Rapid industrialization and new technologies have made it possible for your growing power to push into lands once considered uninhabitable for ‘civilized’ men. The riches of Africa beckon you, as you explore new territories and exploit the wealth and people within. But a growing empire will eventually bump into another power with the same ambitions, and a savvy smaller state will know how to exploit the conquerors’ greed and pride.

Welcome to "Heart of Darkness", the second expansion for Paradox Development Studios’ "Victoria II", a detailed political/economic simulation of the Victorian Age, an era of rapid transformation of technology, politics and business.

"Heart of Darkness", as its name suggests, focuses on the Scramble for Africa, the late 19th century rush for newly discovered wealth and land in a continent whose interior had been mostly free from European domination.

The upcoming expansion also introduces a new diplomatic event, International Crises, where the colliding desires of rival empires get settled by Great Power mediation and where smaller powers can manipulate their friends to support their own local ambitions.

The Feature List Includes: New colonization system that emphasizes competition between expanding powers and the possibility for minor disputes to escalate into crises.

New naval system with greater detail in battles, including gun ranges and positioning, and more types of ships to bridge the gap between ironclads and dreadnoughts.

International crises that will test the resolve of Great Powers and force them to decide what price they will pay to maintain their prestige. As a smaller power, stir up crises to force the world to pay attention to your grievances.

A newspaper system will allow you to track all the most important events in your world instead of relying on the game log. With over 60 papers to choose from, find those that will tell you what you really need to know.

"Victoria II: Heart of Darkness" is scheduled for release in March 2013.