Deadlock is an upcoming competitive multiplayer, a third-person online shooter from Valve, a combination of a hero shooter and a MOBA game.
Discover with us everything you need to know about Deadlock. All the knowledge in a nutshell!
The game is set in an alternative version of New York. The city has been cursed and at every turn you can see elements related to the occultist practices, such as ritual circles on old brick buildings.
There are also robots present, so that the game bears the characteristics of steampunk style. In general, Deadlock may evoke associations with Smite, if you know that title. Here you deal with a third-person MOBA game, in which two teams of six players fight each other. The game starts with choosing three heroes from the pool. Each of them has unique abilities that can be used during the game, unlocking them gradually during the match.
FAQ
What is the specific game genre?
Deadlock is primarily a third-person arcade shooter MOBA with elements of a hero shooter. It is essentially a blend of genres, and a unique one.
How many characters are currently available?
For the time being, there are 22 playable characters in Deadlock, each with unique abilities and weapons.
What is the development status?
The game is still in early development stages, with limited early access available through playtesting. Valve has been characteristically secretive about many of its details.
Can I join?
Yes, but not just like that, by yourself. You can join the playtest only by invite: by either receiving an invitation from Valve itself or from a friend who is already participating.
What is the genre of Deadlock’s setting?
Deadlock’s genre combines elements of hero shooter and MOBA, creating a competitive and strategic environment. And the action is set in an alternative version of NYC.
Accessing Deadlock
As for now, accessing the gameplay is possible via an invitation, no exceptions. If you have a friend who is already part of the Deadlock playtest, they can send you an invite.
Once you receive it, you’ll get an email and a Steam notification allowing to add your account to the playtest. Occasionally, Valve sends out random invites to players as well.
This method is less predictable, as it relies on being selected by Valve and it’s not clear what criteria do they follow, if any.
Gameplay Basics
Once you get to the map, the goal is fairly simple: players engage in 6v6 battles, controlling powerful heroes to destroy enemy defenses and ultimately defeat a massive golem called the Patron to win, you have to take over the opposing team’s base.
And in order to achieve this, you need to gain full control over one of the four paths on the map. On each of the paths there are points that must be gradually taken over (while making sure that the opponents do not take full control of the other paths).
The paths are guarded by powerful machines that must be destroyed. The players from the opposing team interfere with your plan, of course.
What is more, each team is helped by AI-controlled creatures. They take an active part in the fight and heal allies in the area.
When defeating players and mobs we receive souls in return, which we can exchange for various types of reinforcements at special points on the map.
Deadlock is focused on online play. The main mode is therefore based on two teams competing with each other. You can also join a team of other players and fight bots. Inexperienced people can play only with the AI-controlled characters.
Similar Titles
Deadlock shares similarities with several popular games due to the fact that it blends hero shooter and MOBA elements. Below you’ll find a few examples:
Overwatch 2
The game features a roster of heroes, each with unique abilities and roles. The fast-paced, team-based gameplay and emphasis on hero synergy are common elements.
League of Legends
Deadlock’s strategic depth and hero-based mechanics are analogous to League of Legends. Both games require players to master different characters and work together to achieve objectives.
Paladins
It’s another hero shooter that combines elements of MOBA gameplay. Paladins and Deadlock both offer a variety of characters with distinct abilities, making for diverse playstyles.
Rogue Company
Known for its third-person perspective and tactical gameplay, Rogue Company shares Deadlock’s emphasis on strategic team play and character abilities.
Characters and Story
Deadlock is set in an alternate version of prohibition-era New York City, blending occult magic with high technology.
This unique setting creates a rich and immersive world where players can explore a fusion of historical and fantastical elements. The game’s genre is a combination of hero shooter and MOBA, which influences both its gameplay and narrative structure.
The tone of Deadlock is quite diverse, featuring a mix of dark, gritty themes with moments of high-stakes action and strategic depth.
Characters like Yamato (a Japanese crime boss) and Abrams (a half-devil detective) add layers of intrigue and complexity to the story.
Characters
Deadlock features a diverse roster of 22 unique heroes, each with their own unique set of abilities that can be leveled up during the match and distinct playstyles. Here are a few characters worth mentioning:
- Abrams – tanky hero with a mix of gargoyle and demon elements, Abrams excels in close-range combat and can absorb a lot of damage1.
- Bebop – red robot being a great initiator in battles due to its hook ability, which can capture and drag enemies.
- Dynamo – nother robot, built around supporting the team with powerful abilities, including a black hole-like ultimate that can control the battlefield.
- Grey Talon – Native American character who uses a long-range bow, providing excellent support from a distance.
- Haze – assassin excelling in stealth and quick eliminations, perfect – if you enjoy a more tactical approach.
- Infernus – fast assassin focusing on fire damage – he can quickly take down enemies with high burst damage.
- Ivy – imp healer supporting her team with healing abilities, ensuring they stay in the fight for much longer.
With a closed beta beginning in May 2024, Deadlock has been in playtesting since 2023 and has experienced a sharp rise in player numbers. On August 23, 2024, Valve formally announced Deadlock. And on the same day, the game’s Steam page was launched, revealing that it is presently in early development with experimental gameplay and temporary art.
It is powered by the Source 2 engine and places a strong emphasis on hero abilities, strategic item building, and teamwork. The game is still friend invite only to access.