Helldivers 2
Rating:
*Helldivers 2*, developed by Arrowhead Game Studios and released on February 8, 2024, for PlayStation 5 and PC, is a chaotic, exhilarating co-op shooter that drops you into the boots of a galactic peacekeeper fighting for Super Earth. I’ve logged over 60 hours blasting bugs and bots alike, and it’s a riot of a time—easily one of the most entertaining multiplayer experiences I’ve had in years. It’s not perfect, but its highs are so thrilling that I’m giving it a strong 4-star rating.
The game’s biggest strength is its sheer, unadulterated fun. Dropping into procedurally generated battlefields with up to three squadmates feels like starring in a *Starship Troopers* fever dream—complete with over-the-top propaganda and absurdly satisfying combat. The third-person shooting is punchy and responsive, with weapons like the autocannon and flamethrower delivering visceral feedback as you mow down Terminid swarms or Automaton patrols. Stratagems—orbital strikes, turrets, and massive bombs—elevate the chaos, turning every mission into a cinematic spectacle. I’ll never forget the time I called in a 500kg bomb to clear a bug nest, only to accidentally flatten my entire team in the blast. The friendly fire is brutal, but it’s part of the charm, making every victory feel earned.
Visually, *Helldivers 2* impresses with its alien landscapes—think toxic swamps, snowy tundras, and fiery hellscapes—all rendered with a gritty, atmospheric flair. The sound design is equally stellar, from the patriotic blare of the soundtrack to the squelch of bug guts underfoot. The live-service structure adds a clever twist: your missions contribute to a galactic war map, giving a sense of purpose as the community liberates planets together. Progression is rewarding too, with a steady drip of new gear and ship upgrades that keep you hooked without feeling predatory. At $40, it’s a steal for the hours of entertainment it provides.
That said, it’s not flawless. The always-online requirement is a pain—solo play is doable but far less enjoyable, and early server issues (since patched) left a sour taste for some. The mission variety, while spiced up by random modifiers and optional objectives, can start to blur together after dozens of hours; you’re often just killing waves of enemies or activating terminals, rinse and repeat. The grind for high-end stratagems can feel sluggish too, especially if you’re not playing on higher difficulties. And while the humor and chaos carry it far, there’s no real narrative depth to latch onto—just patriotic satire that’s funny but thin. Posts on X echo this mixed bag, with players loving the squad antics but occasionally griping about repetition.
*Helldivers 2* is a near-perfect co-op shooter that thrives on teamwork, explosions, and slapstick mishaps. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it polishes its chaotic formula to a shine that’s hard to resist. The minor stumbles—repetitive missions and a reliance on online play—keep it from a full 5 stars, but they don’t dim the joy of liberating planets with friends. If you’ve got a crew ready to dive into hell and laugh at the carnage, this is a must-play. Arrowhead has crafted a gem that’s as addictive as it is absurd, and I’ll happily keep spreading democracy—one airstrike at a time.
Back to Games