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BATTLETECH will only be coming to Linux post-launch, along with other features

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The turn-based mech strategy game developed by Harebrained Schemes won’t be on Linux at launch later this year. Other features have also been cut or altered and will be making into the game post-release.

In the latest backer update developer Harebrained Schemes have shared some notes about the current state of BATTLETECH [Official Site] and their plans going forward. They haven’t put out a firm release date for the game yet but they’ve gone ahead and stated what they have already cut from their intended release version. Sadly, this means that Linux won’t be there day-1.

I’m not too surprised about this as, when the previous backer beta test failed to have a Linux version, I suspected that we weren’t much of a priority as a target platform. Harebrained Schemes has been good with supporting Linux in the past, with their Shadowrun titles all making it our way, so I’m confident we’ll get the game eventually. This is likely a decision made with a mind to limited developer man hours and resources. That doesn’t make it any less disappointing, especially as I’ve been a fan of the BattleTech franchise for a long time and was looking forward to seeing soon what one of the original creators, Jordan Weisman, would think up for this new game.

Other things have also been cut or altered, including having only a limited skirmish mode at launch and some of the bonus content unlocked during the Kickstarter campaign. Save for Ironman mode (one save file allowed, automatically saved), these items primarily add flavor rather than have  a fundamental impact on gameplay. Like with Linux support, it’s planned to add these things to the game somewhere down the road.

The biggest change in the announcement, however, is about how multiplayer is structured. BATTLETECH will no longer focus around competitive leagues and tournaments, instead opting for a more friends-focused approach. Personally, I’m fine with that, not really being into competitive multiplayer and I’d rather they get the basic balance just right first before potentially going down that road. They've mentioned that players on both GOG and Steam versions will be able to play friends and join public games from their game client.

I hope that whenever they announce a release date, they do us a courtesy and outline just how long Linux gamers will have to wait to get their hands on the game.

Article taken from GamingOnLinux.com.
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About the author -
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History, sci-fi, technology, cooking, writing and playing games are things I enjoy very much. I'm always keen to try different genres of games and discover all the gems out there.

Oh and the name doesn't mean anything but coincidentally could be pronounced as "Buttery" which suits me just fine.
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26 comments
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GustyGhost Jan 17, 2018
Quoting: Leopard
Quoting: GustyGhost
Quoting: Leopard
QuoteThey've mentioned that players on both GOG and Steam versions will be able to play friends and join public games from their game client.

Well , you can't on GOG version because there is no platform equality on GOG.

A general tale of warning against relying on Steam multiplayer integration. This vendor lock in trap has prevented some number of titles such as Disco Dodgeball from being brought to GOG due to complications with multiplayer compatibility.

I think you misunderstood what i was saying.

GOG version will have multiplayer but via Galaxy Client.

Since there is no Galaxy Client for Linux (available for Windows and MacOS) , you won't be able to play multi. That isn't the case with Steam though. Steam is available on Windows , Linux and MacOS.

Direct IP and/or hosted server multiplayer without going through some proprietary network == best. I am aware of "GOG Crossplay" but that is only a shoehorn to be able to comply with Valve's multiplayer framework.
tonR Jan 17, 2018
Don't want to make ANY SPECULATION here.

My heart always keeps saying if something like this happen means that "the someone" had approaches the developers. No need to say who or what or why. Most GOL readers know and past history shows.

Again, no speculation

EDIT: Silly spelling mistake. :D


Last edited by tonR on 17 January 2018 at 9:31 pm UTC
Schattenspiegel Jan 17, 2018
Sure it sucks, but for now I am still willing to give 'em the benefit of doubt.
They clearly stated Linux version along with some other promised features is planned post release and they do have a good track record of polishing and adding content to their titles after release. Let's keep the pitchfork in the barn for now (Tiki torches are in short supply anyway currently I am told) and make sure they know we definitely do want their games on Linux instead.
draxil Jan 19, 2018
Now regret kickstarting it, but HBS had a reasonable track record before this :(
slaapliedje Mar 1, 2018
Shit, I think I'd missed this article, or was so disappointed by it that I'd forgotten.

I'd received an email today regarding Battletech's pre-order. Then noticed on the page that it only shows Windows/Mac, then came here to see if an article had already been done on it, and there was an old one...

Sad days!

Also Note: they have a 'pre-order and get free shit' offer... but who wants to pre-order it without a guaranteed Linux version?
Zephar Apr 14, 2018
Quoting: SchattenspiegelSure it sucks, but for now I am still willing to give 'em the benefit of doubt.
They clearly stated Linux version along with some other promised features is planned post release and they do have a good track record of polishing and adding content to their titles after release. Let's keep the pitchfork in the barn for now (Tiki torches are in short supply anyway currently I am told) and make sure they know we definitely do want their games on Linux instead.

Yep, I am with you on this. I did back the game and they know from when ask what version I wanted it is still marked Linux and I have not played. Anyways I never back games, but HBS has had a good track record so hoping fo r the best =).
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