Galactic Civilizations III revealed for 64-bit PCs

Stardock today announced Galactic Civilizations III, a sequel to 2006's Galactic Civilizations II: Dread Lords. The new game is in development exclusively for 64-bit PCs. No release date was been announced.

Galactic Civilizations III, a turn-based strategy game, will include new features like multiplayer, "political intrigue," and "vastly improved visuals." New terrain elements like black holes, a "completely overhauled" ship builder, and a new resource system are also included.

"The move to 64-bit architecture heralds a new era of game development at Stardock," Stardock vice president Derek Paxton in a statement. "The technology allows players to experience a level of graphical detail and on-screen activity unprecedented in large-scale strategy PC games. It dramatically increases the size and scope of the maps, and opens the door for modders to add a virtually unlimited amount of new content to the game."

Players can join the Galactic Civilizations III Founder's program today at $40 to receive beta access through the game's website. Meanwhile, the $100 Founder's Elite Edition gives players all future DLC and expansions when they are released, as well as alpha access, their name in the credits, and the ability to name a star that will appear in-game.

The announcement of Galactic Civilizations III comes as Stardock celebrates its 20th anniversary. The company was founded by Brad Wardell in his college dorm room and has since released games like Sins of a Solar Empire and various non-game software like Start8.