Summary
- In 2025, Valve will transition Deadlock updates to a less frequent, larger-scale release schedule.
- The recent winter update, featuring unique changes, foreshadows future limited-time events.
- An official release date remains unannounced.
Despite consistent updates throughout 2024, Valve plans to adjust Deadlock's update cadence in 2025. The current two-week cycle hinders internal iteration and prevents sufficient time for external adjustments before subsequent updates. While this may disappoint some, it signifies larger, more impactful updates.
Initially released on Steam in early 2024 following online leaks, Valve's free-to-play MOBA, Deadlock, has quickly established itself in the competitive hero-shooter landscape, even rivaling the popular Marvel Rivals. Its distinctive steampunk aesthetic and signature Valve polish have contributed to its success. However, to optimize development, update frequency will decrease.
According to PCGamesN, Valve developer Yoshi announced on the official Deadlock Discord that 2025 will see less frequent, but significantly larger updates. The previous two-week update cycle proved less efficient for internal development and external player feedback. This shift means fewer, but more substantial updates, essentially treating them as major events rather than minor hotfixes.
Valve Says It's Slowing Down Deadlock Updates
Deadlock's recent holiday winter update offered a refreshing change from the year's balance patches, hinting at future limited-time events. Following a likely similar live-service model to its competitors, Deadlock will continue to feature these events. Yoshi confirmed that future major patches will be larger and less frequent, while hotfixes will continue as needed.
Currently boasting 22 playable characters, ranging from tanks to flankers, Deadlock also offers eight additional heroes in its Hero Labs mode. Despite its unofficial release status, Deadlock has garnered acclaim for its character diversity and innovative anti-cheat measures. While a release date remains unconfirmed, further Deadlock news is expected in 2025.
