Valve's MOBA hero shooter Deadlock remains in an invite-only testing phase as development continues, but an accidental livestream reveal may have uncovered a second, even more exclusive playtest featuring previously unseen characters and redesigns.
Livestream Slip Reveals Hidden Build
The leak originated when a prominent Deadlock player reportedly launched the wrong game build during a livestream. Viewers captured footage showing new characters including the retro-styled Doorman, bookish Bookworm, and gothic Vampirebat alongside visual updates for existing heroes like Ivy.
While the streamer quickly ended the broadcast upon realizing their mistake, the damage was done - details of this secret build have now surfaced online.
Testing Within Testing
This leak marks just the latest in a series for Deadlock, though it's particularly notable as the game remains officially in closed testing. While Valve has previously used Hero Labs for public testing of new characters, this appears to be a more restricted internal build being used for additional iteration.
Community reaction has been mixed, with some testers expressing frustration about being excluded from what appears to be an even more exclusive test group within the already-limited pool of players.
Growing Interest Despite Limited Access
Despite its closed status, Deadlock has attracted significant attention from both shooter and MOBA fans. Its unconventional rollout and invite-only access have only heightened interest in Valve's latest project.
One Reddit user humorously summarized part of the leak's impact: "Oh great, as if one Lash wasn't bad enough - now there are two of him!"
While information remains scarce, this accidental reveal suggests Valve is testing more substantial changes than previously known, even as the base version continues evolving through its regular testing channels.
