Deadlock Player Count Plummets, Valve Adjusts Development Strategy
Deadlock, Valve's MOBA-shooter, has seen a dramatic decline in players, with peak online counts now rarely exceeding 20,000. In response, Valve has announced a significant shift in its development approach.
The developer's new strategy involves abandoning the previous bi-weekly update schedule. Future updates will be released on a less rigid timeline, prioritizing quality over frequency. This change, according to a developer, will allow for more substantial and thoroughly tested updates. Regular hotfixes will, however, continue to address urgent issues.
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The shift comes after a considerable drop in player numbers. While Deadlock once boasted over 170,000 concurrent players, daily peaks now hover around 18,000-20,000.
Despite this decline, Valve assures players that the game is not in jeopardy. Still in early access and without a release date, the developers emphasize their commitment to delivering a high-quality product. The slower update cadence is viewed as a means to improve the development process and ultimately create a more enjoyable experience. The focus, they say, is on long-term success rather than short-term metrics. This approach mirrors the evolution of Dota 2's development cycle. The current slowdown shouldn't be interpreted as a sign of trouble, but rather as a strategic recalibration. The game's eventual release, however, remains uncertain, especially considering the apparent internal approval for a new Half-Life title.
