Valve Alters Deadlock Dev Process Amid Online Dip

Deadlock's player count has plummeted, prompting Valve to revamp its development strategy. The game's peak concurrent players now hover around 18,000-20,000, a significant drop from its previous high of over 170,000.

In response to this decline, Valve will adjust its update schedule. Instead of the previous bi-weekly release cycle, Deadlock patches will now be released on a flexible timeline. This change, according to developers, allows for more thorough testing and implementation of updates, resulting in more substantial and polished releases. Regular hotfixes will still be deployed as needed.

Image: discord.gg

The developers acknowledged that the previous two-week update cycle, while beneficial, didn't allow sufficient time for proper testing and integration of changes. This shift in strategy aims to address this issue.

Despite the reduced player base, Valve assures players that Deadlock is not in jeopardy. The game remains in early access, with no release date currently set. The developers emphasize their commitment to quality over speed, prioritizing a polished final product. The slower development pace may also be influenced by internal prioritization of other projects, such as the rumored new Half-Life game. Valve's approach mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's development cycle, suggesting a long-term commitment to Deadlock's success.