Catalyst Game Labs Navigates Tariff Storm: Price Hikes and a Plea for Support

The ripple effects of recent import tariffs continue to be felt across the tabletop gaming industry. The latest to announce adjustments is Catalyst Game Labs, the publisher behind beloved franchises like BattleTech and Shadowrun. The company has revealed price increases on its non-book products, a direct consequence of unexpected and substantial import taxes.

Catalyst Game Labs disclosed that it was hit with a staggering $240,000 in unforeseen import taxes in March alone, levied on products that were already in transit when the tariffs were initially announced. This significant financial blow, coupled with the ongoing 30% tariff on imports, has necessitated a strategic shift in pricing to maintain operational viability.

Here’s a breakdown of the announced price changes:

• Forcepacks and Box Sets: These popular BattleTech and other boxed products will see a $5 increase.
• Salvage Box Products: These smaller, often randomized collectible items will go up by $1.

Notably, Sourcebooks will remain unaffected for now. This is due to current rulings on RPG books, such as those for the Shadowrun RPG, which have provided some exemption from these tariffs. This offers a small silver lining for fans of Catalyst’s extensive lore and campaign materials.

In their official announcement, Catalyst Game Labs elaborated on the financial impact, stating that a 30% tariff necessitates approximately a 10% increase in MSRP to cover the elevated costs moving forward. This transparent explanation helps consumers understand the direct link between the tariffs and the adjustments they’ll see on store shelves.

Looking ahead, Catalyst Game Labs is not merely reacting but actively planning for various future scenarios. The company is developing contingency plans that range from the complete removal of tariffs to the grim possibility of even higher import taxes in the coming months. This proactive approach underscores the uncertainty and volatility currently plaguing the import-reliant sectors of the gaming industry.

Despite the financial turmoil and the challenges posed by these erratic trade policies, Catalyst CEO Loren Coleman shared a message of resilience and community. “Things may change, but the gaming industry will endure,” he wrote, emphasizing the enduring spirit of the hobby and its flagship titles. He also extended a heartfelt plea for understanding and support from the community: “BattleTech and Shadowrun will endure. If you can spare a kind word of support for your local game stores or your favorite publishers, then yeah, do that too! Nothing means as much to us as hearing kind, supportive words from our customers.”

This sentiment resonates deeply, reminding us that behind every game are passionate creators and dedicated teams facing real-world economic pressures. As consumers, our continued support for local game stores and publishers, both through purchases and encouraging words, plays a vital role in helping the industry navigate these turbulent times. While the price increases are an undeniable consequence of the tariffs, Catalyst Game Labs’ transparency and determination to keep their beloved games available offer a glimmer of hope for the future.