Valve Planning to Slow Down Deadlock Updates

Summary

• In 2025, Valve will release fewer, but larger and more impactful updates for Deadlock.
• The recent winter update, featuring unique changes, hints at future limited-time events.
• An official release date remains unannounced.

Despite consistently updating Deadlock throughout 2024, Valve plans to adjust its update strategy in 2025. The current two-week update cycle hinders internal iteration and prevents sufficient time for external feedback before the next update. This shift means fewer, but more substantial updates, offering a more impactful experience for players.

Initially released on Steam in early 2024 following leaked gameplay, Valve's free-to-play MOBA, Deadlock, has quickly gained popularity in the competitive hero-shooter market, even rivaling the immensely popular Marvel Rivals. Its unique steampunk aesthetic and signature Valve polish have set it apart. While significant changes occurred throughout 2024, Valve aims to reduce update frequency in 2025.

According to PCGamesN, Valve developer Yoshi explained on the official Deadlock Discord that the 2025 update schedule will change to improve the development process. The previous two-week cycle proved challenging for internal development and external feedback. This change means larger, less frequent updates, essentially transforming them into significant events rather than small hotfixes.

Valve Slows Down Deadlock Updates

Deadlock's recent holiday winter update provided a refreshing change from the year's balance adjustments. Following a likely similar live service model to its competitors, Deadlock will probably continue to feature limited-time events and special modes. Yoshi confirmed that future major patches will be larger but less frequent, with hotfixes still released as needed.

Deadlock currently boasts 22 playable characters, ranging from tanks to flankers, with an additional 8 available in Hero Labs mode. Despite its unofficial release status, Deadlock has garnered praise for its character variety, creative design, and unique anti-cheat measures. While an official release date remains unconfirmed, further news is expected in 2025.