Deadlock, Valve's MOBA-shooter, has seen a significant player base decline, with peak online counts now hovering around 18,000-20,000, a far cry from its initial peak exceeding 170,000. In response to this, Valve has announced a strategic shift in its development approach.
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Previously adhering to a bi-weekly update schedule, Valve acknowledges that this rapid release cycle hindered thorough testing and implementation of changes. The new strategy will move away from a fixed update timeline, prioritizing quality over frequency. While hotfixes will remain a regular occurrence, major updates will be released less frequently, but with more substantial content and improvements, according to the developers.
Despite the player count drop, Valve assures fans that Deadlock's development remains on track. The game is still in its early stages, and a release date is yet to be announced. This revised development plan suggests a focus on refining the game's core mechanics and ensuring a polished final product. The developers highlight that this approach mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's development cycle, emphasizing a commitment to long-term quality over rapid iteration. The potential impact of Valve's internal green light for a new Half-Life title on Deadlock's timeline remains to be seen. Ultimately, Valve's strategy prioritizes creating a satisfying player experience, believing that a high-quality game will naturally attract and retain players.
