14 DAY TRIAL // Stardock, which is both a publisher and a developer, has released a document which details the moves it plans to make in the rest of 2008 and in early 2009. The highlight is a yet un-detailed strategy game which is set for a late 2009 release but there are also plans related to Sins of a Solar Empire and Galactic Civilization II.
The very exciting turn based strategy, which has already got two expansions that have radically reshaped the game, is set to receive one final content update called Galactic Civilizations II Version 2.0 which should provide the definitive experience for all the fans out there. The update will be free for those who already have one of the expansions and Stardock says that it is “the biggest free update to a PC strategy game that we’re aware of”. New graphics, espionage related options and other features are set to arrive to Galactic Civilization fans next month.
Meanwhile, Sins of a Solar Empire, the real time space strategy hit from Ironclad, is set to receive the first of three mini-expansions. It's called Entrenchement and will add more defensive options for all the factions in the game. Expect massive starbases and minefields.
Since 2006, Stardock has been interested in creating a game based on the Master of Magic franchise, but at the moment there are some legal complications with Atari over the intellectual property. Stardock is still working on the game, which is now referred to as Not-MOM. It is said to be “a turn-based strategy game that supports random map generation, integrated modding, city building, unit design, tactical combat, multiplayer, incredibly powerful magical spells, and much more”. Expect to hear more as the open beta, supposed to begin in June 2009, approaches.
Stardock also mentions that it does not plan to support, in the near future, other platforms than the Windows powered PC. It also promises that the implementation of Impulse as a digital download platform will evolve.