7 Ways To Save Deadlock And Make It Great Again
Discover 7 key strategies to revive Deadlock, from fixing matchmaking to adding exciting new content. Learn how Valve can bring this unique MOBA shooter back to the top.
Remember when Deadlock first launched? It felt like the next big thing in gaming. An experimental MOBA shooter from Valve, drawing in hundreds of thousands of players, all with barely any marketing.
But lately? The buzz has faded. Why? Games like Marvel Rivals have stepped up, snatching over 20 million players in just one month. Tough competition.
The good news? Deadlock has the potential to shine again. But Valve needs to act fast. Here are seven game-changing moves that could bring it back to the top.
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1. Fix the Matchmaking Mess
Fair matches are everything in competitive gaming. Right now, Deadlock’s matchmaking system feels off. Players complain about lopsided matches where one team steamrolls the other.
The fix? A smarter matchmaking algorithm. One that pairs players with similar skill levels.
And here’s a thought: add performance-based rewards. Play well? Earn extra points or perks. It keeps players motivated and makes matches feel fairer.
2. Bring on the Events (and Rewards)
Valve has nailed seasonal content with games like DOTA 2 and Counter-Strike 2. So why not do the same for Deadlock?
Imagine this:
- Seasonal events with unique challenges.
- Limited-time skins and exclusive hero abilities.
- Wild, themed game modes.
Even better? Let players vote on event themes. When the community feels involved, they stick around longer.
3. Expand the Hero Roster (With Player Help!)
Right now, Deadlock has 30 heroes. Solid. But many of the newer ones are stuck in the experimental Hero Labs mode.
Why not speed up their rollout? Use player feedback to refine heroes and make them battle-ready.
Here’s a cool idea: hold community contests or polls to design new heroes. Players love seeing their ideas come to life. Plus, fresh characters keep the gameplay exciting.
4. Separate Ranked and Casual Modes
Ranked games can be intense. Not everyone’s into that. Mixing ranked and casual players? Frustrating.
The solution? Two separate modes.
- Ranked: For competitive players who want to climb the ladder.
- Casual: For laid-back matches, maybe even fun mini-games or experimental modes.
This way, everyone gets what they’re looking for.
5. Go Big with Console Launch and Cross-Platform Play
Right now, Deadlock is desktop-only. But gaming is huge on consoles. Valve should jump in.
Picture this:
- Deadlock launches on PlayStation and Xbox.
- Cross-platform play connects everyone—PC, console, you name it.
- Players can switch devices without losing progress.
This move would attract millions of new players and open the game to global markets.
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6. Keep the Content Flowing
No one likes a stagnant game. Regular updates are a must.
Think:
- New maps.
- Exciting game modes.
- Partnerships with popular franchises for themed content.
Want to make it even better? Let the community vote on new features or map designs. When players feel heard, they stick around.
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7. Better Player Communication and Support
Teamwork is key in Deadlock. But the current communication tools? They could use an upgrade.
Valve should add:
- Clearer pings and customizable emotes.
- Reliable voice chat.
- A robust support system for reporting issues or disputes.
When players know their feedback matters, they’ll keep coming back.