The unique sim-building MMO Cities XL is confirmed to launch in North America on October 9, 2009, according to an announcement posted yesterday on the official website. Developed by the European video game company Monte Cristo, Cities XL aims to be the world's first MMOCBG, or "Massively Multiplayer Online City Building Game." For more information, check out our beta preview of the game, published back in June.

The headline "hitting shelves" isn't quite accurate, because the game will initially be offered via mail-order or direct download. By visiting the official website, you can order the "boxed version covering USA and Canada" with no shipping charge, or download the client directly. Monte Cristo says the game client will also be available at Steam, Direct2Drive, Trygames, Impulsedriven and Gametap, and to check back with the website for "more info on special promotions" up until the release date.