Valve just shipped a minor update for Deadlock on July 1, 2026, primarily focusing on adjustments to the hero Shiv. This patch introduces several changes aimed at refining Shiv's combat effectiveness and resource management.
Shiv Adjustments
The update brings a mix of buffs and a slight nerf to Shiv's kit, notably impacting its Alt Fire and Slice and Dice ability:
- Alt Fire ammo cost reduced from 5 to 4: This change makes Shiv's alternate fire more sustainable, allowing for more frequent use in engagements.
- Weapon now has fixed pellet spread: Previously, Shiv's weapon had variable pellet spread, which could lead to inconsistent damage. A fixed spread should make its attacks more predictable and reliable.
- Slice and Dice is now back to doing spirit damage and reducing Spirit Resistance from enemies: This reverts a previous change, re-establishing Slice and Dice as a potent tool for dealing spirit damage and weakening enemy defenses against further spirit attacks.
- Slice and Dice damage increased from 60 to 75: A significant damage buff to Slice and Dice further enhances Shiv's burst potential and overall damage output.
- Killing Blow T3 reduced from +10% Enemy Health Threshold to +8%: This is a slight nerf to Shiv's Killing Blow Tier 3 talent, reducing the health threshold at which the bonus damage applies. This adjustment aims to balance its late-game execution potential.
