Helldivers 2 (PS5) review: Despite teething problems, this multiplayer shooter is a gem in the making

Note: This review was first published on 23 February 2024.

As I picked up my PlayStation 5 controller to play Helldivers 2, I found myself grappling with an unexpected adversary – not within the digital battlegrounds. But with its inaccessible servers. Arrowhead Studios, the folks behind this anticipated sequel, has been waging a relentless battle against server overloads and technical mishaps since the game's launch on 8 Feb. Despite their efforts, a plethora of issues including bugs, crashes, and the frustration of disappearing XP progression has marred the game's debut. Ordinarily, this would be the juncture at which I'd abandon ship, yet Helldivers 2 possesses an undeniable allure that keeps me coming back for more.

Helldivers 2 positions itself as a frenetic third-person shooter, where the stakes are as high as the intensity of its firefights. Drawing inspiration from the cult classic Starship Troopers, the game thrusts humanity into the throes of intergalactic warfare, with the so-called Super Earth's peace and democratic ideals under siege from extraterrestrial threats. The opening sequence alone, rich in satire and visceral violence reminiscent of Paul Verhoeven's directorial flair, sets a compelling stage for the narrative. It's essentially a recruitment drive for the Helldivers, tasked with safeguarding democracy across the cosmos.

Designed for up to four players, the ideal experience behind Helldivers 2 seemingly hinges on teamwork, though the quickplay option intended to bridge player gaps has been non-operational since launch. Arrowhead is reportedly on the case, but the issue persists. Upon assembling a team, players navigate through a constantly evolving warzone, engaging with foes on multiple fronts. At launch, the enemies comprise the Terminids – the only good bug is a dead bug – and the cyborg Automatons, which present a challenge reminiscent of a mechanised Vietnam war scenario.

Helldivers 2, despite its rocky start, embodies the chaotic thrill of interstellar conflict. The game's ability to blend satirical elements with high-octane gameplay invites a comparison to classic science fiction, yet its technical troubles cannot be overlooked. I thought the juxtaposition of Helldivers 2's potential against its current limitations presents a dichotomy as intriguing as it is frustrating. The journey ahead for Arrowhead Studios is clear: stabilise the game's infrastructure to fully unleash the exhilarating chaos that lies at the heart of Helldivers 2.

When the digital stars align though, and Helldivers 2's servers decide to grace us with their operational blessing, the gameplay unfolds into an exhilarating escapade. Preparing for a dive into enemy territories involves strategic selection of gear, where players outfit themselves with a primary weapon, a secondary armament, and, crucially, a set of stratagems. These stratagems are the bread and butter of tactical gameplay, ranging from bombardments that rain destruction from above to support utilities that bolster the squad's defenses and resupply capabilities.

It's worth mentioning, and do pay heed here, that friendly fire is not just possible; it's a constant threat and has more than once ruined my day, On the battlefield, ammunition is more than just a resource; it's your lifeline. Unlike the typical shooter where ammo seems to sprout from the ether, Helldivers 2 forces players to consider each reload carefully. Prematurely reloading after a skirmish can deplete your reserves faster, given that discarded magazines take any remaining bullets with them. And don't expect the game to nanny you with auto-reloads; it's on you to hit that reload button when the time comes. This was an intentional design choice to heighten tension, as the game pushes you to discover such mechanisms yourself.

This blend of strategic depth and unyielding realism contributes to the chaotic charm of Helldivers 2, although it does come with its own set of challenges. The need for precise ammunition management and the constant vigilance against friendly fire adds layers to the gameplay but also steepens the learning curve. As much as these elements enrich the experience, they underscore the game's penchant for leaving players to their own devices, for better or worse.

The reality is, Helldivers 2 is facing a pivotal moment – its popularity is a double-edged sword, attracting players in droves yet faltering under the pressure of its own success. The concern isn't trivial; the longer these server issues persist, the greater the risk of diminishing the game's vibrant community. Yet, I remain hopeful. The prospect of returning to the fray, united in our quest for freedom and democracy, is too compelling to dismiss.

If you’re looking to jump into Helldivers 2, I’d advise waiting for Arrowhead to resolve these server issues – perhaps in the next 2-3 weeks at least. Otherwise, be prepared for a bumpy ride, complete with potential connectivity woes, sporadic crashes, and the occasional vanishing reward.

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