Valve's MOBA Shooter 'Deadlock' Unveiled on Steam

Valve's mysterious new shooter, Deadlock, finally has a Steam page! This article explores the game's recent beta success, its unique MOBA-shooter hybrid gameplay, and the controversy surrounding Valve's deviation from its own Steam store guidelines.

Valve's Deadlock Emerges from the Shadows

Deadlock Officially Launches on Steam

After a period of intense speculation fueled by leaks, Valve has officially unveiled Deadlock on Steam. The closed beta recently reached a peak of 89,203 concurrent players, a significant jump from the previous high of 44,512 on August 18th. Valve has lifted the previously strict confidentiality surrounding the game, allowing streaming, community discussions, and online commentary. However, it's crucial to remember that Deadlock remains invite-only and is still in its early development stages, featuring placeholder art and experimental mechanics.

A MOBA Shooter Hybrid

Deadlock blends MOBA and shooter elements, delivering a unique 6v6 experience reminiscent of Overwatch. Teams battle for control, pushing opponents back while simultaneously managing waves of AI-controlled units across multiple lanes. This fast-paced gameplay requires players to balance direct combat with strategic troop management. Innovative mechanics like frequent Trooper respawns, constant wave-based attacks, and powerful abilities create a dynamic and tactical experience. Movement options like sliding, dashing, and zip-lining add further strategic depth. The game boasts a roster of 20 diverse heroes, each with unique abilities and playstyles.

Valve's Steam Store Standard Controversy

Interestingly, Deadlock's Steam page currently violates Valve's own store guidelines. While the platform typically requires at least five screenshots, Deadlock’s page features only a single teaser video. This has drawn criticism, with some arguing that Valve, as a Steamworks partner, should uphold the same standards it enforces on other developers. This situation echoes similar past controversies, highlighting the unique challenges faced by a company acting as both developer and platform owner. The long-term impact of this deviation remains to be seen.