Matrix Games announces HELL, a fantasy-themed turn-based strategy game built on the Battle Academy engine they expect to release later this year for Windows PCs. Though they are just taking the wraps off this, they are already preparing for beta testing, urging all who are interested to sign up through the Slitherine beta portal. There are further details on the official product section along with a bunch of screenshots, and here's word:

The mythical land of Gilrand is such a safe and quiet place that knights and paladins are drinking beers all day long in the trendiest inns of the realm. But there is no better target for the devil than a charming and peaceful place. In the darkest side of this fantasy world, subterranean legions are just waiting for one sign from their hellish leader to start a monstrous invasion. Harmonious times are over and chaos gets underway!

In HELL, a new turn-based strategy game developed using the very flexible Battle Academy engine, players will be able to lead the sacred human forces from the “Order of Light” or the infernal troops from the “Demons of Hell” faction. Every unit has a unique function on the battlefield so players will have to judiciously mix the unique abilities and specific strengths of their magic and military squads to be victorious. Diversity is the key word in HELL, and this is supported by a vast array of units, various types of terrain and environments, myriad layers of tactical options, a long story-driven campaign, and a devilish multiplayer mode with cross-platform functionality.
This fabled multiplatform tactical game is now ready to enter the beta phase on PC. And we invite players to help us test it! By signing up for the beta, players will have a chance to be selected to be one of the lucky few who will be able experience HELL before release and help us with the final touches, ensuring a smooth release on PC and iPad later this year.