Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock, the esteemed tactical game developed by Black Lab Games, is set to be removed from Steam and all other platforms on November 15. The announcement from publisher Slitherine indicates that both the game and its expansions will be “phased out” from sale, marking a significant moment for fans of the franchise. Slitherine emphasized the importance of this notice, encouraging players to seize the opportunity to purchase the game before its availability ceases.
Game Highlights
Deadlock, which immerses players in the First Cylon War, stands out for its unique combat mechanics. Players engage in simultaneous encounters, requiring them to anticipate enemy movements by queuing orders and observing the outcomes. This innovative approach to strategy has garnered a dedicated following since its release in 2017, making it a noteworthy title for enthusiasts of tactical gameplay and space battles.
While the timing of Deadlock’s delisting coincides with the upcoming release of Valve’s multiplayer shooter, there is no suggestion of any underlying conspiracy. Instead, it presents an intriguing juxtaposition within the gaming landscape. For those who appreciate tactical strategy games or the thrill of massive spaceships in combat, Deadlock remains a compelling choice until its final day of sale.
Although our review team did not formally assess Deadlock, Len Hafer’s impressions upon its release highlighted its ability to capture the essence of the acclaimed 2004 television series. He remarked on the chaotic nature of the game, where “there is no such thing as getting out of a fight clean,” reflecting the ongoing struggles faced by the colonial military amidst the turmoil of war.
Slitherine has previously delisted other titles this year, including two Warhammer 40,000 games—Armageddon and Sanctus Reach—though those remain available on GOG. In contrast, Deadlock will be entirely removed from all storefronts, leaving fans with a sense of loss as they bid farewell to this beloved title.
Yet, hope persists for Battlestar Galactica aficionados, as a new game titled Battlestar Galactica: Scattered Hopes is slated for release early next year. This upcoming title diverges from Deadlock’s format, presenting a tactical roguelike experience where players navigate between planets and command fleets in real-time battles. The objective shifts from winning to buying time for the fleet to calculate an FTL jump to the next sector, echoing the tension of the series’ acclaimed first episode, “33.” Whether this new direction will satisfy fans in place of Deadlock remains to be seen.
