Valve releases major Deadlock update with six new heroes and personal player spaces

Valve has announced one of the biggest updates yet for its MOBA-shooter hybrid Deadlock. The game will receive six new heroes, released gradually every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday starting August 18, 2025. This staggered rollout is designed to give players time to adapt to balance changes and explore each hero’s abilities.

According to the official announcement, small balance patches will also accompany the hero releases.

Which heroes are coming?

While Valve hasn’t revealed the names in its latest announcement, the community expects the six characters previously spotted on the Hero Labs test server:

• Calico — a support mage designed to counter tanks and gather enemy intel;
• Fathom — a mobile melee fighter with passive healing, ideal for jungle play;
• Holliday;
• Viper;
• Magician;
• Wrecker.

Each has unique mechanics capable of reshaping teamfight strategies.

Growing the project

Recently, Deadlock introduced a new pre-match lobby called Hideout, where players can hang out, train, and prepare before matches. With these updates, Valve signals its ambition to turn Deadlock into a serious esports contender.

What do we know about Deadlock so far?

• Deadlock blends the fast-paced action of a shooter with the strategic depth of a MOBA, drawing comparisons to Overwatch, Smite, and Valorant.
• Matches feature a 6v6 format on a three-lane map.
• The main objective is to destroy the enemy Guardian, similar to the throne in Dota 2.
• Players earn Souls by killing enemies and NPCs, which can be spent on upgrading abilities and items.
• Ziplines and teleports allow for fast movement across the map.
• The world is set in an alternate New York with a mix of urban fantasy, dieselpunk, and occult themes.

Currently, the game remains in closed beta, accessible by invitation only. Valve has yet to announce an official release date. allow full customization of these personal spaces.