Valve's enigmatic new shooter, Deadlock, finally has a Steam page. This article explores the recent lifting of restrictions, the game's impressive beta statistics, gameplay details, and the controversial approach Valve is taking that's generating considerable discussion.
Deadlock Emerges from the Shadows
Valve has officially acknowledged Deadlock, its highly anticipated MOBA shooter. The weekend saw the game's Steam page launch, confirming its existence after a period of intense speculation fueled by leaks. The closed beta reached a peak of 89,203 concurrent players, a significant jump from the previous high of 44,512 on August 18th.
Previously cloaked in secrecy, Deadlock's information was limited to whispers and speculation. Valve's initial tight-lipped approach has shifted, with public discussion now permitted. Streaming, community forums, and general conversations about the game are no longer restricted. However, it's crucial to remember that Deadlock remains invite-only and is in its early stages of development, featuring placeholder art and experimental mechanics.
A MOBA Shooter Hybrid
Deadlock blends MOBA and shooter elements, according to The Verge. The 6v6 gameplay, reminiscent of Overwatch, involves pushing lanes while managing NPC units. This creates a dynamic battlefield where player heroes and AI allies are equally important.
Fast-paced matches demand a balance between commanding Troopers and direct combat. Frequent Trooper respawns, continuous wave-based battles, strategic ability use, and upgrades are core mechanics. The game emphasizes teamwork and tactical depth, with varied combat styles and movement options like sliding, dashing, and zip-lining. Twenty unique heroes, each with distinct abilities, further enhance strategic options and encourage experimentation.
Valve's Steam Store Standards Controversy
Ironically, Valve seems to be deviating from its own Steam Store guidelines for Deadlock. The page currently features only a single teaser video, falling short of the required five screenshots. This inconsistency has drawn criticism, with some arguing that Valve, as a Steamworks partner, should uphold the same standards it sets for other developers. This isn't the first time Valve's practices have been questioned; a similar debate arose during a 2024 sale of The Orange Box. 3DGlyptics, the publisher of B.C. Piezophile, highlights this as an example of Valve undermining Steam's policy consistency.
However, Valve's dual role as developer and platform owner complicates the situation, potentially bypassing traditional enforcement. The future will reveal how, or if, Valve addresses this apparent discrepancy.