JA3 in the works. Again!

bitComposer picks up the JA3 gauntlet

Jagged Alliance is about to pick up its first true sequel in more than a decade. German publisher bitComposer games has acquired the license from Strategy First, and hopes to release a new game sometime next year (via Gamasutra).

"Although Jagged Alliance 2 was published over ten years ago now, the game still represents a milestone in the genre and boasts a huge following of loyal fans," said bitComposer Games CEO Wolfgang Duhr.

"We are delighted to acquire this classic game for bitComposer, and want to continue the success of the previous titles in the series, while giving the new version a contemporary look, bearing in mind the strong features of its predecessors."

This is actually the third time that Jagged Alliance 3 has been announced. After picking up the license from original developer Sir-Tech Software, Strategy First announced Jagged Alliance 3D and Jagged Alliance in 2004. After development conflicts resulted in their cancellation, Strategy First partnered with Russian Studios Akella and F3games, which likewise didn't work out.

Nevertheless, the series continues to a devoted fanbase. We'll see whether bitComposer succeeds where Strategy First failed when it launches next year.