Total War Rome 2 was rumoured by our own TaheRookie at the beginning of last week. To confirm his sneaky suspicions we have now received official word from Creative Assembly that Rome 2 is indeed their next release.

Lets take a look at the press release from earlier today...

This is what they have to say about it.

Total War: Rome II™ will combine the most expansive turn-based campaign and the largest, most cinematic real-time battles yet seen in any game.

Total War: Rome II™ will sink players into the dangerous political machinations of Rome’s senate, while asking them to struggle with family dilemmas and question the loyalty of ‘friends’ and allies. Leading the greatest army ever seen into battle will be just one challenge you will face at the head of the world’s first superpower.

Will you help forge an empire? Restore the Republic? Or grasp the reins of power for yourself, and assume the hated title of tyrant? Who will you conquer? Who will you betray? Who will you sacrifice?

How far will you go for Rome?

“Our games have always encompassed a grand vision ”, said Mike Simpson, Creative Director. “But we’re now pushing that vision at both ends of the spectrum. From the immense reach of the sandbox campaign right down to the human-level drama of a single warrior on the battlefield, we’re aiming for an unprecedented level of detail and scale”.

“In our 25th year of games development, it feels fitting to return to our most critically acclaimed era”, continued Rob Bartholomew, Brand Director. “There’s been a multi-generational leap in technology since the original game and we are ready to set another benchmark in gaming.”

Total War: Rome II™ is due for release in 2013.

You can also check out the early artistic impressions of the game here

What do you think of this, is it right that Creative Assembly keep churning out games they have already done before? Or more importantly will you buy it despite it probably already sitting on your shelf? Or did you feel that the original Rome Total War needed some serious updating and you are very much excited by this update?