TenZ Raises Concerns Over Deadlock's Competitive Viability Ahead of Esports Debut

TenZ, a popular Valorant pro player, recently shared his concerns about the competitive viability of Deadlock, a new MOBA-hero shooter hybrid. While the game has garnered a lot of hype during its early access phase, TenZ believes its complexity may hinder its success as an esport.

He explained that the game's intricate mechanics make it difficult for casual players and new viewers to follow, particularly with the addition of a fourth lane, which deviates from the traditional three-lane structure seen in most MOBAs like League of Legends.

TenZ pointed out that Deadlock's blend of third-person shooter elements and MOBA-style gameplay might make it too confusing for audiences unfamiliar with its mechanics. Additionally, this complexity could negatively impact the viewing experience during esports events, which rely heavily on clarity for spectators.

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Supporting TenZ's viewpoint, Overwatch 2 observer ObsSojourn emphasized the challenges of broadcasting Deadlock, suggesting that a highly skilled team with extensive game knowledge is necessary to make the game more viewer-friendly. The upcoming $10,000 esports tournament hosted by afterMatch Esports on October 4 will serve as a real test of whether the game can overcome these hurdles and become a more accessible esport.

Fans and critics alike are waiting to see how this complex game will fare in its competitive debut.