a phrase meaning "that finishes it" or "that is the end," especially in regards to one's chances. A ballgame is any game played with a ball, such as baseball. Ballgame can be used figuratively to refer to a competitive or challenging situation, a continuing activity, or a state of affairs. The phrase there goes the oldballgame alludes to the certain end of a contest, activity, situation, etc., with no further chance of success.