Even though they still haven't managed to get the Linux version out yet, Harebrained Schemes and Paradox Interactive have announced the FLASHPOINT expansion for BATTLETECH. As a reminder, we spoke to the developer earlier this month about the Linux version which they do hope to release soon.
Anyway…the FLASHPOINT expansion will include:
- Flashpoints - Test your command skills in a series of action-packed short stories, completing extended contracts to earn big bonuses.
- New Biome - Navigate a lush tropical beach environment, with sunny shores and just a pinch of alien flare, for good measure. Sunscreen optional.
- New BattleMechs - Get your ‘Mech on with the armor-chopping power of the Hatchetman, the speed and versatility of the Crab, and the multi-range firepower of the Cyclops.
- New Encounter - In “Target Acquisition”, you’ll put your light and medium ‘Mechs to good use by taking control of three territories on the map to prevail!
From the press release:
“Flashpoint stories give us the flexibility to design a huge variety of experiences, all with different sequences, events, challenges, decisions, rewards, etc. We’re combining core gameplay mechanics in new ways to create deeper content,” said Mitch Gitelman, BATTLETECH Game Director and co-founder of Harebrained Schemes. “These more elaborate, longer-term objectives are an awesome interactive storytelling tool, which we think BATTLETECH fans will really enjoy,” added Jordan Weisman, CEO and Creator of BattleTech.
Direct Link
I'm still damn excited to give it a go, but the delay in the Linux version is pretty annoying. As I mentioned before though, I've no doubt they've come across issues in Unity they're trying to solve like a lot of other developers putting out Linux games. A shame, but hopefully the wait will be over soon. Going by SteamDB, it does seem like the Linux version is being worked on.
Article taken from GamingOnLinux.com.
Quoting: ZaxthI can't wait for the excuse "We are unable to dedicate resources to a Linux port at this time, due to work on the new expansion" then a couple months later "We are making sure the Windows version of Battletech with our new Flashpoint expansion works best on Windows and Mac before bringing it to Linux" Much later... "Unfortunately there won't be a Linux port due to work on Battletech 2, but that will come to Linux sometime after release" And a round and round she goes.I understand the sentiment here due to the delay, I really do, but honestly I really do think they're working on it. They repeatedly say so and the Linux build is included in their current unreleased update when looking at SteamDB - so it's possible it will be out with the next patch.
I sympathise with the feelings of others who are skeptical, we have seen it before and while I still have faith, I feel developers with non day 1 Linux ports need to have a much more transparent approach to the Linux community regarding timescales and roadmaps for release. I dont expect detailed step by step blows, but a fortnightly update on major movement or blocks, or simply a blog post with screenshots from the Linux build would be enough.
Otherwise we get this vicious self fulfilling cycle where Linux Gamers get angry and bitchy to developers because no progress seems to being made, which translates to people swearing off buying game, developers then get the idea that we moan alot and dont buy games thus they drop suport in future titles.
Yes its fustrating to be what feels like a 2nd class citizen at times, and yes I beleieve it's a 2-way street Linux Gamers need to be more patient at times and give developers (who dont have a habit/track record of dropping support) the benefit of the doubt until proven otherwise, and likewise developers have to understand that delaying linux release ultimately hurts them, games drop from the forefront of peoples minds after time passes and if the game does support cross play sometimes that window closes as the game peters out before we get it.
Quoting: liamdawe…they're working on it.This phrase in itself is a running gag, isn't it?
I believe, Zaxth tried to rephrase the "Unreal Tournament 3 on Linux" story. This pattern has been around way before even "Humble Inc." started to support Linux.
Last edited by Zaxth on 21 August 2018 at 3:15 pm UTC
Schattenspiegel Aug 21, 2018
... :O ... :'( ... :'(
Think it is the case with a lot of devs, they add in third party libraries, without checking if they will work with linux. amongst the other assorted problems that can crop up.
Quoting: ZaxthI can't wait for the excuse "We are unable to dedicate resources to a Linux port at this time, due to work on the new expansion"
That's the feeling i have too...
I'd say we will have Linux at best with the expansion, not before.
And i hope i'm wrong.
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