Valve’s Deadlock, the MOBA-shooter hybrid quietly testing behind closed doors, became even more mysterious. A top streamer accidentally revealed a hidden second playtest inside the first, showing off new heroes and a surprising redesign of Ivy, the game’s favorite gargoyle character.
If you’ve followed Deadlock’s early days, you know Valve has been playing it close to the chest. The game remains invite-only, though getting access isn’t exactly a Herculean task. Still, discovering a secret playtest within the existing one adds a new layer of intrigue to the whole operation.
The streamer Deathy accidentally opened the wrong client during a broadcast, quickly closing it, but not before sharp-eyed fans grabbed screenshots. These images reveal a fresh roster featuring characters like the scholarly “Bookworm,” a bellhop-themed “Doorman,” and the unsettlingly grinning “Drifter.” There’s even a second version of Lash called Skyrunner, which might be placeholder art.
Existing heroes have also received visual updates. Abram now sports some stubble, McGinnis swapped her welding mask for a Rosie the Riveter-style bandanna, and Ivy, the gargoyle who’s won over many hearts, has undergone a major makeover. Her fangs have been softened, her eyes moved closer, and she now sports large, floppy ears.
Ivy’s original design was a bit rough around the edges, a scruffy gargoyle with a flat cap and a hunchback that made her feel genuine and endearing. The new look is undeniably more polished and approachable, but it risks losing some quirky charm that made her stand out. It’s a classic case of “cute versus character,” I’m curious how fans will react to this softer version.
Valve’s secretive approach to Deadlock’s development means nothing is set in stone. The game’s map has already seen drastic changes, shrinking from four lanes to three, and the hero designs are still evolving. This second playtest might be another step in Valve’s slow, careful crafting of what could be a standout title in the MOBA/shooter space.
What do you think about Ivy’s new look and the fresh heroes? Does the redesign detract from her appeal, or is it a welcome change? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, I’m eager to hear your take.
