Deadlock Dev Uses ChatGPT to Help With Matchmaking Code

Valve's upcoming hero shooter, Deadlock, recently overhauled its matchmaking system, thanks to a surprising source: the AI chatbot ChatGPT. A Valve engineer, Fletcher Dunn, revealed on Twitter (now X) that ChatGPT helped identify the Hungarian algorithm as the ideal solution.

Deadlock's Matchmaking Overhaul: A ChatGPT Success Story

Deadlock's previous MMR-based matchmaking faced significant criticism from players. Reddit threads were filled with complaints about unevenly skilled teams, with players consistently matched against superior opponents while having less-skilled teammates. One player commented on the disparity, noting consistently tougher matches without commensurate improvements in teammate skill. Another echoed these sentiments, highlighting the frustrating experience of facing experienced players while their own team consisted largely of newcomers.

(c) r/DeadlockTheGameResponding to this feedback, a Deadlock developer acknowledged issues with the existing hero-based MMR system on the game's Discord server, promising a complete rewrite of the matchmaking system. This rewrite, according to Dunn, leveraged the power of ChatGPT to pinpoint the Hungarian algorithm.

Dunn highlighted ChatGPT's growing importance in his workflow, stating it has become an indispensable tool, always open in a dedicated Chrome tab. He's actively sharing his positive experiences with the AI, aiming to counter skepticism surrounding its capabilities. However, he also acknowledged a potential downside: the replacement of human interaction, whether in-person or online, with AI-driven solutions. This concern was echoed by some social media users who pointed to narratives of AI replacing programmers.

Algorithms are fundamental to data sorting, defining parameters and rules for processing information. Google search exemplifies this; its algorithm analyzes search queries to deliver relevant results. In gaming, algorithms can optimize matchmaking, considering player preferences to create balanced teams. Dunn's query to ChatGPT specifically sought an algorithm prioritizing one side's preferences within a two-party (bipartite) matching scenario.

Despite the improvements, some players remain unhappy with Deadlock's matchmaking, expressing frustration and anger online in response to Dunn's tweets. Criticism ranged from accusations of prioritizing ChatGPT use over fixing the game to sharp rebukes of the developer's actions.

Here at Game8, we remain optimistic about Deadlock's potential. For a more detailed perspective on the game and our playtest experience, please see the link below.