Stardock today announced the release of a free update to its space strategy title Galactic Civlizations II, bringing the long-standing title up to version 2.0 with an armada of new features.

The update--only applicable to users who own either of the series' two expansions--can be automatically grabbed from Stardock's gaming platform, Impulse. Highlights include making all campaigins playable in the newest expansion, Twilight of the Arnor, as well as improved graphics and balancing.

A partial list of changes follows:... Read more

It would be very easy to ignore a series like Galactic Civilizations II. I am living proof.

Consider that I am a huge fan of space, strategy, and PC space strategy games. In other words, I am a huge nerd. But sitting down to play Galactic Civilization II: Twilight of the Arnor, having never played a game in the series, I figured this old, low budget, turn-based title wouldn't interest me. I always thought of it like I do outdoor sports: I'm sure the game is fun, but it looks like way too much work, thank you.

Just a few turns, I figured, then back to Liberty City.

But those few turns gave way to a hundred. Then a thousand. Countless hours melted away before my eyes, replaced by burned-in images of battlecruisers, research trees, and galactic maps.

I woke up sometime in the future, on the other side of a time warp-hole, behind on my work and really, really in need of a bathroom. It was then that I knew I'd discovered the most addictive game since, well, that other Civilization series.... Read more

Stardock today launched the last expansion to its 4X strategy PC series Galactic Civilizations II.

The Twilight of the Arnor expansion pack boasts improved graphics, unique tech trees for each race, a host of new features, and solar system-smashing Terror Stars.

The game is available for purchase on Stardock's website for $29.95, but requires the first Dark Avatar expansion to run. A GalCiv II Ultimate bundle, including the original game and both expansions, is also available for $59.95.

The GameShark guys sink their teeth into Brad Wardell, not letting go until he's given up the goods on Galactic Civilizations 2: Twilight of the Arnor.

Both IGN and Games Radar have posted previews of Galactic Civilizations 2: Twilight of the Arnor, checking out this upcoming strategy game expansion pack.