Will Apex Legends Survive Season 25? The Good, Bad, and DeadLock

Season 25 of Apex Legends is just around the corner, and it might be the most important one yet. With heavy-hitting competition entering the scene and some of Apex’s biggest names jumping ship, the question is clear: can Apex hold its ground?

Between rising player counts, a loyal console fanbase, and looming threats like Valve’s new title Deadlock, we’re entering a make-or-break moment for Respawn’s flagship Battle Royale.

Let’s break down what’s happening, who’s leaving, what’s coming, and what it means for Apex going forward.

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Big Names Are Leaving Apex

The headlines are impossible to ignore. Several prominent figures in the Apex community have announced their departure from the game:

• Hardki, one of EMEA’s most experienced comp players, has officially retired from Apex to grind Deadlock, already clocking over 870 hours. source
• NoCo, a staple content creator since the early days of Apex, shared that he’s stepping away to pursue content and competition in Deadlock as well. source
• Giggle from LG called Deadlock “the best game they’ve played in years.”
• Even Sweet, another top competitor, predicts that Deadlock “is going to be huge.”

So, what is Deadlock? And should Apex be worried?

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What is Deadlock and Why Is It a Threat?

Deadlock is Valve’s upcoming multiplayer shooter-MOBA hybrid. It’s not a direct battle royale like Apex, but it still features hero-based combat, shooting, and fast-paced gameplay with unique characters—sound familiar?

Despite only being in pre-alpha, Deadlock has already hosted major competitions like the Aurora Deadlock Masters and attracted top-tier interest. It’s fast, flashy, and being developed by Valve—the studio behind CS:GO, Team Fortress 2, Dota, andPortal.

Given Valve’s track record, this isn’t just another Apex clone. It’s the real deal. And while it doesn’t directly compete as a battle royale, it will compete for Players, creators, and viewers.

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But Apex Isn’t Dead Yet

Despite some creators jumping ship, Apex Legends is still alive and doing better than many think.

Let’s look at the numbers:

• 24-hour peak: Over 229,000 players
• Currently active (PC): Around 132,000–136,000
• Average player base: Still holding above 94,000 on Steam alone
• source

And that doesn’t even include console players, which make up the majority of Apex’s audience. As of now, Deadlock has no console Support, giving Apex a major edge in that department.

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What Happened to the So-Called “Apex Killers”?

Let’s not forget the hype machines that came before:

• The Finals peaked at 242,000 players on launch. Now? Down to just 14,000 daily.
• XDefiant, Ubisoft’s answer to the arena shooter scene, launched to decent numbers but is now rumored to be on life support.

Neither managed to maintain traction, and both were seen as “Apex killers” for about five minutes. Apex outlived them, and it may outlast more to come.

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Why Season 25 Matters

Apex isn’t invincible. The game is facing mounting pressure—not just from external competition but from within. Players are still frustrated by:

• Skill-based matchmaking
• Audio bugs
• Lack of meaningful updates

If Respawn can address those concerns, Season 25 could be a turning point—not just for maintaining relevance, but for rebuilding creator trust and long-term player loyalty.

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Final Thoughts

Deadlock might not “kill” Apex Legends, but it will absolutely pull players and creators away. The real question is whether Respawn and EA are ready to evolve.

Apex is still one of the most unique, polished shooters on the market, and its console dominance gives it an extra buffer. But Season 25 needs to deliver. New content, quality-of-life fixes, and bold innovation will be key.

Because if Apex fails, it won’t be because of competition. It’ll be because of complacency.

For more Apex Legends updates, creator shifts, and Season 25 coverage, head over to ALegends.gg.

Source: Thordan Smash

Frequently Asked Questions about Apex Legends and Season 25