HELldivers 2 Developer Says Sequel Should Feel Like Exploring a Dark Basement

Helldivers 2, the sequel to the popular cooperative twin-stick shooter, has taken the gaming world by storm with a massive launch on PlayStation 5 and PC, becoming Sony's most substantial PC game launch to date. Arrowhead Game Studios' CEO, Johan Pilestedt, emphasizes the importance of cooperative play, likening the game's difficulty to being in a dark basement where having a friend by your side makes the experience better. Helldivers 2 is designed to require teamwork, even though it's possible to play solo. This is made evident by the always-on friendly fire mechanic, which is an integral part of the game's chaotic and often humorous combat sequences. Arrowhead's latest patch addresses balancing issues with tough enemies like the Bile Titan and the Charger, while the upcoming Cutting Edge Warbond promises new gear and emotes for gamers to enjoy.

Why is friendly fire always turned on in Helldivers 2?

Friendly fire in Helldivers 2 is always enabled to enhance the game's realism and ensure consistency within the game world. Bullets that can kill enemies can also kill players, which encourages strategic positioning and teamwork. This game design creates a layer of complexity and enables dark humor when players mistakenly target their teammates.

Helldivers, the series to which Helldivers 2 belongs, was first launched by Arrowhead Game Studios in 2015. The original game received acclaim for its challenging cooperative gameplay and was known for its procedurally generated levels, a wide array of weapons and stratagems, and cross-platform play. Helldivers 2 looks to build on this legacy by enhancing the cooperative elements and adding new layers to the gameplay, maintaining the series' reputation for high difficulty and rewarding teamwork.