Valve has taken a significant step in the gaming world by filing for a trademark for “Deadlock,” a hero shooter that the company has yet to officially acknowledge. This move, which covers online games and competitions, brings Deadlock closer to recognition, even though Valve has consistently refused to confirm its existence.
Deadlock: the game that both exists and doesn’t
Deadlock is a hero shooter that has generated considerable buzz despite Valve’s silence. Many have seen it, discussed it, and even played it, yet Valve remains tight-lipped about the game’s development. This situation leaves Deadlock in a state of limbo, much like Schrödinger’s cat, a metaphorical reference to something that exists in two contradictory states simultaneously. The recent trademark filing, however, suggests that Deadlock is inching closer to becoming a reality.
Gameplay footage has emerged for the new Valve game Deadlock. The multiplayer shooter will be similar to Overwatch.
Details of the Deadlock trademark application
The news of the trademark filing was shared by Twitter user Gabe Follower, who has been both a source of excitement and caution regarding Deadlock. After initially stopping discussions about the game, Gabe Follower has returned to the topic, this time focusing on the trademark rather than the game itself.
The trademark application aims to cover various aspects of online gaming, including “online computer games” and “organization of competitions relating to video games.” Specifically, the application details several categories:
- Providing online video games
- Provision of on-line entertainment through computer games
- Electronic games services via the Internet
- Information on computer games and entertainment
- Organization of video game competitions
- Video game education and entertainment
This application has been accepted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) but awaits approval.
What does the trademark mean for gamers?
The trademark filing does not guarantee that Deadlock will be released. Valve previously filed a trademark for Neon Prime in 2022, a project rumored to be a new game, which was later dismissed by the USPTO. Some speculate that Deadlock might be a rebranded version of Neon Prime or even an evolution of a project known as Citadel from 2019.
Valve’s secretive nature means that Deadlock remains an enigma. The company is known for its unpredictable approach, often working on projects behind closed doors and revealing them only when they are nearly complete. This method keeps fans and the gaming community guessing, creating a mix of frustration and anticipation.
List of Valve’s potential strategies for the game:
- Rebranding existing projects under new names to maintain secrecy.
- Developing games quietly and revealing them close to completion.
- Filing trademarks to protect potential game titles without confirming the development.
- Keeping the community engaged through leaks and rumors without official statements.
When will we know more about Deadlock?
The possibility of seeing Deadlock in action remains uncertain. Valve could unveil the game at a major event, such as the Summer Game Fest on June 7, mirroring the reveal of Half-Life: Alyx at The Game Awards in 2019. However, Valve might also choose to maintain its silence for an extended period, potentially delaying any official announcement until much later.
Valve’s approach contrasts with other major gaming companies that keep their fans informed through controlled communications. Valve’s enigmatic style has become part of its identity, creating a unique blend of intrigue and exasperation among gamers. While some appreciate the surprise element, others wish for more transparency.
In conclusion, the trademark filing for Deadlock is a notable development in Valve’s gaming ventures. While it brings the hero shooter closer to acknowledgment, it does not confirm its release. As gamers await further news, the mystery of Deadlock continues, embodying Valve’s legendary secrecy and its ability to keep the gaming world guessing. Whether Deadlock will emerge as Valve’s next big title or remain another unfulfilled project, only time will tell.
