imageK2 Network announced today that it has launched an expansion for its epic Age of Exploration MMORPG Sword of the New World: Granado Espada. The new expansion is entitled Manifest Destiny; a name that was proposed by the game's own community. The expansion offers five new characters, two new maps and five new zones as well as new events and additions to the game's item store.

In 2007, Sword of the New World: Granado Espada players were included in the process of naming the expansion and the Halian Family from the game's Orpesia World proposed the eventual winner: Manifest Destiny.

"We feel that this name perfectly encompasses all of the aspect of the expansion," said Philip Maurer, Associate Producer at K2 Network. "As Pioneers will be exploring further West in this expansion, claiming the new lands "Manifest Destiny" puts a real spin on the continuing storyline as the Crown and the Republic begin to lay claim to lands that seem to be occupied by other inhabitants. As the story moves westward it will become clear, that this land was put here by providence and it is up to the Pioneers, to take it."

New Characters
The expansion brings with it five new UPC (unique playable characters), with three of these characters immediately available on launch day: Soso, Angie and Viki.

Soso is a girl who has traveled to Granado Espada from the far away lands east of Ciam. She is highly skilled in the martial arts and is eager to join the ranks of any family adventuring through the New World. Angie is the niece of Jack, the Overseerer of the Reboldoeux Quarry. Like her uncle she is skilled in the use of the Construction stance. She has just arrived in the New World and already has a problem that can only be solved with the help of brave pioneers. Viki is a little boy from El Tejado Verde who is sick, but with your help he becomes a powerful ally who can summon some of the strongest monsters in Granado Espada to fight for him. With his help Pioneers will be ready to tackle the wilds of the New World.

New Maps and Zones
The expansion also comes with two new Maps with and fifteen new zones including: Gigante Island, this recently discovered island paradise off the coast of Coimbra. The perfect holiday destination for any tired Pioneer, Gigante Island offers games, fun and battle all in one tropical spot! Also, Andre, the famous fashion designer, has just released his new beachwear line: Andre's Dolce & Granado!

imageNew Events, Elections and Item Store Items
The expansion brings new events including Faction Wars, Elections and Andre's Ultimately Fabulous Competition!

Faction Wars pits player against player and Clan against Clan in this mad frenzy to claim the lands of Granado Espada. The Faction that gains the most 'Colonies' will be awarded the power to rule and levy taxes on other players. Also once a month players can make their voices heard by appointing the Leader of each Faction and the Ruler of the New World.

Andre's Ultimately Fabulous Competition is also all the rage. Gamers can experience what happens when End Game Raiding meets End Game PvP! This out of control 2 hour battle royale happens three times a day and no one will want to be left out!

Finally, the expansion will bring a whole host of new items to the item store including new UPC costumes, new back costumes with buffs and a new item that assists players who are upgrading their items by guaranteeing they won't be destroyed in the process.

Sword of the New World: Granado Espada is available under K2 Network's Free2Play model where players can explore and enjoy most of the game areas at no cost. Gamers who upgrade to one of the premium editions with the Pay2Play model also have the option to access enhanced game play, including extensive in-game events, new items and unlimited customer support.For more information or to download and play the game visit www.swordofthenewworld.com.