In an exciting move for independent developers, Paradox Interactive this week announced that is has partnered with GamersGate to release its Europa engine (used in titles such as Europa Universalis) to indie devs free of charge.

"Through GamersGate, creative gamers worldwide will e given access to a development tool that will allow them to fulfill their game developer ambitions while getting access to a global distribution network without the costs and risks that are normally involved in game development and distribution, said CEO of Paradox Interactive Theodore Bergquist.