Open-world action game Just Cause 2  will be available for purchase on March 23rd, 2010, in North America.

We've been holding our breath for a long time for Just Cause 2; originally, the game was announced for a Christmas 2008 release. Judging from what Square Enix says, it will be worth the added wait. Just Cause 2 features over 1000Km (400miles) of South East Asian island landscape in "one of the richest, most realistic game worlds ever seen." Terrain includes snow-capped mountains, beaches, dense jungle and arid deserts.

Now as long as there's a great game that takes place in all that open-world space, we're all set. I don't know about you, but I would rather play a game that takes place in a "linear world" but has an awesome story and exciting gameplay than play a game with minimal story but a huge map.

Of course, in a perfect game, a big, interesting map and exciting story co-exist in awesomeness-- Fallout 3  did it perfectly -- so let's hope Just Cause 2 can hit that sweet spot.

Check out this brand new gallery of pretty, pretty screenshots!