Valve Delays Deadlock Updates

Deadlock Update Schedule Shifting in 2025

Valve has announced a change to its Deadlock update strategy for 2025, prioritizing larger, less frequent patches over the consistent bi-weekly updates of 2024. This decision, communicated via the official Deadlock Discord, aims to streamline the development process and allow more time for internal iteration and external player feedback.

While this might disappoint players accustomed to the constant stream of updates, Valve assures that future updates will be more substantial and event-driven, offering more significant gameplay changes. The recent winter update, featuring unique alterations, serves as a preview of this new approach. The shift will involve less frequent major patches, but hotfixes will continue as needed.

Deadlock, Valve's free-to-play MOBA, launched earlier in 2024 and has quickly gained traction in the hero-shooter market, even competing with titles like Marvel Rivals. Its unique steampunk aesthetic and polished gameplay have contributed to its success. The game currently boasts 22 playable characters, expandable to 30 with the addition of Hero Labs characters, and a novel anti-cheat system.

The shift in update frequency doesn't signal a slowdown in development. Valve anticipates continued support for Deadlock in 2025, including potential limited-time events and game modes, mirroring the live-service models of similar titles. While a firm release date remains unannounced, further news and updates are expected throughout the year.