Over one year ago, Helldivers 2 launched to overwhelming commercial and critical success. Presenting a uniquely designed cooperative experience wherein teams of four can overcome numerous objectives, employing multiple different tactics to “spread liberty”. Within the fictional universe as well as its fan-bases, this revere for “managed democracy” has been fervent and the source of much online discourse. This has resounded not just within the usual circles affected by video game media properties, but also surprisingly within the United Nations. They were asked by the UN to discuss, “in some form, about psychological defense against manipulation,” their CEO revealed in March via interview.
Helldivers 2 was in many ways an extremely ambitious project for its developers, Arrowhead Studio. The original game was a isometric game that was reminiscent of older “twin-stick” shooters. After 9 years of cultivating the original wherein multiple waves of content were added, the team released its sequel; a third-person shooter, with orbital physics simulations alongside ballistic angle modeling. The game itself is so thoroughly polished as to be seen as a great example of “Plausible” Science-Fiction design. Every piece of equipment provides unique avenues of design and expression while retaining distinct stylistic consistency as to its source property. This has even been displayed in their exploration of crossovers with other Intellectual Properties; when asked to provide an example of acceptable versus unacceptable brand crossovers, the Game Director actually provided a chart detailing where he considers it antithetical to his vision and in addition provided “Core Tenets” that he considers when handling crossovers.
This speaks to one of the most essential tools to Helldivers 2’s longevity and potential. Despite many issues caused by the sheer scale of the player population as opposed to their wildest predictions, as well as numerous challenging periods wherein the game was not in an ideal balance state, the team behind it are incredibly open to communication. They utilize an empowered team and highly likable public face that is honest with them, and willing to both explain themselves as well as truly be a member of the community in and of itself. This is demonstrable in many of the “urban-myths” present in-universe; for example, the fan-made myth of “John Helldiver” eventually became a canonical character. Whether it is a myth rooted in actual “in-universe” events, or a fabrication of the Super Earth Ministry of Truth is left open to speculation, but the willingness to take good feedback from the community is critical in making the game so beloved.
For any potential fan of sardonically satirical media, with cutting fashion and a distinctly refined experience, one can do no better than Helldivers 2. For new players and returning veterans alike, they can enjoy:
- Consistent content updates made with the intent to promote player happiness, and refine the underlying core philosophy.
- An upbeat and communicative development team, that will pay attention to and learn from player discourse.
- Innovative design, in both its core gameplay loop as well as design. Every faction and planet is stunningly beautiful.
- The existence of a virtual game-master, Joel, who watches over and guides enemy forces to mold the narrative.
In the future, through leaks and announcements, potential Helldivers can look forward to:
- Clan systems wherein meaningful connections and collective efforts can be coordinated.
- Modification systems to further increase player autonomy and customization.
- Multiple crossovers with other intellectual properties, that bolster the design vision rather than cheapen it.
The future is incredibly bright for both the studio and the game itself. While some concern has been expressed about its decline in playerbase, the remaining playerbase is both sizable and consistent. They are also accompanied by returning players who mainly play during big events or announcements. In an increasingly split online gaming market, carving out a sizable niche is one of the hardest barriers to success, and Arrowhead continues to display their caliber.