Square Enix and Gas Powered Games have announced that they are collaborating on a new title - Supreme Commander 2. The 'strategic' partnership between to the two gaming giants is one of the first moves made by Square Enix in an effort to capture more attention in the western market.

The expansion of Square Enix into the western market is one which has been slow, and plagued by awfully staggered release dates. By partnering with a well known developer such as Gas Powered Games, while at the same time branching out into a completely new genre is a massive move by Square Enix.


(Screenshots from Supreme Commander)
Any actual details regarding Supreme Commander 2 are sparse - but it will be (as its name implies) a direct sequel to Supreme Commander, specific platforms, gameplay details and a release date for the title will be announced in the near future.

Yoichi Wada, President and Representative Director of Square Enix is excited about the prospects of working with Gas Powered Games:

We see great opportunities in European and North American markets, both of which are expected to be maintaining sustainable growth over these coming years. Therefore, it is crucial we create alliances with proven developers such as Gas Powered Games in order to serve these significant markets better by providing products and services in tune with customer tastes.

Wada's enthusiasm is shared by Square Enix CEO John Yamamoto, who is also excited about the partnership:

Gas Powered Games is an accomplished development house that has demonstrated its ability to successfully create and develop intellectual properties. We are extremely excited to begin working with Gas Powered Games’ talented personnel and see this strategic partnership as a significant step in our efforts to bring Square Enix titles to a broader global audience.

With Gas Powered Games possessing great experience developing games for the PC, it will be interesting to see how Square Enix serves to influence any major changes to the Supreme Commander look and feel. Whilst Gas Powered Games are talented developers in their own right (as exemplified by Supreme Commander's somewhat large following) it will be very interesting to see how this one turns out. Rest assured, as we learn more, we will keep you informed.