Deadlock's player count has significantly decreased, with peak online numbers now under 20,000. In response, Valve has altered its development approach.

Major updates will no longer follow a fixed bi-weekly schedule. Instead, updates will be released on a more flexible timeline, prioritizing quality over frequency. A developer stated that this will allow for more substantial and polished updates. Regular hotfixes will continue as needed.

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The previous bi-weekly update cycle, while helpful, proved insufficient for thorough testing and implementation of changes. This prompted the strategic shift.

Deadlock's player base has shrunk dramatically from its peak of over 170,000 to a current 18,000-20,000. However, this doesn't necessarily signal the game's demise. Still in early access with no release date, the game's development is ongoing. A 2025 or later release is likely, especially considering Valve's apparent focus on a new Half-Life title.

Valve's adjusted strategy prioritizes quality over speed, aiming for a polished final product. The company believes a satisfying player experience will naturally drive revenue. This approach mirrors Dota 2's development evolution, starting with frequent updates before transitioning to a more refined process. Therefore, there's no immediate cause for alarm regarding Deadlock's future.