Paradox Interactive and Harebrained Schemes announced today that the upcoming strategy game BattleTech has a new release window.

We'll be able to get our hands on the new conflict among mech in early 2018.

The game was originally going to be released this year after a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $2,865,422 including additional funding via PayPal.

In order to help fans with the wait, the backer beta is going to be updated this week to include gameplay changes, AI upgrades, balance changes, and interface enhancement. Another update coming soon will add PvP multiplayer, until the end of the beta testing a month from now.

Harebrained Schemes CEO Jordan Weisman explained the move with a comment included in the press release:

“Throughout development our Backers have been clear: ‘Don’t rush it, just make it great.’ and we have taken that advice to heart.  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.”

Paradox Interactive CEO Fredrik Wester also commented:

“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. 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."

If you want to see more about BattleTech (which is coming for PC), you can check out some spiffy gameplay from the beta, and a recent trailer released to seal the publising deal between Harebrained and Paradox back in May.