Steve Jackson Games announced Tuesday that it has acquired the rights to produce a roleplaying game based on "Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri" a computer strategy game developed by FIRAXIS Games and published by Electronic Arts.

Set in the 22nd century, Alpha Centauri begins as a group of colonists sets off for the Alpha Centauri star system with the goal of saving humankind from extinction. As the ship nears its destination, a meteor strikes it, awakening the travelers from cryogenic sleep.

The ensuing chaos results in the formation of seven factions, each with differing goals and agendas. The factions crash land on a lonely planet orbiting Alpha Centauri and must begin the monumental task of survival on an alien world and of forging the future of mankind.

Players can take the role of one of the seven faction leaders, each working to further its own agenda, and all vying for control of the infant colony.

GURPS Alpha Centauri will expand upon this framework, developing the background while maintaining the fun and flexibility that have made Alpha Centauri a world-wide hit in the computer-game industry.

"It's exciting to know that people outside of the computer game industry will be able to experience the intriguing world of Alpha Centauri," said Sid Meier, chairman and director of creative development at FIRAXIS Games. "It's a deeply fun and challenging game on any platform."

GURPS Alpha Centauri is tentatively scheduled for a first quarter 2001 release.