BioWare’s flagship fantasy RPG franchise is receiving the sequel treatment later this year. EA confirmed today that Dragon Age 2 is in development and currently slated for a March 2011 debut.

According to the press release that hit our inbox earlier this morning, BioWare’s latest effort is poised to infuse the mythology-rich background of Dragon Age with “more action, more responsive combat system, and a dynamic story that is already among the most multifaceted in gaming.” Set amid a plot that spans ten years, the title chronicles the rise to power of Hawke, a survivor of the Blight outbreak.

BioWare’s trademark decision making mechanics will make a return as players are tasked with “making tough moral choices, gathering the deadliest of allies, amassing fame and fortune, and sealing their place in history.”

Also touted is “a whole realm rendered in stunning detail with updated graphics and a new visual style.”

Hit this image for a tentative box art shot. We’ve also included two pieces of “conceptual artwork” that were sent along with the initial announcement below.

Follow this author on Twitter.

Read more: Dragon Age III In Development,  Dragon Age 2 Community Review: Can it back up the hype?,  Dragon Age 2 Breaks 1 Million Copies Sold, BioWare Offers Up Incentive for Purchases,  Fable III Announced,  Mass Effect 2 Prelude To E3 Trailer