I've been anticipating Paradox and TaleWorlds' next entry into the Mount & Blade series, With Fire and Sword, ever since I got to take a look at it way back at GDC, and now I'm truly looking forward to it, now that the game's gone gold and a release date's been set. The open-world military/life strategy simulator RPG of sorts is set to come out on May 3, for the ridiculously awesome price of $14.99. With Fire and Sword loosely follows the 1884 cult classic historical novel of the same name, and introduces firearms and grenades into the mix, along with an improved battle and combat mechanic.

If you haven't played a Mount & Blade game before, I suggest you pick this one up. If open world action/adventure games are your thing, you will absolutely adore this; I don't think I've ever played any other game that's as truly free as this one. You start off as a nobody, and can work your way up to being a leader of a great military, or a brilliantly ruthless mercenary, or a hands-on diplomat of sorts. The freedom truly is staggering, almost intimidating, but it's an amazing breath of fresh air from the normal fare. Hit the jump to check out a new trailer highlighting the siege mechanics of the game, which look ridiculously epic.

The graphics aren't anything to write home about, but that looks more epic than a lot of polished AAA titles out now. Can't wait to get my hands on this one, for sure.