Love and Deepspace Backlash Results in Permanent Cancellation of New Romance

Just eight days after unveiling their newest love interest, the development team behind the hit otome title Love and Deepspace has officially pulled the plug on the character. Valko, slated to be the sixth romantic lead in the gacha game from Papergames—the studio also behind Infinity Nikki—faced immediate, overwhelming opposition from the community, prompting the studio to scrap the project entirely.

<p>Valko’s debut in a trailer on June 22 introduced him as the enigmatic EonCore Tech chairman and a leader within the werewolf clan, with an initial launch window set for Version 6.0 on July 9. He was poised to be the first addition to the game's roster since Caleb’s arrival in January 2025. However, the reception was far from warm.</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/LoveAndDeepspace/comments/1uclgq5/how_come_people_arent_happy_with_valko/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">backlash</a> was largely driven by a segment of the player base who felt that introducing a new character was ill-timed, especially given the perceived neglect of the existing cast. Players feared that focusing on new arrivals would result in less substantial content for their long-standing favorites. In the wake of the announcement, the game’s social media channels saw a sharp decline in followers and an influx of critical feedback. In a more extreme display of frustration, some vocal protesters reportedly resorted to leaving cow dung in company lockers.</p>

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<p>In response to this intense public outcry, Papergames and publisher Infold Games <a href="https://x.com/Love_Deepspace/status/2071927369653485756" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">formally announced that Valko’s development has been permanently halted</a>. The developers issued an apology, stating: "Our actions caused distress where there should have been joy in Linkon City, and hurt the feelings you hold most dear. We are deeply sorry for the disappointment we have caused."</p>

<p>Beyond canceling the character, the studio has promised to cease the introduction of any further new love interests. While this might seem counterintuitive for a game driven by character expansion, it appears to be a strategic pivot to address fan concerns regarding the lack of meaningful updates for the existing cast. This decision signals a renewed commitment to deepening the narrative arcs for the characters players already know and love.</p>

<p>The studio is now pivoting toward compensation and upcoming content. While Valko is gone, all other Version 6.0 features remain on schedule. Players will be gifted the cosmetic items, poses, and the "Nighthush Box"—originally intended as event rewards—at no cost. Additionally, fans will receive a daily "Deepspace Wish" for the next month to use on the game's gacha system.</p>

<blockquote>
    <p>Looking ahead, Rafayel's new Solar-Slot Memories and Companion are set for release in July. Furthermore, fans can look forward to the return of Farspace Colonel Caleb and Onychinus Leader Sylus, whose main story branches will arrive in September and November, respectively.</p>
</blockquote>

<p><em>Love and Deepspace</em> is currently available on Android and iOS, with the Version 6.0 update launching on July 9.</p>

Source: Polygon