# The Political Machine Express 2008

> 2008 video game edition

**Wikidata**: [Q123436664](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q123436664)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-political-machine-express-2008

## Summary
The Political Machine Express 2008 is a video game edition released on September 17, 2008, as part of the *The Political Machine* series. Developed by Stardock and published by Ubisoft, it serves as an enhanced version of *The Political Machine 2008*, offering bonus materials not included in the standard release. It is designed for Microsoft Windows and focuses on political simulation gameplay.

## Key Facts
- **Release Date**: September 17, 2008.
- **Developer**: Stardock, a U.S.-based software developer founded in 1991.
- **Publisher**: Ubisoft, a French video game company established in 1986.
- **Platform**: Exclusively released for Microsoft Windows.
- **Series**: Part of *The Political Machine* series, preceding *The Political Machine 2012* and following the base *The Political Machine 2008*.
- **Edition Type**: Enhanced edition with bonus content, distinct from the standard 2008 release.
- **Fandom Article ID**: `thepoliticalmachine:The_Political_Machine_Express_2008` (English).

## FAQs
### Q: When was The Political Machine Express 2008 released?
A: It was released on September 17, 2008, as an enhanced edition of the base game.

### Q: Who developed and published the game?
A: The game was developed by Stardock and published by Ubisoft.

### Q: How does it differ from the standard 2008 edition?
A: It includes bonus materials and enhancements not available in the standard release of *The Political Machine 2008*.

### Q: Is it part of a larger series?
A: Yes, it is the third entry in *The Political Machine* series, following the 2008 base game and preceding the 2012 installment.

## Why It Matters
The Political Machine Express 2008 holds significance as a specialized edition tailored for fans seeking expanded content within the political simulation genre. As part of a series known for blending strategy with real-world political themes, this release catered to enthusiasts by offering additional materials beyond the standard game. Published by Ubisoft, a major industry player, it leveraged the studio’s distribution reach while maintaining Stardock’s development focus on niche audiences. The game’s timing in 2008 also aligned with real-world political events, potentially enhancing its appeal during a U.S. presidential election year. For collectors and completists, the Express edition represents a unique artifact within the series’ history, emphasizing the commercial strategy of releasing enhanced versions to bolster fan engagement.

## Notable For
- **Enhanced Content**: Provides bonus materials not included in the standard *The Political Machine 2008* release.
- **Series Continuity**: Serves as a bridge between the 2008 base game and the 2012 sequel, maintaining the franchise’s focus on political strategy.
- **Platform Specificity**: Exclusively developed for Microsoft Windows, reflecting Stardock’s specialization in PC software.
- **Publisher-Developer Collaboration**: Highlights Ubisoft’s role in distributing Stardock’s niche titles to broader audiences.

## Body
### Development and Publication
- **Developer**: Stardock, a U.S.-based company founded in 1991, handled development.
- **Publisher**: Ubisoft, headquartered in France, managed global distribution.
- **Release**: Launched on September 17, 2008, as an enhanced edition.

### Series Context
- **Predecessor**: Follows *The Political Machine 2008*.
- **Successor**: Precedes *The Political Machine 2012*.
- **Series Position**: Third main entry in the franchise.

### Technical Details
- **Platform**: Designed for Microsoft Windows, aligning with Stardock’s PC-focused portfolio.
- **Edition Status**: Classified as a video game edition, distinct from standard releases due to bonus content.

### Legacy
- **Fandom Documentation**: Chronicled in a dedicated Fandom wiki article (`ID: 2408`), underscoring its recognition among fans.
- **Cultural Timing**: Released during the 2008 U.S. presidential election, contextualizing its political themes.

## References

1. Fandom
2. [Source](https://thepoliticalmachine.fandom.com/wiki/The_Political_Machine_Express_2008)