage these financial opportunities to build an empire, or will debt become your downfall?

Let us know what you think!