Deadlock Dev Flow Revamped Amid Market Shift

Deadlock, Valve's MOBA-shooter, has seen a significant player decline, with peak online counts now under 20,000. In response, Valve has announced a revised development strategy.

The previously bi-weekly update schedule is being scrapped in favor of a more flexible approach. Major updates will no longer adhere to a fixed timeline, allowing developers more time for thorough testing and implementation. This shift, according to a developer, will result in more substantial and polished updates. Regular hotfixes will, however, continue to address urgent issues.

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The developers acknowledged the benefits of the previous two-week cycle, but noted insufficient time for adequate testing and integration of changes. This prompted the strategic change. The game's player base has plummeted from over 170,000 concurrent players at its peak to a current range of 18,000-20,000.

Despite the player drop-off, Valve assures fans that the game isn't in jeopardy. Deadlock remains in early access, with no release date set. The extended development timeline, coupled with the potential prioritization of the seemingly green-lit new Half-Life project, suggests a release is unlikely in the near future.

Valve's focus remains on delivering a high-quality experience. The company believes a polished product will naturally attract and retain players, justifying the altered development pace. This strategy mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's update cycle, suggesting a similar long-term approach for Deadlock. Therefore, there's no immediate cause for alarm among fans.