Alexander's invasion delayed, priced

If the Persian Empire had this much warning of Alexander the Great's impending invasion, perhaps it would still be around. Fans of The Creative Assembly's Rome: Total War have been patiently awaiting an announcement of the Rome: Total War Alexander expansion pack. Since it was announced early last month, its release date was only the nonspecific "June."

Today, it was revealed that the expansion will be available in the very earliest portion of that nebulous date, June 1. Gamers can grab the add-on via digital download from both the Sega and Rome: Total War official Web sites for $14.99.

The expansion will focus on the legendary Macedonian king, who conquered most of the known world before he turned 30. In addition to a new campaign map, there will be six new historical battles with Alex's foes, such as the Greek and Indian armies. There will also be 60 new units and four new factions included--the Macedonians and Persians.

[UPDATE] Just a day after confirming the expansion's release date, Sega has reneged on the June 1 availability.

"Rome: Total War Alexander has been delayed," a Sega rep told GameSpot News. "Nothing wrong with the game that's causing the delay. It's just a case of one of our territories not being ready with their retail site for the game, hence we have to wait a bit to release." Sega still plans to begin digitally distributing sometime in June.