VALORANT’s upcoming hero shooter, Deadlock, is set to receive a significant overhaul just ahead of its full release. Developers have confirmed a substantial update that not only alters the game’s core mechanics but also touches upon nearly every playable hero.
Key Takeaways
- Deadlock’s fundamental gameplay mechanics are being reworked.
- Almost every hero in the game has seen adjustments, including buffs, nerfs, and reworks.
- These changes aim to refine the player experience and balance the roster.
- The update draws comparisons to mechanics seen in games like Heroes of the Storm.
Core Mechanics Under the Microscope
The developers have identified core systems within Deadlock that required significant attention. While specifics are still emerging, the intention is to create a more engaging and balanced foundation for the game. These fundamental shifts suggest a move towards a more dynamic and potentially less predictable gameplay loop.
Every Hero Feels the Change
Beyond the foundational mechanics, the update targets the entire hero roster. This isn’t a minor balance pass; it indicates that many abilities and roles may have been re-evaluated from the ground up. Players can expect familiar heroes to play differently, requiring new strategies and adaptations.
The Heroes of the Storm Connection
Interestingly, some of the trooper changes have drawn parallels to the popular MOBA, Heroes of the Storm. This comparison suggests a potential shift in how certain roles or units function, perhaps leaning towards more distinct role definition or unique talent-like systems within the hero abilities.
Editor’s Take
This kind of sweeping change, especially so close to a wider release or a significant update, is a bold move. It signals a developer willing to listen to feedback and iterate aggressively. However, it also carries risk. Overhauling core mechanics and nearly every hero could alienate existing players if not handled with extreme care and clear communication. The comparison to Heroes of the Storm is intriguing; that game’s approach to hero design and meta often revolved around synergistic team compositions and unique power spikes, which could be what Riot Games is aiming for in Deadlock to differentiate it from competitors like Overwatch 2 and Valorant itself.
This article was based on reporting from PC Gamer. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
