A First Encounter with Deadlock
A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to playtest Deadlock. Entering with no prior exposure to any unofficial gameplay footage or discussions, I was largely unaware of what Valve’s new third-person MOBA shooter entailed. My initial assumption was that it might have a sci-fi theme, given Valve’s frequent forays into that genre. However, the reality was more intriguing.
Atmosphere and Aesthetics
The moment the main menu loaded, I was greeted by an eerie strings-and-piano track reminiscent of a Tim Burton film. The camera panned between city buildings, eventually resting on a smoky street adorned with candles and spectral pigeons. A half-demon detective, burly and bespectacled, leaned against an occult corner store advertising beer, talismans, and groceries. Marching across the intersection at the end of the block was a troop of candle-headed puppets, setting the tone for what was in store. ‘Welcome to the Cursed Apple,’ Deadlock’s tutorial cheerfully announced, and I couldn’t have been more captivated.
Unique Character Designs
Deadlock’s peculiar aesthetic, which I can only describe as a mix of occultpunk, neo wiccanoir, and pulp horror, continues through its character roster. From a fedora-clad, interplanar pyromaniac to a living gargoyle, the hero designs are captivating. Unlike Dota 2’s scattered array of remixed Warcraft 3 heroes, Deadlock’s lineup seems more cohesive even at this early stage. Each character, from the haunted femme fatale to the Columbia professor turned into a star, embodies Valve’s commitment to fleshing out a new universe.
A World of Absurdity and Humor
Deadlock’s partially completed map is already laced with absurd world-building details. Parked vehicles sport logos for ‘Fogwell’s Bioluminescence’ and ‘Five Eyes Meats (from concentrate).’ Advertisements for reanimation specialists boast same-day services for fluid restoration and mortal preservation. In this universe, it’s not unusual to find an occult goods store sharing space with a produce market, echoing the trademark humor seen in TF2’s class shorts and item descriptions.
Compelling yet Challenging
Despite my lack of experience with MOBAs and my intimidation over mid-game ability and item build decisions, Deadlock’s compelling aesthetic makes it worth the effort. The blend of diverse cultures, creatures, and arcane elements hints at a grand, interconnected world waiting to be explored. Valve’s latest project promises humor, creativity, and a refreshingly unique atmosphere, making it an exciting prospect for players willing to dive into its sandbox.
