Computer and video game publisher Gathering of Developers, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., announced today that FireFly Studios' Stronghold Crusader for the PC has shipped. Published by Gathering of Developers and developed by UK-based FireFly Studios Ltd, "Stronghold Crusader" is now available in stores nationwide.

"We are thrilled to release this imaginative successor to the award-winning Stronghold," said Kelly Sumner, Chief Executive Officer of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. "While the original 'Stronghold' continues to captivate fans worldwide, 'Stronghold Crusader' is packed with intense skirmish play and unparalleled siege weaponry. Players will relive the heroic battles of the historic Crusades in a challenging new desert setting."

"Stronghold Crusader" is a dynamic "castle sim" set in a distant Arabian land that combines the finest aspects from the city builder and real-time strategy genres. In "Stronghold Crusader," players journey to lands renowned for brave warriors and fearsome weaponry. The player's challenge is to build and defend medieval desert fortresses and lay siege to fearless enemies. As European nobles or Arabian warriors, players must conquer the harsh terrain during the legendary Crusades of the 11th and 12th centuries.