“Strategy First is pleased to announce our partnership with Nival,” said Steve Wall, V.P. of Acquisitions for Strategy First. “Etherlords impressed everyone when it debuted last year, with its combination of stunning graphics and amazingly deep gameplay. Given such a strong foundation to build upon, Strategy First looks forward to nurturing the sequel into the franchise it deserves to be.”

"We are convinced that our partnership with Strategy First will ensure that Etherlords II will achieve its full potential”, said Serge Orlovsky, President of Nival Interactive. "Working together enables us to introduce the best of turn-based tactical gameplay to a larger audience of strategy gamers."

Etherlords II is the sequel to the innovative turn-based strategy game originally released in November 2001. Similar to Etherlords I, which was highly praised for its tactical depth and stunning graphics, Etherlords II promises to be even more spectacular, changing the emphasis of the game from simple exploration and resource gathering to a more enriching story-driven adventure.

Players control one of four races in a lavish 3D fantasy world, in which they will explore, and conquer territory, solve puzzles, and seek out enemies. Combat takes place in wonderfully detailed and expansive arenas and is based upon fantasy collectable card games in which the player must make tactical decisions on the types and combinations of spells and creatures to cast against their foes.

The sequel is based upon a new and enhanced narrative that lends itself to exploration and adventure. 4 new campaigns will offer 16 new creatures and over 30 new spells, including spells and creatures that can be wielded by all of the races. A simplified interface and a thorough tutorial system enhances gameplay as well as new abilities, such as sailing, tunneling, teleporting, and an artifact editor for creating customized spells. As Heroes develop their skills they will change in appearance, giving the game more of a role-playing aspect.

In addition, players will find a map editor that allows anyone to create their own maps and combine them into entire campaigns. Added modes for one-on-one and team-based multiplayer duels on a new game server featuring auto-rating and recording will make on-line tournaments more captivating than ever before.

More information about Etherlords II can be found soon at www.etherlords.com