Introduction: Deadlock’s Evolving Landscape
Valve may have finally confirmed Deadlock’s existence, but that doesn’t mean it’s in a finished state. The MOBA shooter is currently in a closed beta, which is invite-only. Hence, numerous changes and additions, including new heroes, are expected. One such addition is Astro, a DPS cowboy character with some intriguing abilities.
Meet Astro: Abilities and Gameplay
Astro comes with a set of unique abilities that are sure to shake up the current meta. His first ability involves placing an exploding barrel, which can be shot or launched toward enemies, dealing more damage the closer they are to the explosion. The second ability lets Astro drop a bounce pad that damages enemies when they land on it. His third ability involves throwing his cowboy hat to damage, slow, or reveal enemies.
Perhaps the most exciting and potentially disruptive ability is Astro’s lasso. This ability allows him to capture and drag an enemy behind him, which has drawn comparisons to Batrider from Dota 2. Players have already expressed excitement over this similarity, noting it could bring a thrilling element to gameplay.
The Role of Crowd-Control in Deadlock
In Deadlock, several heroes already possess crowd-control abilities that can frustrate opponents, such as Bebop’s hook and Wraith’s ultimate telekinesis. Astro’s abilities are expected to add another layer of crowd-control dynamics, intensifying the need for strategic movement and positioning.
Mastering Movement in Deadlock
As more heroes with crowd-control skills are added, learning effective movement techniques becomes crucial. Players should focus on practicing good movement habits, including sliding for speed and unlimited ammo perks. Additionally, items like Majestic Leap, Warp Stone, and Superior Stamina can aid in maneuvering around the map, making it pivotal to master these techniques early on.
In summary, the introduction of Astro will undeniably shift the dynamics in Deadlock, making it essential for players to adapt and embrace both offensive and defensive strategies to thrive in an increasingly complex battlefield.
