Well after along time in development Freelancer has gone Gold!

Microsoft Game Studios today announced that Freelancer has gone gold and is scheduled to ship to stores on March 4 in North America. Would-be naval heroes and bounty hunters alike will soon get the chance to plunge into the intricate Freelancer universe, where players will face an unknown menace and the mysteries of the Sirius System.

Set in the outer reaches of the planetary system, Freelancer combines the action of 3-D space combat, the exploration of a dynamic, living universe and trading in a rich galactic economy, where players' decisions drive the adventure. Developed by Digital Anvil, the epic adventure challenges players to determine their own reputations and choose their own distinctive styles of play. Players can choose to act like police officers, traders, pirates or explorers for different gameplay experiences. The open-ended style of gameplay gives gamers a choice between following a linear storyline or determining how the story will unfold. The multiplayer component enables players around the globe with their own servers to fly missions or explore space together. An enhanced mouse and keyboard interface simulates the realistic feel of flying a spaceship while making the game accessible to a wide range of gamers. For more information about Freelancer, visit the official site at http://www.microsoft.com/games/freelancer/.

As stated above in press release it's going to be released on the 14th of March in the US, Hopefully Australian won't be too far behind and it's been about time for a Space Sim to be released!