Microsoft announced today that “Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom” will hit store shelves in Q2 2007. The Xbox 360 exclusive will take the franchise in a new direction as developer BLUESIDE and series director Henry Lee plan to create a truly next-generation Action-RPG, departing from their well-known Action-RTS formula.

Taking advantage of the Xbox 360 processing power, randomly generated dungeons and landscapes, along with thousands of fierce on-screen enemies attacking from all directions, will test the abilities of even the most skilled gamers and make for a new adventure around every corner. With a newly enhanced, intuitive control system, gamers will experience fast, blood-thirsty action.

Although not a direct successor to the previous “Kingdom Under Fire” titles, “Circle of Doom” serves as an important link between the storylines of its predecessors. The game features a cast comprised of heroes from all previous “Kingdom Under Fire” games, and depending on the player’s decisions, the story can quickly branch out in unexpected directions.

“Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom” will also feature Xbox Live components. Though full details are yet to be revealed, players can choose to play alone or recruit up to four team members to continue their quest together online.

The game will be published globally by Microsoft, with the exception of Korea.