Publisher Paradox Interactive and developer Harebrained Schemes announced that Battletech has been delayed to early 2018. The tactical strategy game was initially planned for release near the end of this year. It’s coming to Windows, Mac, and Linux.
“Throughout development our Backers have been clear: ‘Don’t rush it, just make it great.’ and we have taken that advice to heart,” said Jordan Weisman, CEO of Harebrained Schemes and creator of BattleTech. “HBS, Paradox, and our Backers all share a deeply personal attachment to this project and we are committed to delivering a game that not only meets the high expectations of our Backers and fans but introduces BattleTech to a new generation of players.”
“The feedback and enthusiasm from Beta participants has shown us just how great BattleTech can be, and rushing development to fit a timeline would be a disservice,” said Fredrik Wester, CEO of Paradox Interactive. “We believe in the Harebrained Schemes team, and want them to give the game the time and attention they need to create a turn-based game worthy of the name.”
BattleTech is currently hosting a Kickstarter Backers-only closed beta. A new update is hitting this week with various improvements based on feedback, with PVP coming soon. The Backer Beta will last for another month. Interested mech fans can become a Late Backer by pre-ordering the game and gaining access. You’ll have to pre-order the $60 version to gain beta access, however.
Harebrained Schemes launched the Kickstarter campaign for BattleTech in 2015. They raised over $2.7 million from over 41,000 backers. Harebrained Schemes’ Weisman is the original creator of the tabletop games and MechWarrior series. BattleTech was originally planned for an early 2017 release. Harebrained Schemes has since partnered with Paradox to help publish BattleTech.
Harebrained Schemes previously found indie success on Kickstarter by reviving the Shadowrun brand. Three Shadowrun titles were released over the last several years, all of which I can personally recommend.
BattleTech should arrive early 2018 for PC (Windows, Mac, Linux). A specific release date has not yet been given.
