Valve's MOBA Shooter 'Deadlock' Revealed

Valve's mysterious new shooter, Deadlock, finally has a Steam page. This article explores the recent revelations, including the lifting of communication restrictions, impressive beta statistics, gameplay details, and the controversial approach Valve is taking.

Deadlock Emerges from the Shadows

Valve has officially acknowledged Deadlock, a MOBA shooter that's rapidly gained traction. The weekend saw the launch of its Steam page, confirming the game's existence. The closed beta reached a peak of 89,203 concurrent players, significantly surpassing the previous high of 44,512 on August 18th.

Previously, information was limited to leaks and speculation. Valve's strict secrecy has now eased, allowing streamers, community sites, and open discussions about the game. However, it remains invite-only and in early development, featuring placeholder art and experimental mechanics.

A Unique MOBA Shooter Experience

Deadlock blends MOBA and shooter elements, creating a unique 6v6 experience. Teams battle for control, pushing back opponents while managing waves of AI-controlled units across multiple lanes. This dynamic gameplay emphasizes coordination and strategy.

Fast-paced combat necessitates a balance between commanding units and direct engagement. Frequent unit respawns, wave-based battles, and strategic use of abilities are key elements. Movement options like sliding, dashing, and zip-lining add to the tactical depth. The game boasts 20 distinct heroes, each with unique abilities, encouraging diverse team compositions.

Valve's Steam Store Standards Under Scrutiny

Ironically, Valve appears to be deviating from its own Steam Store guidelines. While typically requiring at least five screenshots, Deadlock's page currently features only a single teaser video.

This inconsistency has drawn criticism, with some arguing that Valve, as a Steamworks partner, should adhere to its own rules. This echoes similar controversies, such as the March 2024 sale of The Orange Box, where promotional stickers were initially added without adhering to guidelines. 3DGlyptics, the developer of B.C. Piezophile, has voiced concerns about Valve's actions undermining Steam's platform consistency.

However, Valve's dual role as developer and platform owner complicates the situation. The future handling of these concerns regarding Deadlock remains to be seen.