Summary

  • Deadlock devs are working on anti-cheat software as aimbot use has been detected in playtest footage.
  • Fans are wondering whether Deadlock will use Valve Anti-Cheat (VAC) or some other software.
  • Despite having no confirmed release date, Deadlock is already incredibly popular on Steam.

One of the developers of Valve's upcoming game Deadlock has given a minor update on the company's anti-cheat plans. After the recent lifting of its playtest NDA, gamers who were able to get temporary early access have started sharing their footage, which includes evidence of aimbot use. Deadlock has given players a lot to talk about in the last few months, sparking the interest of thousands within a short timeframe.

Even though it's likely months away from being released, Deadlock is already one of the most popular games on Steam. Throughout the years, developer Valve has been credited with creating massive hits, such as Counter-Strike and Team Fortress, so it's no surprise that fans are already blowing up the internet with questions and theories about the upcoming title.

Deadlock September 2024 Update illustration 2x1 header
Deadlock Releases Big New Update for September 2024

Valve releases a new Deadlock update that introduces some substantial changes to the way its latest MOBA game looks and plays.

As playtest footage for Deadlock started hitting the internet publicly, players reportedly noticed several instances of cheaters using aimbots and other hacks to gain an unfair advantage. This led Yoshi, one of Valve's developers, to send a message to the game's official Discord chat, which was later reposted on the subreddit r/DeadlockTheGame. They used the opportunity to remind players that the company is working on anti-cheat software and that the task remains one of their top priorities.

Valve Emphasizes Top Priority for Deadlock Anti-Cheat Software

Given that Deadlock players were already encountering cheaters in the game despite not having a confirmed release date yet, questions and concerns regarding the issue were quick to arise. This is why, ever since August 11, 2024, there's evidence of the developers discussing anti-cheat software on the game's official Discord group.

Players started wondering if Deadlock would use VAC (Valve Anti-Cheat), the same kernel-level software that some of the developer's other titles, such as Counter-Strike or Team Fortress Classic, have implemented. At the moment, Valve's developers haven't confirmed whether this will be the case, as kernel-level anti-cheats have been controversial over the years, as they provide great cheater detection but are also known for being rather invasive. This, along with the recent leak of all Deadlock characters and other details, has been a popular conversation topic among fans.

There's a ton of speculation revolving around Deadlock, with some players even claiming that there's a clear connection between Valve's upcoming release and the Half-Life universe. Whatever the case, it's undeniable that, while there are currently no clear indicators pointing to a definitive release date, Deadlock's playtest footage has made some waves. Only time will tell what the game's anti-cheat software will look like and whether it will be able to keep cheaters away from online matches.

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Deadlock Tag Page Cover Art
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Shooter
MOBA
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Systems
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Developer(s)
Valve
Publisher(s)
Valve
Engine
Source2
Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer
Steam Deck Compatibility
Unknown
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
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Deadlock is an upcoming game from Valve which seemingly combines elements of the MOBA and hero shooter genres. As it is still in early development, gameplay and assets may be incomplete. Access is granted via friend invites.

Platform(s)
PC
Genre(s)
Shooter, MOBA