Total War: Rome 2 adds in-game likeness of recently departed fan

Developer The Creative Assembly has immortalized one of its fans in Total War: Rome 2, a 24-year-old player named James who passed away from liver cancer shortly after previewing the game last summer, reports Eurogamer.

James' visit to the studio's U.K. headquarters last July was organized by national charity Willow Foundation, an organization that arranges special wish-fulfillment days for people suffering from terminal illness. James became first non-industry individual to play Rome 2. In addition to testing the game and touring the studio, James was re-created in the game as a Roman soldier character for the Siege of Carthage section.

According to Total War community manager Craig Laycock, studio staff were "moved and humbled" by James' visit, offering assistance in organizing his time at the studio.

"James was remarkable on the day," Laycock told Eurogamer. "His enthusiasm knew no bounds. He asked passionate questions and offered clear and concise suggestions on features for the game."

News of James death was "devastating," said Laycock, but his time at the studio and passion for Total War will never be forgotten by The Creative Assembly staff.

"Although he won't get the chance to see Rome 2 released, he will live on in some small way in our game - and every time I see him I'll be reminded of what a great guy he was," he added. "In many ways, James represented what's best about working in video games: crafting games that people enjoy and that stay with them. It's why we all do what we do, and why we're so passionate about it. He really brought that home to us."

Total War: Rome 2 is slated to launch later this year for Windows PC.