How to create Deadlock custom lobby guide 2024

During the month of September 2024, Deadlock brought in various under-the-hood changes and features including the ability to set up a Deadlock custom lobby that can be accessed through developer console.

As of now, Deadlock is available to the public as an early access build. Valve is constantly building on the game to deliver an experience that both shooter and MOBA fanbases can enjoy.

Setting up custom lobby in Deadlock

However, since the game is developed by Valve, players have the option to use the developer console to fine-tune their game or access features that are not present on the normal interface.

Guide for creating a custom lobby in Deadlock

Deadlock custom lobby interface — Screenshot by Amlan Roy/ONE Esports

Deadlock doesn’t officially have the option to create private lobbies via an interface. With some command prompts and some bypasses, it is possible to host private custom matches.

If you want to host custom matches for your friends or a private tournament, you’ll need to follow the steps in the proper order.

Deadlock character Abrams in ONE Esports' image for how to get access to Deadlock playtest — Credit: Valve, ONE Esports

How to get access to Deadlock playtest — complete guide

Deadlock custom lobby instructions

Open the Developer Console by pressing F7. (You can change it in settings via the key bind option)
Once the console options, type in the following command “private_lobby_create” and hit enter.
On opening the Private Lobby, use the Invite button to bring in players to fill the lobby. You can also use the invite code which is present under Match Settings.
Each teams are assigned as The Amber Hand and The Sapphire Flame. Each side has six slots and players can join them by simply clicking on the team they would like to join.
Every player then needs to clock the Ready Up button beside their name to play the match.
Once you’ve reached the desired number of players click on the Start Match button and start playing.

The private lobby is also a great way to practice against each other without having an adequate number of players. To do so, simply change the bot option under the Match Setting tab.

Deadlock character Grey Talon in ONE Esports' image for how to invite friends to Deadlock lobby — Screenshot by Fariha Bhatti/ONE Esports, credit: Valve

There are also spectator slots present under the Private Lobby menu. Once spectators join the lobby, they’d have to select ready alongside players to start the match.

If you’re facing server lag while playing the match, use the Region setting under Match Settings to shift to a closer server.

That concludes our guide on setting up a Deadlock custom lobby.