Valve's Mysterious MOBA Shooter, Deadlock, Officially Launches on Steam
After a period of intense secrecy, Valve's highly anticipated MOBA shooter, Deadlock, has finally arrived on Steam. This article explores the game's recent beta success, its unique gameplay blend, and the controversy surrounding Valve's approach to its own store guidelines.
Steam Debut and Beta Success
Valve's official Steam page launch for Deadlock marks a significant shift. The game's closed beta recently reached a peak of 89,203 concurrent players, a substantial increase from its previous high. This surge in popularity follows a period where information about Deadlock was largely limited to leaks and speculation. Valve has now relaxed its confidentiality, allowing for open discussions, streams, and community engagement. However, it's important to note that Deadlock remains invite-only and is still under development.
A Unique MOBA/Shooter Hybrid
Deadlock presents a compelling fusion of MOBA and shooter mechanics. The 6v6 gameplay, reminiscent of titles like Overwatch, features teams battling for control across multiple lanes, commanding armies of AI-controlled units alongside their hero characters. This creates dynamic, fast-paced combat where strategic decision-making is crucial. Frequent respawns, wave-based attacks, and the skillful use of abilities are key elements of Deadlock's innovative design. Players must balance leading their troops with direct combat, utilizing movement options like sliding and dashing to navigate the map. With 20 unique heroes, each possessing distinct abilities and playstyles, Deadlock offers a diverse roster encouraging strategic team compositions.
Valve's Store Page Controversy
Valve's handling of Deadlock's Steam page has sparked debate. The page currently features only a short teaser video, falling short of Steam's minimum screenshot requirements. This has led to criticism, with some arguing that Valve, as a platform owner and developer, should adhere to the same standards it sets for others. This isn't the first time Valve's practices have been questioned; similar controversies arose in the past regarding promotional materials on Steam. However, Valve's unique position as both developer and platform owner complicates the application of traditional enforcement. The future handling of these concerns remains to be seen.
The future of Deadlock and its impact on the gaming landscape remain uncertain, but its innovative gameplay and the controversy surrounding its launch have undoubtedly generated significant interest.
