The recent Blade Runner 2049 crossover event in the otome game Love and Deepspace has drawn the attention of players, not just for its unexpected premise, but for striking similarities between a key storyline and the game's canceled character, Valko. The crossover, which began today and runs until November 5, introduces elements inspired by the Blade Runner universe, including an AI companion named Joi who shares narrative parallels with the character Valko.
Fans have pointed out that the plot involving Joi, an AI companion to the game's protagonist K, mirrors the narrative arc of Valko. In Blade Runner 2049, Joi is lost when the device enabling her presence is destroyed. Similarly, players of Love and Deepspace recall that Valko, who was revealed as the game's sixth love interest, was canceled by developer Infold just one week after his introduction. This cancellation left players attached to the character without resolution, a situation many now compare to K's loss of Joi.
Adding to the discussion, some players suggested that a Blade Runner 2049 crossover would have been a fitting vehicle for Valko, given his described background as a tech CEO and hacker. The unusual nature of this crossover for the Love and Deepspace universe has further fueled speculation among the player base.
Despite Valko's cancellation, there remains significant player support for his potential return. This support has been demonstrated through social media activity, participation in real-world events, and organized actions such as boycotts and petitions. Players have also engaged in tribute activities, including donations to wolf sanctuaries, sponsoring forests, commissioning billboards, and establishing memorials. Infold has not issued any official statements regarding Valko since the initial cancellation announcement.
The Blade Runner 2049 event is expected to be part of a promotional campaign for the upcoming Amazon Prime series, Blade Runner 2099, scheduled for release on November 25. The in-game event offers free rewards inspired by the film for participants.