Valve to Prioritize Stability in Future Deadlock Updates

Deadlock Update Schedule Shifting in 2025

Valve has announced a change of pace for Deadlock updates in 2025, prioritizing larger, less frequent patches over the consistent smaller updates seen in 2024. This decision, communicated via the official Deadlock Discord, aims to streamline the development process and allow for more substantial content drops.

The shift follows a year of steady updates since Deadlock's surprise launch earlier in 2024. The game, a free-to-play third-person hero shooter with a distinct steampunk aesthetic, has quickly gained traction despite competition from titles like Marvel Rivals. The recent winter update, featuring unique gameplay alterations, hints at future limited-time events and a focus on larger-scale content releases.

According to developer Yoshi, the previous two-week update cycle proved challenging for internal iteration and didn't allow sufficient time for external player feedback before the next update. The new approach will see major patches released less frequently but with significantly more content. Hotfixes will continue to address urgent issues.

The winter update provided a taste of this new direction, offering a refreshing change from the year's balance adjustments. This suggests a move toward more event-driven updates, maintaining player engagement while allowing for deeper development cycles. Deadlock currently boasts 22 playable characters, plus 8 additional heroes in its Hero Labs mode. Its unique anti-cheat measures and diverse roster have contributed to its rising popularity.

While an official release date remains unconfirmed, 2025 promises more significant developments for Deadlock. The focus on substantial, event-driven updates suggests a commitment to enriching the player experience with impactful content releases.