Fantasy Flight Games has released more details about the upcoming release of Dark Heresy Second Edition.  This updated version of its roleplaying game set in the grim dystopian future of the Warhammer 40,000 universe is scheduled to release in the third quarter of 2014.
 
Like the previous edition, this new version casts the players in the role of "acolytes" who serve a mysterious and powerful Inquisitor.  The acolytes are tasked with uncovering and investigating plots in a secret war against the Imperium.  The Second Edition introduces a new sector of the Imperium, called the "Askellon Sector," providing an entirely new area of mystery and conspiracy for fans of the game as well as continuing to flesh out the ever-growing Warhammer 40,000 setting.
 
The 448-page, full-color hardcover rulebook includes complete rules for stand-alone adventures and on-going campaigns, a short introductory story written by Dan Abnett (Guant’s Ghost series), background information about the Askellon Sector and the Imperium of Man, and an introductory adventure, Dark Pursuits.
 
The new edition was developed based on feedback from the earlier edition’s thousands of fans, including a public beta program run by Fantasy Flight in 2013 (see "'Dark Heresy 2E' Goes to Beta").  Rules changes include new player classes, integrated vehicle combat rules, a streamlined character creation system, and an NPC "threat rating" system to help gamemasters design encounters.
 
Dark Heresy Second Edition will have a suggested retail price of $59.95.  It will be supported by the release of a Dark Heresy Second Edition Game Master’s Kit, also scheduled to release in the third quarter with a suggested retail price of $24.95.
 
When combined with its companion games, Rogue Trader and Deathwatch, Dark Heresy ranked in the top five best-selling role playing games as recently as Spring 2013 (see "Top 5 RPGs--Spring 2013").