Deadlock's player base has significantly shrunk, with peak concurrent players now under 20,000. In response, Valve is altering its development approach.
Valve will adjust the Deadlock update schedule, moving away from a fixed bi-weekly release cycle. This change, according to a developer, will allow for more substantial updates and improved development processes. While major updates will no longer adhere to a strict timeline, regular hotfixes will continue as needed.
Image: discord.gg
The previous bi-weekly update schedule, while helpful, proved insufficient for thorough testing and implementation of changes. This prompted the strategic shift. Deadlock's player count has plummeted from over 170,000 concurrent players at its peak to a current range of 18,000–20,000.
Despite the decline, the game's future isn't necessarily bleak. Deadlock, still in early development with no release date, is unlikely to launch in 2025, especially considering Valve's apparent focus on a new Half-Life title.
Valve's revised strategy prioritizes quality over speed, aiming for a polished final product. The company's belief is that a satisfied player base will naturally generate revenue. This approach mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's update cycle, suggesting a calculated, rather than concerning, adjustment.