Deadlock is shaking things up with its biggest update in months: a dramatic shift from four lanes to three! Read on to discover the details of this significant overhaul and other exciting changes coming to the game.

Deadlock Announces Major Update

From Four Lanes to Three: A Map Reimagined

Deadlock's latest update simplifies its core gameplay by reducing the map from four lanes to three. This significant redesign, detailed in a February 26, 2025, Steam post, encompasses far more than just lane reduction. The update includes extensive map-wide changes affecting visuals, building layouts, pathways, neutral camps, air vents, breakables, power-up buffs, juke spots, and even the mid-boss. While Deadlock's unique third-person perspective in the MOBA genre sets it apart, the previous four-lane structure may have added unnecessary complexity.

The update also streamlines early-game farming. Players no longer need to last-hit enemy troopers to summon Soul Orbs, making resource acquisition smoother and more efficient in the laning phase. Further improvements are promised in the game's netcode and client performance.

A Vital Update for Deadlock's Future

This substantial update could be the key to reigniting community engagement. Deadlock experienced a surge in popularity in September 2024, reaching an all-time peak of 171,490 players. However, player numbers have since dropped significantly, with only around 17,000 active players this past month—a 90% decrease.

Valve Developer Yoshi addressed the update schedule in Deadlock's Discord server in January 2025, explaining the shift away from a strict two-week patch cycle. 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."

Deadlock is currently in active development and playtesting, accessible via friend invite only. No official release date has been announced. For more information, visit our Deadlock page.