Deadlock is in a closed, invite-only playtest. You can’t buy it, pre-order it, or sign up for it on a website. The only way in is a friend invite through Steam from someone who already has the game.
The good news: invites are free, players can send them, and community channels exist to match people up.
Step 1: Make sure your Steam account can receive an invite
Before chasing an invite, check your account:
- It can’t be a “limited” account. Steam limits accounts that have never spent money, and limited accounts can’t receive playtest invites. If you’ve never bought anything on Steam, spending at least 5 USD (on a game, or adding funds to your wallet) removes the limit.
- You need to be able to add friends. The invite comes from a person on your Steam friends list.
Step 2: Find someone with access
Check your own friends list first
Open the Deadlock store page while logged in. The sidebar shows which of your Steam friends own the game. Message one of them and ask; this is the fastest route.
Use community invite channels
If no one on your list has it, try these:
- The official Deadlock subreddit (r/DeadlockTheGame). Look for the pinned invite megathread. Post your Steam friend code and region.
- Deadlock Discord servers. Large community servers have invite channels.
Tip: Add your friend code, not a profile link. Find it in Steam under Friends → Add a Friend.
Step 3: Get invited
The player with access sends the invite from inside Deadlock’s main menu, choosing you from their Steam friends list. You’ll then:
- Get Deadlock added to your Steam library. This can take from a few hours to a day or two.
- Install it like any other Steam game.
- Launch it and start with the tutorial.
Step 4: Pay it forward
Once you’re in, you get your own invites. Inviting friends is the best way to have a regular party, and partied play is a lot more fun while you learn.
Watch out for scams
- Never pay for an invite. They’re free.
- Never share your Steam login with anyone “sending you an invite”. A real invite needs only your friend code.
- Ignore “Deadlock beta key” sites. There are no keys; access works only through Steam friend invites.
What to do once you’re in
- Play the tutorial. It teaches the controls and the soul system.
- Tune your settings for performance.
- Learn the controls and keybinds.
- Follow our first 10 matches roadmap.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy Deadlock?
No. Deadlock can't be bought or pre-ordered. The only way in is a free invite from a Steam friend who already has access.
How long does a Deadlock invite take to arrive?
Usually somewhere from a few hours to a couple of days after your friend sends it. It shows up as Deadlock in your Steam library, with no email or notification required.
Why can't I receive a Deadlock invite?
The most common reason is a limited Steam account. Accounts that have never spent money on Steam can't use many friend features, including receiving playtest invites. Spending at least 5 USD on Steam lifts the limit.
Is it safe to buy a Deadlock invite or account?
No. Invites are free, so anyone selling one is either scamming you or selling a shared or stolen account, which can get banned. Never give anyone your Steam login.
Numbers on this page are checked against the game and the community-run Deadlock Wiki. Spotted something a patch changed? Tell us.