Helldivers 2 is a cooperative shooter that invites players to clear waves of massive beetles. Thanks to its strong mechanics, the game has drawn a large crowd on Steam, with concurrent players reaching a notable peak. This article explores standout features in Helldivers 2 and also points out some practical drawbacks.
Like its predecessor, Helldivers 2 presents a top-down, overhead view with familiar war themes. The core concept remains intact: battle aliens and machines on neighboring worlds. The atmosphere nods to the 1997 cult film Starship Troopers, delivering a tongue‑in‑cheek, over‑the‑top sci‑fi vibe.
Have you played the original Helldivers?
Engaging large enemy crowds
Recent years have trimmed the opportunities to fight hordes simultaneously. Helldivers 2 harks back to classic arcade shooters where foes outnumber the player, surround from all sides, and push pressure from every angle. Survival hinges on accurate fire, smart positioning, and timely retreats to regroup.
Heavy fire shreds aliens
Every successful hit does more than chip away at health; it can dismember adversaries, sending limbs or parts tumbling under the laws of physics. This effect isn’t groundbreaking on its own, but when dozens of beetles flood the screen, bursts from a machine gun or an armed rocket launcher rapidly clears swarms, splashing yellow blood across the battlefield.
Procedurally generated maps
Each mission in Helldivers 2 takes place on a new layout thanks to random map generation. This means fresh battle conditions, item spawns, and ambush points in every run. The design keeps the game engaging even after many sessions in a row.
Friendly fire remains enabled
There is no option to disable friendly fire. Accidental hits can wound or eliminate teammates. In Helldivers 2, this isn’t a minor detail—fire density is high, making teamwork and precise coordination essential for success.
Playing online with strangers adds another layer of risk, since a player may intentionally disrupt the group for mischief or chaos.
Stratagems as special abilities
Stratagems are unique abilities bound to players, activated through specific button combos. These skills unlock progressively and include options like airstrikes, revives, gunner calls, or ammo resupply. Coordinating these tools with teammates is often key to completing objectives, and their effectiveness can grow with practice and teamwork.
Switching perspectives boosts tactics
Alternating between third- and first-person views isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a tactical asset. The over‑the‑shoulder view helps react to sudden alien charges, while eye-level cam shifts allow precise shots with reduced recoil.
Humor amid the war
Helldivers 2 leans into satire about democracy and governance wielded with weapons. The battles against aliens mingle with lighthearted moments and humor, such as a player reacting with gleeful laughter during a firefight.
A global, player-influenced war
The storyline centers on the clash between humans and aliens. The progress of the war is shaped by every online battle, with victories and losses collectively driving the front line. This shared persistence hints at expansive potential for the future and adds a compelling incentive to play well.
Co-op is the focus
Although a solo mode exists, Helldivers 2 is built around cooperative play. It stands out as a top choice for friends who want to team up, pool resources wisely, and synchronize strategies. Cross‑play supports PS5 and PC players, letting groups play together across platforms.
Helldivers 2 emphasizes teamwork and shared goals over lone-wolf play
A variety of foes
Enemies differ in abilities: some leap long distances, some spit corrosive acid, and others wear shells that require heavy weapons to pierce. Expect to adapt on the fly since battles often pit multiple enemy types against a single team.
Bosses with strong health, extra summons, and later-stage robots demand tailored tactics. The developers may add new enemy types in future updates, keeping encounters fresh.
That said, Helldivers 2 isn’t flawless. A few drawbacks are worth noting.
Server stability concerns
Not all players can enjoy a smooth experience. At times, login surges overwhelm servers, causing crashes and outages. The team has acknowledged the issues and is actively working to improve reliability.
Graphics are functional, not flashy
By contemporary standards, Helldivers 2 delivers solid visuals but lacks the polish seen in top-tier triple-A titles. Effects are vivid, but the overall presentation sometimes feels budget‑friendly, particularly in distant backgrounds. Success with the franchise could push greater funding for a forthcoming sequel.
Controls lean toward gamepad
PC players using a keyboard and mouse may find the control scheme less intuitive. The game clearly targets PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller for the most comfortable experience.
Have you played Helldivers 2 yet?
No PvP mode
The team behind Helldivers 2 has stated that player-versus-player combat will not be part of the game. The focus remains on a broader, shared threat. Some players would welcome PvP arenas for extra variety, but the current design centers on co-operation rather than competition.
In-game store
The store offers cosmetic items and does not affect core gameplay. Players can also earn premium currency by completing tasks, which can be spent on non‑essential items.
Have you played Helldivers 2 yet? Share impressions in the comments!
Source: VG Times