Valve continues to keep the Deadlock community on its toes with regular updates that fine-tune the game's balance and enhance gameplay. The latest update, though small, has made significant changes to four heroes, signaling Valve's ongoing commitment to evolving the game.
Calico has taken a major hit with this update. Her Return to Shadows ability has been considerably nerfed, with the cooldown increased by ten seconds and 20% of the speed shifted to T2. Additionally, the damage output of her T2 Leaping Slash has been reduced, impacting her overall effectiveness in combat.
Sinclair, on the other hand, has seen some exciting enhancements. His sounds and animations have been updated, adding a fresh feel to his gameplay. Moreover, his Rabbit Hex ability has been transformed into an Area of Effect (AoE) skill, broadening its impact on the battlefield. Meanwhile, both Holliday and Wraith have faced nerfs, adjusting their power levels to maintain game balance.
The update didn't stop at hero adjustments. Items have also been tweaked: Ammo Scavenger now provides fewer stacks and no longer offers a health bonus. Similarly, Extra Stamina and Restorative Shot have lost their bonuses to Fire Rate and Weapon Damage, respectively, requiring players to rethink their strategies and item choices.
Image: playdeadlock.com
This marks the fifth Deadlock update in 2025 and the first for February. Valve has shifted its approach to game development, moving away from a fixed patch schedule to a more dynamic model where updates are released as needed. Today's update is a testament to this new strategy, ensuring that Deadlock remains a dynamic and evolving gaming experience.