while installing some mods using JSGME i caused the game to stop working by removing those same mods. i reinstalled but to no avail. i deleted everything under positech games in
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Positech Games\Gratuitous Space Battles
and after reinstalling, GSB did work. however, all three content packs do not, even after multiple re-installations of both the game and packs. i bought the game through impulse, if that helps.
EDIT: i found the problem and it was my own fault, i was looking in the wrong place.