Valve's beta hero shooter Deadlock builds mass following as writers log heavy playtime
The gist
Valve's Deadlock, still in beta, is drawing a mass following with 44 characters and 6v6 matches.
Writers say its core loop is strong enough to enjoy without winning.
How it unfolded
- Oct 26, 2026Big Boss Battle staff describe playing Deadlock, with writer Rhys Davis calling it the game he is playing most and Iwan Morris saying it has consumed almost all of his life.
- Oct 27, 2026DualShockers publishes a guide on 8 habits to become a better Deadlock player, including learning a few heroes well, weaving in melee and parries, and using the minimap.
- Oct 28, 2026Ball State Daily News reports Deadlock is growing a mass-following in its beta, describing 44 characters, 6v6 matches and three modes: Standard, Competitive and Street Brawl.