Vassals

[StuntManMatt]

Playing as Russia. I'm not concerned with making other nations become a vassal of mine, as I've never even seen the option. What I'm really interested in is what sort of penalties, if any, there are for becoming a vassal of someone else. First Poland declared war, a few turns later they asked me to become their vassal-- despite my navy kicking theirs all up and down the Baltic. I think, Whatever, I can use this as a reprieve and build up my economy which is in crapper. 4-5 turns later they back stab me..... No matter, I have half of their territories now.

Denmark later declares was the same way Poland did, blockade a dock (really?) I don't do anything about it, because I don't care, and then they ask me to become a vassal. The war with Poland is leaving me with a shoe-string budget so I again think wtf ever, you're just next on my shit list anyway. After I agreed I check my financal status, and I'm making more money, presumably from the trade with them.

So, at the end of the day, what does having a vassal, or becoming one do for you anyway?

[VersusAllOdds]

I know the one thing that will make becoming a vassal unprofitable is that you pay tribute to your master. Don't know how much, but it's not symbolical...

[Myth]

Don't be a vassal. Conquer their lands and exterminate them from the map. Annoying AIs and their ultra agressiveness, always suiciding against my armies *grumble*

[Three4Flinching]

Is there a way to ask/threat someone to become a vassal?

[Viking Prince]

The key to being a vassal is to spend everything. A good share of any unspent current income will go to your master. If your master is at war -- be a good loyal ally and help out the cause and grab a region or two for yourself. Just do not be such a good vassal that the master gets relatively stronger to you over time -- close the gap if you are weaker, widen the gap if you are the stronger.