Valve appears to be on the verge of releasing its first new game in four years, with the unannounced shooter Deadlock already generating significant buzz. Despite no official confirmation from Valve, the game has amassed a substantial following, reaching over 18,000 concurrent players during a recent playtest. This level of interest is particularly impressive for a game that hasn't even been officially acknowledged by the developers.
The Growing Popularity of Deadlock
The player count for Deadlock has been steadily climbing, with recent data showing a peak of 18,254 concurrent players. This figure represents a 578% increase from the previous month's high, according to data tracked on SteamDB. The playtest’s growing popularity is a strong indicator that Valve is ramping up efforts for a potential release, even though the company has remained silent on the matter.
The surge in player numbers was first reported by VG247, highlighting how Deadlock has quickly gained traction among the gaming community. The game’s subreddit is buzzing with activity, and leaked videos showcasing the game’s characters and mechanics have only fueled the anticipation further.
What We Know About Deadlock
Deadlock appears to be a hero shooter with strong MOBA elements, incorporating creeps, lanes, and an in-match store for purchasing upgrades. Leaked footage and information suggest that the game features a diverse cast of characters, each with unique abilities that can significantly influence the flow of battle. The gameplay combines these abilities with traditional third-person gunplay, offering a dynamic and strategic multiplayer experience.
Despite the flood of leaks, Valve has remained characteristically silent. The company’s decision not to take action against the leaks—such as issuing DMCA requests—has only added to the game’s mystique. This approach is notably different from how other publishers might handle such a situation, where a more aggressive response could risk alienating the fanbase.