Valve's Deadlock Update: Cheaters Transformed into Frogs

In a unique twist on anti-cheat measures, Valve has introduced a new feature in its upcoming hero shooter, Deadlock, that allows players to transform detected cheaters into defenseless frogs for the rest of the match. This whimsical approach aims to address the growing issue of cheating during the game’s closed beta phase. As players encounter cheaters, they will have the option to either ban them immediately or turn them into frogs, adding a humorous layer to the competitive experience while maintaining game integrity.

The Mechanics of Frog Transformation

When a player is detected as cheating, their opponents will be presented with two choices: immediately ban the cheater and end the match or turn them into a frog for the duration of the game. The frog form renders the cheater unable to attack or utilize their character’s abilities, making them an easy target for other players.

This playful punishment serves both as a deterrent and a source of entertainment for non-cheating players. The new option went live on Sep. 27, but was first announced on Sep. 26 in the latest patch notes. As per the patch notes:

“Added an initial Anti-Cheat detection system. When a user is detected as cheating, during the game session the opponents will be given a choice between banning the user immediately and ending the match or turning the cheater into a frog for the rest of the game and then banning them afterwards. The system is set to conservative detection levels as we work on a v2 anti-cheat system that is more extensive. We will turn on the banning of users in a couple of days after the update is out. When a match is ended this way, the results will not count for other players.”

Comparison with Other Anti-Cheat Strategies

Valve’s frog transformation method stands out in contrast to traditional anti-cheat measures employed by other games. Similar attempts have been made in titles like Call of Duty, where cheaters have faced embarrassing consequences such as parachute failures or weapon removals. The whimsical approach in Deadlock not only addresses cheating but also adds an element of humor that could enhance player engagement.

As Deadlock continues its closed beta testing, Valve is committed to refining its anti-cheat systems. The company plans to roll out more extensive measures in future updates while monitoring player feedback on this innovative approach. With an impressive concurrent player count and growing popularity, Deadlock aims to establish itself as a staple in the competitive gaming landscape while keeping cheating at bay through creative solutions.