'Civilization 6' release date: Kingdom of Kongo revealed ahead of Oct. 21

Civilization VI, Kingdom of KongoFirarix Games/2K Games

Developer Firarix Games and publisher 2K Games have announced that the kingdom of Kongo will be included in its upcoming "Civilization IV" upon its release next month. The kingdom will be led by Mvemba a Nzinga or also known as King Alfonso I.

Fans will be able to reenact Nzinga's attempts to spread Roman Catholicism across Kongo and modernize his empire. The close ties of the king with Portuguese also helped the modernization of the country.

"Debuting in Civilization VI is the Kingdom of Kongo, led by Mvemba a Nzinga. Also called King Afonso I, Nzinga is most famous for his attempts to spread Christianity across his empire, and increased activities with Portugal in a bid to modernize the empire," the announcement said.

The kingdom of Kongo has a unique unit called Ngao Mbeba, the Shield-Bearers of the Kongolese troops. These are highly trained men that carry scimitar swords and shields that cover almost their entire body. The Portuguese army had the bad-luck of encountering them back in 1577. These special troops are well adept to in forest and rainforest, can easily repel ranged attacks and do not require iron to be produced.

Mbanza is Kongo's unique district, are large town and cities spread across the kingdom and located deep in the jungle. These provides extra housing, food and gold. They are also much bigger than most cities during the era.

The kingdom of Kongo was not a playable option during "Civilation V," and is an expansion pack for "Civiliation IV," so this is the first time that it will be playable in the main game.

The studio provided a trailer to see the kingdom of Kongo in action.

"Civilization VI" is slated for a worldwide release on Oct. 21 for the Windows PC. Pre-order is now available.