What Is Deadlock?

Deadlock is Valve’s new multiplayer game that blends MOBA-style lane pushing with third-person shooter combat. Two teams of six compete to destroy the enemy’s base by securing lanes, farming souls, and outplaying opponents in fast-paced gunfights.

If you’re coming from Dota 2 or CS2, you’ll find familiar concepts — but Deadlock puts them together in a way that feels entirely fresh.

Hero Roles

Deadlock’s roster is divided into several broad roles. Understanding them helps you pick the right hero for your playstyle and build a balanced team.

Damage dealers focus on eliminating enemy heroes quickly. They excel in one-on-one fights and team skirmishes but are typically fragile.

Controllers specialize in area denial and crowd control. They shape the battlefield by restricting enemy movement and creating opportunities for their team.

Supports keep allies alive and amplify their effectiveness. They provide healing, shields, and utility that can swing entire team fights.

Tanks absorb damage and initiate fights. They protect their teammates by drawing enemy attention and disrupting formations.

Core Mechanics

Souls are the primary resource in Deadlock. You earn them by last-hitting creeps in lanes, defeating jungle camps, and eliminating enemy heroes. Souls are used to purchase items that enhance your hero’s abilities and stats.

Lane management works similarly to traditional MOBAs — creep waves push back and forth, and securing last hits while denying the enemy is key to building an early advantage.

Shooting is a core part of combat. Unlike traditional MOBAs, your basic attack is an aimed weapon, so mechanical skill matters. Headshots deal bonus damage, and movement during fights is essential for survival.

Tips for New Players

Start by focusing on one or two heroes and learning their abilities. Once you understand the basics, experiment with different builds and playstyles.

Pay attention to the minimap. Deadlock’s lanes are interconnected, and rotations between lanes happen frequently. Awareness of enemy positions prevents ganks and creates opportunities.

Farm efficiently. Souls are everything — a hero with a strong soul lead can dominate fights even against mechanically skilled opponents. Prioritize farming in the early game and look for fights once you have key item breakpoints.

Communicate with your team. Deadlock is a team game, and coordinated plays are far more effective than individual heroics.