How is The Deal going to affect NG+1 and NG+X times, and how quickly? I know it's going to affect NG+1 a lot faster, because the risk is so small in comparison to, say, NG+16, but the 3x damage and 2x health has got to be worth it for runners. Also, is taking The Deal going to be a side category, or is not taking it going to become the side category (at least for NG+1)?

Well, I have my answer. It's in the category extensions, in its own category.