The current state of Deadlock

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses the balance changes in the game 'Deadlock,' emphasizing the developers' effective approach to hero adjustments and item viability. Highlighting an updated tier list, they argue that nearly every character is now playable, even those previously deemed underpowered. The speaker addresses community concerns about certain heroes like Shiv and Haze, suggesting that their current performance is still viable. They praise the developers for their transparency and regular updates, while also noting areas for improvement, particularly with certain game mechanics. Overall, the video conveys optimism about the game's evolving balance and direction.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the ongoing evolution of character balance in the game 'Deadlock,' drawing from extensive personal experience since May.
• 😀 An updated tier list reveals shifts in character performance, particularly with Inferus and Paradox moving to S-tier.
• 😀 The development team is praised for their thoughtful approach to nerfs and buffs, avoiding overreactions to player feedback.
• 😀 Transparency and accessibility of the developers, particularly Yoshi, are highlighted as key strengths of the team.
• 😀 The speaker notes that most characters are currently viable across different ranks, although some, like Hay, face challenges.
• 😀 Items in the game are also balanced effectively, with several previously considered broken items now having clear drawbacks.
• 😀 The speaker believes that gradual nerfing strategies help maintain balance without rendering characters unplayable.
• 😀 Concerns are raised about specific mechanics, such as the ear mechanic and mid boss balance, indicating areas for improvement.
• 😀 There is a call for the community to appreciate the developers' efforts, suggesting that balance is improving with each patch.
• 😀 The overall sentiment is optimistic, indicating that as the game continues to develop, balance will likely become even more refined.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the video?

The video focuses on the balance changes in the game 'Deadlock,' specifically discussing character viability and the effectiveness of the balance team.

What notable changes were highlighted in the updated tier list?

The updated tier list shows a shift with characters like Seven, Infernus, Great Talon, Mirage, and Paradox moving into the S tier, while acknowledging that Shiv and Hay were nerfed but still viable.

How does the speaker define the difference between competitive play and lower ranks?

The speaker notes that certain characters perform better in higher ranks, while others may be stronger in lower ranks, emphasizing the variability in character effectiveness based on player skill levels.

What is the speaker's perspective on community feedback regarding balance?

The speaker encourages a positive view of the developers' efforts, suggesting that the balance team is responsive yet measured in their adjustments based on player feedback.

Which character does the speaker suggest may need further adjustments?

The speaker indicates that Hay may require further attention due to being hard countered by specific items like Metal Skin.

What does the speaker say about the item Divine Barrier?

The speaker mentions that Divine Barrier has drawbacks that prevent it from being overpowered, particularly in the late game where its impact diminishes.

What qualities does the speaker attribute to the Deadlock development team?

The development team is praised for their transparency, engagement with the community, and the frequency of updates, including new heroes and patches.

How does the speaker feel about the overall direction of balance in the game?

The speaker feels optimistic about the balance changes, stating that the game is becoming healthier with each patch, despite some initial confusion over specific adjustments.

What character dynamics are highlighted in terms of current balance issues?

Characters like Mirage and Paradox are seen as potentially overpowered due to their strong abilities and lack of counters, but the speaker believes future character releases may help balance these dynamics.

How does the speaker view the impact of recent patches on character tier placement?

The speaker notes that with each patch, determining a definitive tier list becomes more challenging, indicating a dynamic and evolving balance within the game.