About Deadlock
Don't get trapped.
Deadlock is an independent, free-to-play strategy game made by a small indie developer. It brings the timeless "race and block" mechanics of wall-placement board games to the browser and to mobile, with fast online matches, a ranked ladder and a clean, modern design.
Why we built it
Wall games like Quoridor are some of the most elegant strategy games ever designed: the rules fit on a single card, yet the decisions are deep enough to keep players thinking for years. We wanted a version that you can open instantly on any phone or computer, challenge a friend with a short room code, and finish a full game during a coffee break.
A short history of wall games
The modern wall-placement genre began in the 1970s with the game Blockade (1975) and later Quoridor (1997), which won the Mensa Select award. These games combine the simplicity of a racing game with the spatial reasoning of a maze puzzle. Because every wall affects both players, they reward planning, counting and timing rather than luck — there are no dice or hidden cards in the core game.
What makes Deadlock different
No downloads. Open the site and get matched with a real opponent.
Every ranked match updates your rating so you always face players near your level.
Relaxed games, 3- and 5-minute clocks, or blitz modes with only seconds per move.
Three AI levels built on path-finding and search algorithms to help you practice.
A shorter variant for even faster games.
Collect colors, emojis, planets and flags for your pawn — purely visual, never pay-to-win.
Learn the game
New to wall games? Read our complete How to Play guide with the rules, jumping, wall placement and strategy tips.
Contact
Feedback, bug reports and partnership requests are welcome via our Official Support Form or our contact page.