Deadlock's player count has significantly decreased, with peak online numbers now below 20,000. In response, Valve has adjusted its development approach.
Moving forward, major Deadlock updates will no longer follow a fixed schedule. This change, according to a developer, will allow for more thorough development and ultimately lead to more substantial updates. Regular hotfixes will continue as needed.
Image: discord.gg
Previously, Deadlock received bi-weekly updates. While this schedule was initially helpful, developers found it didn't allow sufficient time for proper implementation and testing of changes. This prompted the shift in strategy.
Deadlock's player base has shrunk considerably, from over 170,000 peak players to a current range of 18,000-20,000.
However, this doesn't signal the game's demise. Still in early development with no release date set, a 2025 or later launch is likely, especially considering Valve's apparent focus on a new Half-Life title.
Valve's deliberate pace prioritizes quality. The company believes a superior product will naturally attract players and revenue. This strategic adjustment mirrors Dota 2's development evolution, which also transitioned from frequent updates. Therefore, there's no immediate reason for alarm.
