14 DAY TRIAL // Stronghold Crusader 2 is the much-awaited sequel to the 2002 hit title Stronghold Crusader, currently in development by Firefly Studios and scheduled to release during Spring 2014.
The first gameplay demo of Stronghold Crusader 2 was featured during E3 2013, and the first gameplay trailer was released at Gamescon 2013.
Now, Firefly Studios published a speed painting video confirming the return of the powerful Arabic Horse Archer. With its ability to fire arrows at all angles and while in rapid movement, the unit quickly became a fan favorite in the original game.
The Horse Archer's special ability will be one of many featured at the Stronghold Crusader 2 launch, as more than half the units in the game possess a unique attack or ability.
The official press release details such unique mechanics, citing the mighty Sassanid Knight's ability to counter the Horse Archer's speed and mobility with his gap-closing charge ability.
In turn, the Sassanid Knight is vulnerable while facing the Pikeman, who is able to enter a defensive stance and gain bonus damage against charging units.
The interwoven strong and weak points of the game's many units is stated to be a key part of Crusader 2 gameplay, one that will set it apart from its predecessor without altering the gameplay the first iteration's many fans so much enjoyed.
In the months prior to the title's release, the studio plans to arrange for a public beta test of the game, with more details to be announced at the start of 2014.
Stronghold Crusader 2 is scheduled for release in Spring 2014, and it will be digitally self-published by its developers at Firefly Studios. Its 2002 predecessor accumulated lifetime sales of over 5 million units and still has playing fans all around the world.
