Deadlock Dev Uses ChatGPT to Help With Matchmaking Code

Valve's upcoming MOBA-hero shooter, Deadlock, recently overhauled its matchmaking system, thanks to a developer's innovative use of ChatGPT. A Valve engineer, Fletcher Dunn, revealed on Twitter (now X) that the Hungarian algorithm, suggested by ChatGPT, now powers Deadlock's hero selection in matchmaking.

Deadlock's Matchmaking Overhaul: A ChatGPT Success Story

Previous MMR System Draws Criticism

Deadlock's previous matchmaking, based on Matchmaking Rating (MMR), faced significant backlash from players. Reddit threads highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with uneven team skill levels, with many reporting consistently facing highly skilled opponents while being teamed with less experienced players. Comments included complaints about facing opponents far exceeding their skill level, especially in early game matches.

(c) r/DeadlockTheGame Responding to player concerns, a Deadlock developer announced a complete matchmaking system rewrite. Dunn's use of ChatGPT, as he proudly shared on Twitter, provided a crucial solution. He now keeps a dedicated ChatGPT tab open in his browser, highlighting the AI's increasing utility in his workflow. He's even committed to sharing future "ChatGPT wins," aiming to showcase the tool's capabilities to skeptics.

While acknowledging the benefits of speed and ease, Dunn also expressed reservations about the potential displacement of human interaction. He noted the tendency for ChatGPT to replace consultations with colleagues or public brainstorming. This sparked a debate on social media, with some users pointing out concerns about AI replacing programmers.

Algorithms are essential for sorting data based on specific criteria. In gaming, this translates to matching players based on skill or preferences. Dunn leveraged ChatGPT's capabilities to find an algorithm ("where only one side has any preferences") suitable for a bipartite matching scenario—optimally pairing players in a two-sided system.

Despite the improvements, some players remain unconvinced, expressing continued frustration with the matchmaking system's performance. Negative comments on Dunn's tweets ranged from accusations of prioritizing AI experimentation over game development to outright criticism of the game's prolonged beta phase.

Here at Game8, however, we remain optimistic about Deadlock's potential. For a more in-depth look at our playtest experience and overall impressions, check out the link below!