Start the Strategizing on IGN announces that Hearts of Iron II is shipping to stores, and that Paradox Entertainment's World War II strategy sequel should now be available in North America. Here's a bit on the game:

Hearts of Iron II presents tons of new features including a redesigned map and interface, updated battle mechanics, re-worked technology tree, fine-tuned diplomacy and trade system as well as gameplay details like co-operative multiplayer. The game also includes, apart from the four major campaigns, battle scenarios optimized for one or two evenings of gaming, as well as different multiplayer settings.