Amid an online decline, Valve changes the development flow for Deadlock

Deadlock, the MOBA-shooter from Valve, has seen a significant player count decline, with peak online numbers now hovering around 18,000-20,000 players—a far cry from its initial peak exceeding 170,000. In response to this, Valve has announced a strategic shift in its development approach.

Instead of the previously implemented bi-weekly update schedule, Deadlock will now receive major updates on a flexible, non-fixed timeline. This change, according to a developer, will allow for more thorough development and testing, resulting in more substantial and polished updates. Regular hotfixes will continue to address critical issues as needed.

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The developers acknowledge that the previous two-week update cycle, while useful, didn't provide sufficient time for comprehensive implementation and testing of changes. This prompted the decision to move to a more flexible system prioritizing quality over frequency.

While the player count drop is notable, it's important to remember Deadlock remains in early access. The game doesn't yet have a release date, and given the apparent internal green light for a new Half-Life title, a 2025 or even 2026 release seems unlikely.

Valve's adjusted strategy reflects a commitment to delivering a high-quality product. The company's approach prioritizes creating a satisfying player experience, believing that a well-received game will naturally attract and retain players. This measured approach mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's development cycle, suggesting a deliberate and informed decision rather than a sign of trouble. There's no immediate cause for concern regarding the game's future.