Videogame publisher, SouthPeak Interactive Corporation has confirmed it would publish the next installment Firefly Studio's real time strategy title Stronghold series after a recent asset acquisition.

SouthPeak said Stronghold 3 would be published via retail channels and digital distribution.

Introduced in 2001, the Stronghold series is now one of the most respected in its genre, with the franchise selling more than five million copies globally. Stronghold 3 promises to build on these firm foundations with a significantly improved graphics engine and new gameplay elements. Firefly Studios' Stronghold 3 is due for release on PC in 2011.

Melanie Mroz, SouthPeak's CEO said: "Stronghold 3 will be a terrific addition to our line-up as our premier release for Spring 2011. Publishing the newest sequel to the popular Stronghold franchise provides additional visibility to our brand and robust portfolio of games. With a strong built-in user base, we believe the enhancements incorporated into this sequel will drive further growth for the franchise, enhance our revenue stream through traditional retail sales, as well as significantly strengthen our digital offering where there remains tremendous growth opportunity."

SouthPeak's extensive portfolio of over 60 interactive entertainment games spans a variety of platforms and genres including RPG, simulation, FPS, sports, strategy, puzzle and fighting.

The company develops and publishes interactive entertainment software for all current hardware platforms including: Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation3 computer entertainment system, PSP (PlayStation Portable) system, PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Wii, Nintendo DS, iPhone and Windows PC.