Deadlock has just announced a significant update that promises to reshape the game's core mechanics. Dive in to discover how these changes will affect your gameplay and what else is new in Deadlock's world.
Deadlock Announces Major Update
Four-lane Map Becomes Three Lanes
Deadlock's latest major update, announced on February 26, 2025, via a Steam post by Valve, transforms the game's map from four lanes to three. This change aims to simplify the map structure and enhance other game features. Alongside this significant alteration, the update includes "a large range of accompanying map-wide changes regarding visuals, building layouts, pathways, neutral camps, air vents, breakables, powerup buffs, juke spots, mid boss, etc." Deadlock, known for its unique third-person perspective in the MOBA genre, had previously experimented with a four-lane map, which may have added complexity to the gameplay.
Moreover, the update introduces changes to farming mechanics, making it easier for players to summon Soul Orbs without the need to last-hit enemy troopers, especially during the early laning phases. The patch notes also highlight improvements in the game's netcode and client performance, promising a smoother gaming experience.
Vital Update for Deadlock
This update could be the key to revitalizing Deadlock's player base. After reaching an all-time peak of 171,490 active players in September 2024, the game experienced a 90% drop in player count, with only around 17,000 players active this past month.
Valve Developer Yoshi shared insights on Deadlock's Discord server in January 2025, explaining the shift in their update schedule. He noted, "Going forward, major patches will no longer be on a fixed schedule. These patches will be larger than before, albeit a little bit more spaced out, and hotfixes will continue to be released as needed. We look forward to fleshing out the game in the new year."
Currently, Deadlock is in active development and playtesting, accessible only through friend invites. No official release date has been announced yet. For more details on Deadlock, be sure to visit our dedicated page.
