1
general::
Phrase(s): at this stage (of the game)
Fig. at the current point in some event or situation; currently. • We’ll have to wait and see. There isn’t much we can do at this stage of the game. • At this stage, we are better off not calling the doctor.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Also, at this or that stage of the game. At this (that) step, phase, or position in a process or activity, as in I'm not sure if you can help at this stage, but perhaps you can pitch in later, or I don't need an assistant at this stage of the game. The variant uses game in the sense of "a particular process or activity." [Early 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms