Helldivers II, the new take on the Helldivers formula from Arrowhead Game Studios and Sony, emerges as a successful blend of chaos and the targeted pursuit of intergalactic democracy across a hostile universe. Released almost a decade after the first game and set in the dystopian universe of Super Earth, players enlist as Helldivers, the frontline soldiers tasked with eradicating the menacing threats of the Terminids and Automatons that loom over the galaxy and our freedom. In this fast-paced, third-person shooter, players are thrust into a relentless battle for survival, armed with a diverse array of weaponry and tactical stratagems.
At its core, Helldivers II delivers an exhilarating co-op experience that shines brightest when played with a full squad of friends – though you can go in as a single player as well. The game’s premise, while inherently satirical and reminiscent of franchises like Starship Troopers, adds a comedic touch to the intense battles players face. Whether it’s mowing down hordes of alien bugs or facing off against formidable Terminator-like robots, each mission is a rollercoaster of triumphs and mishaps, punctuated by moments of sheer chaos and unexpected hilarity.
The switch to a third-person perspective for the sequel proves to be a bold yet successful move by Arrowhead Studios, enhancing the immersive nature of the gameplay. Aiming, shooting, and maneuvering through the vibrant landscapes feel incredibly polished, with each action contributing to the adrenaline-fueled experience. The game’s visuals are impressive as well, boasting stunning lighting effects and smooth 60 frames-per-second performance on the PlayStation 5, accompanied by a stellar soundtrack that adds to the epic atmosphere. This is one of those games that looks better in motion than it does in screenshots, and we were certainly pleasantly surprised.
Helldivers II masterfully balances having awesome powers at your disposal with the harsh reality of on-the-ground combat, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategic thinking. While players wield an arsenal of devastating firepower, they are also reminded of their vulnerability as mere disposable assets in the face of relentless enemy onslaughts. Friendly fire adds an additional layer of challenge, forcing players to exercise caution in their actions and communicate effectively with their teammates rather than using a happy trigger finger.
The mission structure in Helldivers II is both engaging and rewarding, offering a solid mix of main objectives, side missions, and points of interest to explore. As players progress through the game’s difficulty tiers, they are met with increasingly challenging encounters that demand careful planning and coordination. The inclusion of unique stratagems further enriches the gameplay experience, allowing players to call in support weapons, defensive items, and orbital strikes to turn the tide of battle – and much of that is delivered with a bunch of cinematic flair.
However, despite its many strengths, Helldivers II is not without its flaws. The game’s matchmaking issues, particularly at launch, have been a small source of frustration, with some gameplay sessions resulting in occasional crashes and connectivity issues. Additionally, the absence of split-screen local co-op may disappoint some players, and although it aligns with the game’s shift to a third-person perspective this would be a great game for couch co-op as well, which we used to enjoy with the cross-play functionality on the Vita for the first game.
In conclusion, Helldivers II is an exhilarating co-op shooter that excels in delivering exciting action and unforgettable moments of chaos. With its superb gunplay, strategic depth, and captivating multiplayer experience, it stands as one of the best co-op games available on the PlayStation 5 and PC. Despite its minor shortcomings, including matchmaking issues and occasional crashes that are already being addressed, Helldivers II is a must-play for fans of cooperative gaming, offering hours of entertainment and endless opportunities for epic battles in the far reaches of the galaxy.
Score: 8.2/10
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