E3 2005 will mark the second appearance of Blitzkrieg II, CDV's appropriately titled follow-up to 2003's Blitzkrieg, a World War II-based real-time strategy game. The original Blitzkrieg was a solid game, and developer Nival Interactive is looking to build on the success of that game by adding a host of new features to the sequel. Like the first game, Blitzkrieg II is an RTS that sets you in the middle of many epic battles from the second World War. One of the big focuses in this sequel will be making the gameplay a more dynamic experience. You will be able to tailor the difficulty of the game and adjust the style of play to whatever you prefer. During a battle, you'll be able to call in any type of reinforcement you wish, capture major objectives like airfields or train stations to bring in more troops, and even specifically choose which missions you want to undertake. Mission varieties will include air strikes, counterattacks, covert operations, seashore battles, and landing missions.

　　In terms of direct improvements and additions over the original game, as far as sheer content goes, the game will include more than 200 3D vehicles (including aircraft), 60 different types of infantry, and new locations like the Philippines, Iwo Jima, Tobruk, Operation Market Garden, Moscow, Stalingrad, and the Ardennes. You'll also notice adjustments to specific units, such as air units, which are now fully controllable instead of being just a support option. Naval units are also now fully available in coastal battles, such as torpedo boats, amphibious assault craft, and battleships. The developers are working to try to make the strategies of the game as realistic as possible, making it so every single tactical battle won has a significant impact on the historical battles that conclude each chapter.

　　Other features to be found in Blitzkrieg II include a fully 3D graphics engine, complete with an interactive camera that you can pan, zoom, and rotate; an integrated mod and map editor that you can use to design your own battles and historical "what if" situations; and improved multiplayer that includes integrated matchmaking and Internet ladder support. Currently, Blitzkrieg II is due out in the second quarter of 2005. We will bring you more on the game soon.