Company of Heroes 2 pushed back to June 2013

World War II real-time strategy game Company of Heroes 2 has had its release date pushed back to June 25 in North America and Europe, new publisher Sega has announced.

The game, developed by Relic Entertainment, was originally due out this year from now-defunct publisher THQ. Sega purchased Relic, which also makes the Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War series, for $26.6 million.

Sega said the delay would "help Company of Heroes 2 meet the high standard set by its predecessor, the highest rated strategy game of all time."

Producer Greg Wilson said that Relic hates "to disappoint our fans with a later than expected date as we know they are eager to play but we feel that the additional time will help the team deliver the high quality sequel fans deserve."

"However, the wait won't be long as players will soon be able to help us test and balance multiplayer in the upcoming Closed Beta. Details will follow shortly."

GameSpot awarded the original Company of Heroes a 9.0 when it was released in 2006.