effect · add_unit_leader_trait

Hands-On Usage

add_unit_leader_trait is commonly used in scripted events or upon national focus completion to unlock specific traits for a leader. For example, you might grant a commander the "Hardened Veteran" or "Media Personality" trait after completing a specific campaign, enhancing their attributes or triggering special mechanics. In custom leader progression system mods, event chains frequently use this command to progressively add traits to leaders, simulating their growth path.

# Upon completion of a certain focus, add a trait to a specified leader
complete_national_focus = {
    SOV_konstantin_rokossovsky = {
        add_unit_leader_trait = brilliant_strategist
    }
}

Synergy

• [has_trait](/wiki/trigger/has_trait): Check whether a leader already possesses a trait before adding it, avoiding logic confusion from duplicate additions.
• [remove_unit_leader_trait](/wiki/effect/remove_unit_leader_trait): Often paired with this command—remove an old trait first, then add a new one to achieve a "trait upgrade/replacement" effect.
• [add_timed_unit_leader_trait](/wiki/effect/add_timed_unit_leader_trait): As an alternative option, use this command when temporary traits are needed, clarifying the appropriate use case for each.
• [add_skill_level](/wiki/effect/add_skill_level): Frequently used in the same event option to simultaneously raise a leader's skill level, forming a complete "reward package" together with trait additions.

Common Pitfalls

1. Scope Error: This command must execute within a CHARACTER scope. Writing it directly in a COUNTRY scope (such as within a national focus effect block) without first entering the corresponding character's scope will cause the command to silently fail, and the game log may not provide an obvious error message.
2. Trait Name Misspelling or Type Mismatch: The trait entered must be a valid trait token already defined in unit_leader_traits, and must match the leader type (army commander, navy commander, etc.). Adding a navy-exclusive trait to an army leader will not produce an error but typically will not take effect or display.