[h3]DISTANT WORLDS 2: RETURN OF THE SHAKTURI IS OUT NOW[/h3] Welcome back explorers, an ancient evil is returned to the vast universe of Distant Worlds 2. The wait is over. The [b]Return of the Shakturi[/b], the third DLC and first feature expansion for Distant Worlds 2, is now available. The Shakturi, a sinister alien faction, nearly destroyed the galaxy in a past cataclysm. Originating from another galaxy, they possess abilities beyond normal understanding. Their return poses a dire threat, challenging even the strongest late-game empires. It is now your choice whether to ally with them or fight them. [previewyoutube=8TwHNOndvf4;full][/previewyoutube] [b]Key Features:[/b] [list] [*] [b]Genetic Engineering[/b] in the game introduces a brand-new space creature and allows the Shakturi to manufacture these creatures for scouting and combat. It also grants the Shakturi influence over existing space creatures in the galaxy, enabling them to use these creatures to further their own goals. [*] [b]Biowarfare [/b]enables the Shakturi to deploy plagues that weaken other factions, making them more susceptible to Psychic influence and control. [*] [b]Psychic Abilities[/b] enhance the Shakturi's effectiveness in space and ground combat, diplomacy, espionage, and research. Countering these abilities requires innovative strategies that could potentially turn the Shakturi's strengths into weaknesses. [*] [b]Planet Destroyers and Mega Ships[/b] are powerful tools available to all factions, including those introduced post-release. These formidable assets are crucial in battles against the Shakturi, with Mega Ships offering unique functionalities, such as the Quameno Mobile Robotic Troop Foundry. [*] [b]New Space Creature[/b] – The Rift Strider introduces fresh challenges and opportunities within the game. [*] [b]Outposts [/b]allow factions to establish a presence on worlds unsuitable for full colonization, securing valuable territory for future expansion. [*] [b]The Multi-Empire Alliance System[/b] introduces new ways to coordinate and cooperate with allies, enhancing strategic collaboration across empires. [*] [b]New Space-based[/b] start with just a single colony ship and a small fleet. [*] [b]Ancient Guardian Vaults and Special Artifacts[/b] add depth to exploration and gameplay. [/list] [h3]“STRATEGY” UPDATE[/h3] But that’s not all. Together with the DLC, we are releasing a new official update, free for all. The [b]Strategy Update[/b] includes months of improvements made to support the Return of the Shakturi feature expansion, with a specific focus on refining player and AI management of mid to late game conflicts. We will continue to update, fix, and improve the base game to give the best possible gaming experience. For those of you who want to know every detail of the Strategy Update, a detailed changelog is available at this [url=https://ftp.matrixgames.com/pub/DistantWorlds2/whatsnew.pdf]link[/url]. Also, don't miss today's [url=https://www.twitch.tv/slitherinetv/schedule?segmentID=3e757cf4-4dbb-4418-98a3-81a483783f7f]showcase on Twitch[/url] with [b]Erik Rutins[/b], producer and co-designer of Distant Worlds 2, following the release of The Return of the Shakturi. [i]The Galaxy lives on[/i] https://store.steampowered.com/app/2926560/Distant_Worlds_2_Return_of_the_Shakturi/