"Deadlock Now Features Three Lanes in Major Update"

Deadlock, the innovative third-person MOBA, has just announced a significant update that promises to reshape the game's core experience. The most notable change is the transformation of the map from four lanes to three, a move aimed at simplifying the game's structure and enhancing player engagement. This major update, detailed by Valve on Steam on February 26, 2025, includes a comprehensive map rework and adjustments to various game mechanics.

Deadlock Announced Major Update In Months

Four-lane Map Becomes Three Lanes

The shift from four lanes to three is accompanied by a wide array of changes across the map, including alterations to visuals, building layouts, pathways, neutral camps, air vents, breakables, powerup buffs, juke spots, and the mid boss. This redesign aims to streamline gameplay while maintaining Deadlock's unique third-person perspective, which sets it apart in the MOBA genre. The addition of a fourth lane had previously introduced complexity, and this update seeks to balance that out.

Furthermore, the update introduces changes to farming mechanics. Players will no longer need to last-hit enemy troopers to summon Soul Orbs, making early laning phases more accessible. The patch notes also highlight improvements in the game's netcode and client performance, promising a smoother gaming experience.

Vital Update for Deadlock

This update could be the catalyst Deadlock needs to revitalize its player base. In September 2024, the game saw its all-time peak of 171,490 active players, but by the following month, the player count had dropped by 90%, with only around 17,000 players remaining. This significant update may help rekindle interest and bring players back to the game.

Valve Developer Yoshi, in a January 2025 post on Deadlock's Discord server, explained the shift in the update schedule. He noted that the previous two-week cycle was too restrictive for implementing desired changes. Moving forward, major patches will be larger and less frequent, with hotfixes released as needed. Yoshi stated, "Going forward, major patches will no longer be on a fixed schedule. These patches will be larger than before, albeit a little bit more spaced out, and hotfixes will continue to be released as needed. We look forward to fleshing out the game in the new year."

Currently, Deadlock is in active development and playtesting, accessible only through friend invites. No official release date has been announced, but fans can stay updated by visiting our Deadlock page for more information about the game.