In a significant development for the gaming community, Duncan “Hopoo” Drummond, co-founder of Hopoo Games, has confirmed his involvement with Valve’s much-anticipated title, Deadlock. This announcement follows the studio’s recent transition to Valve, where most of the team, including Drummond and fellow developer Morse, have shifted their focus, leaving behind an unannounced project codenamed “Snail.”
Insights from the Deadlock Team
The news broke on X, known as “The Everything App,” through a post by Deadlock Intel, a trusted source for updates on the game and its beta testing community. Drummond, using his familiar online persona, conveyed a message to the Discord server dedicated to Deadlock, reassuring fans of his presence. He noted, “I’ll be around so no need to cram it all now. Any fixes I do today most likely won’t make it to today’s build, just to set expectations.”
This transition has sparked curiosity regarding the roles of other Hopoo Games team members, particularly whether they will also contribute to Deadlock or pursue different projects within Valve’s enigmatic environment. As of 2021, Valve employed 336 individuals, with over half dedicated to active game development. Currently, Counter-Strike 2 and Deadlock are among the studio’s most supported titles, while speculation lingers about the future of other projects, including the acclaimed Half-Life: Alyx.
Reflecting on the situation, parallels have been drawn to Campo Santo, the creators of Firewatch, who were acquired by Valve in 2018. Their anticipated sequel, In the Valley of the Gods, appears to be indefinitely postponed, with some developers reportedly redirected to work on Half-Life: Alyx. This trend raises concerns about the fate of independent studios like Hopoo and Campo Santo, whose unique visions may be overshadowed by Valve’s broader ambitions.
However, Drummond’s expertise in third-person shooters and itemized progression, showcased in Risk of Rain, aligns seamlessly with the demands of Deadlock. This synergy suggests that, despite the bittersweet nature of such transitions, the potential for creating exceptional gaming experiences remains high. Ultimately, the allure of a position at Valve is undeniable, prompting many in the industry to consider the opportunity irresistible.
