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Episode 8 Deadlock Buffs – Is She Good Now?

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Episode 8 Deadlock Buffs: What You Should Know

In Episode 8, Deadlock received buffs to her Sonic Sensor and Barrier Mesh, building upon the improvements made to her GravNet in Episode 7. This article will break down the Deadlock buffs and provide insights on how to best utilize her in the current meta.

Deadlock’s Buffs

Deadlock's core abilities have been significantly improved, starting with the GravNet:

  • Increased pull strength and mobility loss for debuffed targets.
  • Debuff duration is indefinite until removed, with removal time extended from 0.85 seconds to 1.5 seconds.
  • Expanded radius from 6 meters to 8 meters.

Barrier Mesh Buff

Her Barrier Mesh also received an important improvement:

  • Extended wall length from 6 meters to 10 meters.

Sonic Sensor Buffs

Lastly, the Sonic Sensor underwent several notable enhancements:

  • Recalling now possible mid-round.
  • Increased recall distance from 12 meters to 27 meters.
  • Reduced activation time from 1 second to 0.5 seconds.
  • Decreased enemy reaction time from 0.65 seconds to 0.5 seconds.
  • Added an audio cue for Deadlock and allies within the sensor’s area of effect.

How Do These Buffs Help?

While many improvements involve numerical adjustments, the increased radius of GravNet and Barrier Mesh makes them more forgiving and easier to use effectively. Precise lineups are less critical, as these abilities now cover larger areas.

Additionally, the improved Sonic Sensor offers faster activation and the option to pick it up mid-round, making Deadlock’s kit more flexible.

Deadlock in the Current Meta

Deadlock excels at halting enemy advances, similar to Sage, but does not fully replace traditional Sentinels like Cypher or Killjoy. Her utility shines on maps favoring post-plant situations, but she may not always be the best choice on maps requiring double Controller or Initiator setups.

Best Practices for Playing Buffed Deadlock

With her improved ability sizes, Deadlock is less dependent on precise lineups. When attacking, focus on positioning for trades and post-plant scenarios. On defense, use Sonic Sensors strategically in areas where enemies are committed, making it easier to capitalize on concussed opponents.

Conclusion

Once considered a weaker agent, Deadlock has become a viable option in Episode 8 with her buffs. Her enhanced abilities improve her playstyle and make her more impactful in the meta. Give her a try and take advantage of these improvements while opponents are still adjusting!