Valve Releases New Deadlock Patch with Ranked Mode and Gameplay Adjustments

Valve has announced the release of the latest patch for Deadlock, which introduces an official Ranked mode and includes several changes to maps, items, and hero balances. The update, published on October 10, 2024, is designed to enhance gameplay quality and fairness among players.

As outlined in the official patch notes, Valve is experimenting with a fresh approach to the Ranked mode. Aimed at ensuring high-quality matches, the mode will concentrate players into designated time slots, currently set from 1pm-4pm and 7pm-10pm in respective time zones each day. To participate, players must have completed 50 games, and those with behavior-related restrictions will not be allowed to queue for matches.

The Ranked mode will initially operate as a solo queue, matching players with others who hold the same medal rank. Valve’s competitive structure involves 11 medals, each featuring six levels, which will be visibly displayed in ranked games. Medals will be updated weekly on Tuesdays at 8PM GMT, following an algorithm that assesses players’ performances.

In addition to the new mode, the update includes comprehensive hero and item tweaks, impacting abilities such as Monster Rounds, Restorative Shot, and weapons across many heroes. Changes have been made to balance game mechanics, including adjustments to weapon damage, cooldowns, and spirit scaling.

Notable hero adjustments include reductions in health and movement for Abrams and tweaks to abilities for characters like Bebop and Dynamo. For instance, Bebop’s Hook range has increased, and Abrams’ Seismic Impact now allows for slight movement.

This patch also seeks to address bugs and glitches, including fixing issues around accidental wallhacks. These flaws previously allowed players to target enemies behind walls, and have now been rectified to prevent unintended advantages.

Valve has acknowledged reports of imbalance in matches, encouraging players to provide feedback and match IDs to aid in refining the game’s matchmaking system. They have affirmed a commitment to ongoing improvements to ensure balanced gameplay experiences.

Overall, this update signifies Valve’s active engagement with the Deadlock community and their dedication to evolving the game’s competitive scene. As they continue to fine-tune mechanics, players are encouraged to adapt to the new changes and provide feedback.