Relic Entertainment's sci-fi strategy game sequel Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 2 has gone gold, publisher THQ announced today.

The game will be showing up in stores February 19, an unusual Thursday release. As recently as January 8 the game's release date was confirmed as February 23.

"Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II stays true to the fast-paced, brutal heart of the Dawn of War series, while introducing branching single-player storylines and unique unit customization," said Relic General Manager Tarrnie Williams. "The deep, tactical gameplay lets players develop and lead personalized elite units who gain experience and grow stronger with every ferocious battle."

A multiplayer beta kicks off January 28, or January 21 for Dawn of War: Soulstorm owners. With the game now gold, any changes as a result from beta feedback will have to come through a patch.