The goal of this petition is to convince Firefly to rework the AI in Stronghold Crusader Definitive Edition to deliver a more dynamic experience while keeping the unique characteristics of each lord (e.g., Rat using only spearmen and archers and being a joke of a lord). Adjust army size based on difficulty (e.g., 20,000–30,000 gold for scaling) without changing unit types. These examples are not strict requirements, and additional changes or unmentioned elements can be added later. The purpose is to provide a general idea of what we aim to achieve with Firefly.

For over 23 years, Stronghold Crusader has been a beloved strategy game. I recommend everyone on the official Discord server read all the memories people share about this game. The Definitive Edition’s success, with over 100,000 downloads in 48 hours, shows its enduring appeal. The biggest problem with AI right now is that it relies on outdated logic. It doesn't meet the expectations in 2025. It sure did back in 2002, but that was 23 years ago. Let that sink in. A reimagined AI could make this the best RTS game they have ever made.

Some AI improvements we would like to see
Early Game Efficiency: AI quickly establishes resource production and food supply for a dynamic start. The AI right now is too passive in DE; even the old lords refuse to attack, or even if they do attack, their army size is just too small to consider it as a threat.
Smarter Resource Management: Recruits units faster, purchasing weapons when possible to bypass slow production.
The new AI should be able to use gold more efficiently (e.g., 20,000–30,000 gold) while maintaining lord identity. This would mean an increased army size and more frequent attacks.
Balances investments in defense and economy based on each lord’s style.
Tactical Enhancements: Improved pathfinding, unit grouping, and attack frequency to avoid issues like unit clumping.
Economic Resilience: AI rebuilds after setbacks, maintaining challenge in long matches.

Difficulty Levels:
Normal: The AI should be as difficult as it is right now in the original SHC, but it should be smarter, e.g., a rat should attack with a larger army as the game progresses if it has enough resources. This would mean the difficulty level stays at what it is in the original Stronghold, but the AI is smarter and keeps being a threat until you kill them. 
Hardcore: More aggressive and tactical AI, with larger, faster attack waves for veteran players. This would be really challenging for even the veteran hardcore players. But this difficulty could create extra challenges and increase replayability. 

We believe not all developers need to focus on the upcoming Stronghold game; if they can contribute, they should work on making this game the most beloved Stronghold title and shine as close to perfection as possible for years to come. The new game can wait, especially with the overwhelming hype surrounding Stronghold Crusader Definitive Edition. By signing, you support elevating this iconic game to meet contemporary RTS standards, ensuring it remains a source of joy for future generations.