World War II Real-Time Stratey: “Hearts of Iron III” Gets “Semper Fi”

Virtual Programming has released Semper Fi, the newest expansion for the real-time strategy game Hearts of Iron III. The expansion for the game introduces new cooperation capabilities with NPC allies and an improved artificial intelligence for computer-controlled countries.

“Want greater cooperation with allies than was previously possible?” the company wrote. “Now you can request troops from allied nations, convince them to attack specific targets, and more. Improved artificial intelligence brings those capabilities to life as computer-controlled nations launch multi-stage invasions, pursue more strategic production of resources, and marshal large naval task forces, among other activities.”

The game also adds hundreds of new historical events, and the ability to compare WWII’s actual historical timeline to the alternate timeline you create in the game. Players can also designate a battleship or battle cruiser as the “Pride of the Fleet,” which adds special bonuses to that ship with repercussions for changing the designation or losing the ship at sea.

Semper Fi supports multiplayer combat for up to 32 players, hidden victory conditions chosen by game leaders at the start of the game (reach 12 of them and win), the ability to define theaters of war, new map modes, and more.

System Requirements: Mac OS X version 10.5.8, any Intel processor, 1GB RAM, 128MB video RAM (Nvidia GeForce 7300 or ATI Radeon HD 2600/4850/4870 or better), and 2GB of hard drive space. A broadband Internet connection is required for Internet play and product registration. Intel GMA integrated chipsets and ATI Radeon X1600 and X1900 video cards are not supported.

The game is priced at £14.95, €19.95, or US$19.95, and is available for download now.

Hearts of Iron: Semper Fi Screenshot

Hearts of Iron III: Semper Fi Expansion Screenshot