Valve has launched a significant update for Deadlock, introducing a dedicated ranked mode alongside a major overhaul to its match balancing systems. The developer has cautioned players that the initial rollout may be unstable, anticipating a chaotic period as the player base adapts to the new structure.
Previously, Deadlock's ranked play was indistinguishable from its standard mode. The new system bifurcates these options, with a separate 'Standard' mode available for players seeking practice or a less stressful experience. To qualify for ranked play, players must now achieve 15 victories across at least three different heroes.
Upon qualifying, players will enter a revised ranking system comprising 11 distinct tiers, each with sub-ranks that must be cleared for promotion. Valve notes that the highest ranks will feature dynamically shifting thresholds due to a smaller player population. The underlying matchmaking system aims to create balanced games while accommodating player hero preferences, with an added feature allowing hero swaps before matches commence.
Valve has stated that the new ranked mode is live now but advises players to "expect the next week or so to be very rocky as the ranked matchmaking pool will start off very thin with most players not having the unlock requirements done yet." Longer queue times and potentially lower match quality are anticipated as the system calibrates. Furthermore, Valve indicated that "Given the large rewrite involved with this update, we are also expecting that it will take a couple of days to iron out bugs."
This update marks a notable step towards the potential public launch of Deadlock, Valve's MOBA. Recent updates have focused on refining existing game elements, suggesting a move towards a more polished experience that could transition from its current invite-only status to a wider open beta.