Soulcalibur IV set for July 29 unsheathing

Soulcalibur IV represents a number of new frontiers for the venerable Namco Bandai fighting franchise. Fans are no doubt eagerly awaiting the chance to try out the first proper entry on the current generation of systems and see how it has been changed by the inclusion of online multiplayer, finishing moves, and high-profile cast additions like Darth Vader (for the PlayStation 3 edition) and Yoda (for the Xbox 360).

Now gamers as obsessed with Soulcalibur IV as the game's protagonists are with the titular sword can finally mark their calendars. Namco Bandai today confirmed a July 29 North American release date for the game, which will launch in regular and limited Premium Edition packages.

Customers who pick up the Premium Edition will get an art book/comic that serves as a prequel leading into the story of Soulcalibur IV, a tournament kit, and exclusive access to "extra customization content." Exactly what the tournament kit entails is unknown, but Namco Bandai said it would "give fans the opportunity to document the battle amongst friends." The Premium Edition will come in metal packaging and retail for $79.99.