Valve has released a major content update titled City Never Sleeps for its upcoming multiplayer hero shooter Deadlock. Despite adding substantial features and visual improvements, the development team noted that the title remains in an unfinished state and requires significant additional work before a full public launch. Access to Deadlock is still restricted to invite-only playtesting.
Expanded Roster and Visual Overhauls
The City Never Sleeps update introduces six new heroes and a fresh visual design for the game's map. Valve has also implemented a redesigned user interface, a reworked ping system, new character voice lines, and upgraded NPC AI alongside new neutral creatures. On the technical side, the update adds new accessibility options, player reporting notifications, and improved anti-cheat measures.
Iterative Development and Long-Term Plans
Valve outlined its multi-track development approach, explaining that current efforts involve testing core systems such as progression, hero customizations, and hideout features early so they can be adjusted based on player feedback. The team is also experimenting with more speculative changes, including alternate game modes and large-scale item redesigns. Future updates are set to focus on updating key structures and bosses like Midboss, Guardians, and Walkers, while visual polish for older hero models is planned for later stages of early development.
Player Base and Linux Support
Even in its invite-restricted playtest period, Deadlock has maintained a strong active player base, regularly reaching around 80,000 players prior to this update according to SteamDB data. The game remains compatible with SteamOS and Linux, operating alongside integrated anti-cheat systems.
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Source: Valve's Deadlock gets a massive update – still a while away from a public release
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