Valve's 'Deadlock': New MOBA Shooter Revealed

Valve's New MOBA Shooter, Deadlock, Officially Launches on Steam

After a period of intense speculation, Valve has finally unveiled its highly anticipated MOBA shooter, Deadlock, on Steam. This announcement follows a successful closed beta, reaching a peak of 89,203 concurrent players – a significant increase from its previous high. Read on to learn more about the game's features, the controversy surrounding its Steam page, and Valve's unconventional approach to its own platform guidelines.

Deadlock Emerges from the Shadows

The official Steam page launch marks a shift in Valve's previously secretive approach to Deadlock. Following leaks and rumors, Valve has now opened the door for public discussion, allowing streaming and community engagement. However, it's important to note that the game remains invite-only and is still under development, featuring placeholder art and experimental mechanics.

A Unique Blend of MOBA and Shooter Gameplay

Deadlock blends the strategic depth of MOBAs with the fast-paced action of shooters. Players engage in 6v6 battles, commanding both their hero characters and squads of AI-controlled units across multiple lanes. The dynamic gameplay features frequent respawns, wave-based combat, powerful abilities, and strategic movement options including sliding, dashing, and zip-lining. With a roster of 20 unique heroes, Deadlock prioritizes teamwork and tactical decision-making.

Valve Faces Criticism Over Steam Store Compliance

Interestingly, Deadlock's Steam page deviates from Valve's own store guidelines. While the platform typically requires at least five screenshots, Deadlock currently only features a single teaser video. This inconsistency has led to criticism, with some arguing Valve should uphold the same standards it sets for other developers. This situation echoes past controversies, highlighting the challenges inherent in a company acting as both developer and platform owner. The long-term implications of this approach remain to be seen.