*Suggestions for a More Memorable Roster*
I want to start by saying I’m not coming at the Deadlock development team as a frustrated, noob player but rather as someone who frequently plays and genuinely wants to see the game succeed at the highest level. The dev team has done an admirable job with consistent updates, community interaction and transparency with the community. Given that Deadlock is still in early development, I think constructive feedback can be particularly valuable right now. This post reflects my thoughts on recent character design choices and ability decisions.
"You never get a second chance to make a first impression". I refrence this saying frequently in my day-to-day life and this applies to your game as much as anything. Recent character releases – take Fathom, for example – show potential, but I feel there's a missed opportunity to make these designs more streamlined and captivating. Fathom’s current build feels awkward and questionable to say the least. The same can be said for characters like Yamato and Viper, whose designs feel somewhat plain, and I can’t help but think their unique character models could have been much more fully developed. Each character design should reflect the essence of what makes Deadlock… well, Deadlock. Consistency in this regard would go a long way in reinforcing the game’s identity.
This brings me to the newly announced character, Trapper. Trapper, to me, is Exhibit A of a missed opportunity. He looks almost identical to Pocket, and while I may not be fully aware of all the character lore or specific design intentions, a minor change like a haircut doesn't make him feel authentic or unique. Trapper's near-identical look to Pocket detracts from that crucial “ah-ha” moment when players first encounter a new character. It’s essential that each new additions feel fresh and instantly recognizable, enhancing the excitement and curiosity that come with character reveals.
With that being said, I highly urge you to reconsider his current design. A game like Deadlock relies on characters that players can connect with and find memorable. In a competitive genre like this, small design choices determine whether players stay or move on.
While I understand the game is gaining momentum, some ability and design choices feel questionable and slightly even rushed. It’s crucial that the community doesn’t start feeling that things are being hurried at the cost of quality. This is not to dismiss the hard work I know the devs are putting in. I recognize that not everyone may agree with my views, and I’m aware that future plans might address these issues.
That said, I do understand these characters haven’t officially launched yet, and I’m only offering my input to guide the future direction of Deadlock.
If you take anything from this - I urge the team to remember: make each character unique, authentic, and memorable. Keep characters as individual as possible, each adding something special to the game. To the devs who may see this: you’re doing an amazing job. Stay creative, transparent, and passionate – I have no doubt Deadlock has the potential to thrive.
I welcome and encourage others to share their own thoughts! However, if your response is simply to dismiss criticism without reasoned input, I’d suggest keeping it to yourself. Thank you to everyone who took the time to read this far.
I want to start by saying I’m not coming at the Deadlock development team as a frustrated, noob player but rather as someone who frequently plays and genuinely wants to see the game succeed at the highest level. The dev team has done an admirable job with consistent updates, community interaction and transparency with the community. Given that Deadlock is still in early development, I think constructive feedback can be particularly valuable right now. This post reflects my thoughts on recent character design choices and ability decisions.
"You never get a second chance to make a first impression". I refrence this saying frequently in my day-to-day life and this applies to your game as much as anything. Recent character releases – take Fathom, for example – show potential, but I feel there's a missed opportunity to make these designs more streamlined and captivating. Fathom’s current build feels awkward and questionable to say the least. The same can be said for characters like Yamato and Viper, whose designs feel somewhat plain, and I can’t help but think their unique character models could have been much more fully developed. Each character design should reflect the essence of what makes Deadlock… well, Deadlock. Consistency in this regard would go a long way in reinforcing the game’s identity.
This brings me to the newly announced character, Trapper. Trapper, to me, is Exhibit A of a missed opportunity. He looks almost identical to Pocket, and while I may not be fully aware of all the character lore or specific design intentions, a minor change like a haircut doesn't make him feel authentic or unique. Trapper's near-identical look to Pocket detracts from that crucial “ah-ha” moment when players first encounter a new character. It’s essential that each new additions feel fresh and instantly recognizable, enhancing the excitement and curiosity that come with character reveals.
With that being said, I highly urge you to reconsider his current design. A game like Deadlock relies on characters that players can connect with and find memorable. In a competitive genre like this, small design choices determine whether players stay or move on.
While I understand the game is gaining momentum, some ability and design choices feel questionable and slightly even rushed. It’s crucial that the community doesn’t start feeling that things are being hurried at the cost of quality. This is not to dismiss the hard work I know the devs are putting in. I recognize that not everyone may agree with my views, and I’m aware that future plans might address these issues.
That said, I do understand these characters haven’t officially launched yet, and I’m only offering my input to guide the future direction of Deadlock.
If you take anything from this - I urge the team to remember: make each character unique, authentic, and memorable. Keep characters as individual as possible, each adding something special to the game. To the devs who may see this: you’re doing an amazing job. Stay creative, transparent, and passionate – I have no doubt Deadlock has the potential to thrive.
I welcome and encourage others to share their own thoughts! However, if your response is simply to dismiss criticism without reasoned input, I’d suggest keeping it to yourself. Thank you to everyone who took the time to read this far.
