Valve Alters Deadlock Development in Digital Shift

Deadlock, Valve's MOBA-shooter, has seen a significant player decline, with peak concurrent players now under 20,000. In response, Valve is adjusting its development strategy.

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Previously adhering to a bi-weekly update schedule, Valve has opted for a more flexible approach. Major updates will no longer follow a rigid timeline, allowing developers more time for thorough implementation and testing. This shift aims to deliver more substantial, higher-quality updates, while hotfixes will continue to address urgent issues. A developer confirmed this change, highlighting the need for more development time to ensure updates function optimally.

Deadlock's player count has plummeted from over 170,000 concurrent players at its peak to a current range of 18,000-20,000. However, this doesn't necessarily signal the game's failure. Still in early access with no release date, the game's development is prioritized over immediate release. With a potential new Half-Life game also in the works, a 2025 or later release is highly probable.

Valve's focus remains on delivering a polished product, believing that a high-quality experience will organically attract and retain players. This strategic shift mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's update schedule, suggesting a deliberate and considered approach rather than a sign of trouble. The change prioritizes developer efficiency and the creation of a superior gaming experience.