The VALORANT Champions tournament and the Absence of Deadlock
The ongoing VALORANT Champions tournament in Los Angeles has seen every agent being played, apart from one. The newest addition to VALORANT, Deadlock, has yet to see any playtime on stage. This may come as a surprise, but the reason behind this is simple – Deadlock just isn’t very good.
Why Is Deadlock Undesirable?
Deadlock brings some new mechanics to the game, but she hasn’t been picked for a good reason. Other agents like Phoenix, Yoru, Cypher, and Reyna have made their mark on the international stage, while Deadlock continues to be overlooked.
The Problems with Deadlock
Deadlock’s utility is slow and doesn’t allow for spontaneous or reactive play. For example, her Barrier Mesh ability has a small throwing distance, making it difficult to place the barrier where you want without risking your position. Additionally, her sound sensors are not very helpful, especially with clear communication among teammates. These factors make Deadlock a weak choice, particularly in a pro setting where communication and team synergy are essential.
Is There Hope for Deadlock?
While Deadlock currently lacks popularity and success, there is still hope for her in the future. Similar to the agent Harbor, who initially had little use but found a place in the meta over time, Deadlock might just need more time to find her footing.
Not-So-Popular Picks Can Still Succeed
The success of former throw picks like Reyna, Yoru, Cypher, and Phoenix proves that even niche picks in the professional world should not be disregarded. This indicates that the overall balance of agents in VALORANT is in a good spot.
Although Deadlock has yet to make her mark in the VALORANT Champions tournament, it doesn’t mean she won’t eventually find her place in the agent pool.
Related keyword: VALORANT Champions, Deadlock, agents, tournament