In a recent exchange that sparked both curiosity and trepidation among the team at PC Gamer, a colleague revealed that Joe Rogan, the well-known American podcaster and vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, had hosted a guest who attempted to elucidate the intricacies of the game Deadlock. This revelation prompted a cascade of thoughts, particularly for those among us who have invested significant time in the game.
- Wait, I play Deadlock.
- I have 285 hours in it.
- I am going to have to watch someone explain Deadlock to Joe Rogan for six minutes.
- I am then going to have to write about it.
- Oh no.
As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the guest, Simpson, encapsulated the essence of the Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) experience with a strikingly candid statement: “This sht cooler than a motherfcker, but it will also make you mad as sh*t.” This sentiment resonates deeply with anyone familiar with the genre.
The Economy of Deadlock
Simpson proceeded to delve into a critical aspect of any MOBA—economy. While Deadlock may present itself as a shooter, it fundamentally revolves around efficiency, a concept I’ve adopted when introducing the game to friends. My mantra? ‘Economy is king.’
Simpson articulated this point succinctly: “Since this b*tch got the most money, she’s bought the most stuff, which makes her stronger.” While his choice of words may not align with my usual vernacular, the underlying truth is undeniable.
As the clip drew to a close, Rogan made two observations that struck a chord. His first remark, “this seems super complicated,” accurately reflects the learning curve associated with Deadlock. His second comment, suggesting that “this is the kind of thing that people without kids say,” in reference to Simpson’s claim that it takes about 200 hours to grasp the game’s mechanics, was both amusing and astute. Despite his questionable taste in presidential candidates, Rogan’s insights were spot on.
Deadlock, like any MOBA, is an exercise in managing one’s blood pressure, a sentiment echoed by those who have poured countless hours into the game. With nearly 300 hours logged, I can attest to understanding its complexities—though perhaps not mastering them. With an additional 1,000 hours of practice, I might even reach a level of proficiency worthy of a podcast invitation to explain the nuances of air strafing to Rogan himself.