ICv2 has learned that WizKids will release the first expansion for its sold-out Pirates of the Spanish Main Constructible Strategy Game in March of 2005.  The as-yet-unnamed expansion will feature a mix of ships, crew and unique treasure consistent in with the original release.  Unlike the frist release, each booster pack will contain a one-page easy start rule sheet, which will allow players to begin playing immediately.

Meanwhile retailers are awaiting the second printing of the original Pirates of the Spanish Main release (see 'Pirates of the Spanish Main Sold Out').  WizKids and all of its distributors are sold out, so none are available at the wholesale level.  Rare ships are going for over $30 on eBay. 

The second printing, which is due in late August or early September, will be far larger than the first.  WizKids is estimating that the second printing will provide an eight to twelve month's supply, and after the second printing is gone the company does not plan to go back to press. 

Although the initial Pirates of the Spanish Main offering was hobby only, WizKids is exploring getting the product into specialty retail chains and mass merchants and expects to achieve that goal for the holiday season.  Hobby orders will be filled first from the second printing, but hobby retailers then will likely have a limited period of time before competition arrives from chain retailers.