Valve's Deadlock MOBA shooter gets exclusive build

Valve's hero shooter MOBA Deadlock remains in its exclusive closed testing phase while developers continue refining gameplay. But an accidental livestream reveal may have exposed a super-secret secondary build featuring never-before-seen heroes and design changes.

A prominent Deadlock streamer reportedly launched the wrong game version during a broadcast, unintentionally showcasing mysterious new additions to the roster. Characters like retro Doorman, studious Bookworm, and edgy Vampirebat appeared alongside redesigned versions of existing heroes like Ivy before the panicked creator shut down the stream.

While concrete details remain scarce, this isn't Deadlock's first brush with leaks. The game's very existence only became public through insider reports. More puzzling is why Valve maintains this ultra-exclusive secondary test when the primary version already operates on strict invitations.

The Deadlock community appears divided - some testers feel slighted discovering exclusivity tiers exist beyond their current access. Recent months have seen major gameplay evolutions, including the controversial removal of an entire map lane. Though Valve's Hero Labs previously let players trial new characters, this hidden build suggests additional testing layers.

Despite its gated development, Deadlock has organically cultivated substantial interest bridging shooter and MOBA audiences. Valve's involvement guarantees attention, but the game's unconventional rollout - now featuring what players jokingly call "Lash 2.0" - continues fueling mystery around this unusual hybrid project.