Deadlock’s next major update is shaping up to be one of the most visually transformative patches the game has ever seen. Alongside map-wide art passes, sources have now provided the first clear look at redesigned Troopers and the brand-new three-headed Bull Walker objective. These changes significantly overhaul the game’s visual identity and should make the map feel more distinct, dynamic, and interactive in the coming update.
Deadlock leaker Sleep shared early artwork showing how Deadlock’s upcoming Troopers may look in-game. While the art appears to be traced over in-game models, the designs are described as “extremely accurate” to what’s currently being tested internally.
Healer Troopers now carry large banners, making their role instantly recognizable in lane.
Sapphire Flame units no longer use candle-themed designs. Instead, they’ve shifted toward statue-like, chess-piece-inspired forms.
The Sapphire melee creep resembles a sculpted monument—something similar to a stone chess rook or even a miniature Washington Monument.
Candle Troopers remain, though with minor refinements.
These updated visuals aren’t just cosmetic. They add much-needed clarity during chaotic lane fights, helping players immediately recognize which side a creep belongs to—an especially valuable upgrade for a MOBA-style game like Deadlock.
Multiple sources have now confirmed the accuracy of these designs, and I’ve personally seen internal screenshots that line up almost exactly with Sleep’s artwork. Troopers will be one of the most noticeable visual upgrades on the map, reinforcing Valve’s push to solidify Deadlock’s overall art style in the Cursed Apple.
NEW Chess Piece Troopers & 3-Headed Bull Walkers Coming to Deadlock?? December Major Update Leaks!
Sleep also revealed the first look at Deadlock’s completely redesigned Bull Walker, and it’s easily one of the most striking objective designs the game has ever attempted.
Three massive bull heads form the core structure.
A large bell sits atop the center head, potentially providing an audio cue during fights.
The model appears smaller and more agile than current Walkers, suggesting a greater emphasis on movement-based mechanics.
When low on health, Bull Walkers are expected to enter a frenzy, charging around the map and creating high-intensity objective fights.
These leaks line up directly with older information from Minesweeper and others—confirming charging attacks, stomps, and dynamic movement phases. From what I’ve seen, the model is extremely close to Sleep’s depiction; however, leaks are always subject to change and may be works in progress.
Read More: Every Unreleased Deadlock Hero Explained: Leaks, Abilities, more
Both the new Troopers and Bull Walker contribute to what feels like a broader shift in Deadlock’s design philosophy. Valve appears focused on making lane interactions and objective fights feel more intentional, visually readable, and reactive.
If these models make it into the December update, players should expect Deadlock’s map to look nearly unrecognizable compared to its current form. Even as early leaks, these designs are some of the most impressive visuals we’ve seen for the game yet.
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