When I log into Steam with my Australian account, the banner for Crusader Kings 3 says "NOW AVAILABLE!" But when I click through to the store page, it says "Due to an agreement with the publisher, Crusader Kings III is currently not available in your region. NOT AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE." When I tried to purchase it at the Paradox store in Australia, the cashier said, "Crusader Kings III is not currently available for purchase in your country. We are working to resolve this as soon as possible." The message was displayed.

Last month, the Crusader Kings Twitter account said, "Sales of CK3 in Australia and New Zealand are currently suspended as we are investigating issues related to the age rating. Paradox will be fulfilling orders that have already been placed." He stated. As for New Zealand, the issue was resolved prior to launch, but apparently not so for Australia.

Usually the Classification Board of Australia is responsible in such cases, but "Crusader Kings 3" is not even on the Australian list. On the other hand, its predecessor, "Crusader Kings 2," escaped a PG rating for "mild violence" and "online interactivity." What is so shockingly different about "Crusader Kings 3"?

In a statement to Kotaku Australia, Paradox said, "Up until this point, we have dealt with rating classification issues through intermediary agencies rather than directly with the Classification Board. Because much of this process must necessarily be kept between the parties involved, unfortunately we are unable to provide any further details. We hope that things will be resolved soon and that Australian viewers will be able to enjoy Crusader Kings III."

Meanwhile, "Crusader Kings III" appears to be playable in Australia through Xbox Game Pass without any problems.