The Empire strikes gold

PC gamers got one step closer to controlling the entire galaxy today. LucasArts has announced that development on Star Wars: Empire at War is complete, paving the way for a February 16 retail release.

Empire at War is a real-time strategy game based on the Star Wars universe and takes place a few years before Episode IV. Like the best parts of the films, the game is action-based and requires tactical management rather than tedious resource gathering. Both the Rebellion and Empire are playable, and recognizable figures such as Darth Vader also enter the action.

Gamers looking to feel a little bit of The Force now can download the Empire at War demo from GameSpot. For more information on the game, check out GameSpot's recent hands-on. Star Wars: Empire at War is rated T for Teen and will be sold for $49.99.