Welcome back, Variants. After some well earned rest and relaxation it is time to dive back into game reviews. Speaking of diving… I’ve been thoroughly enjoying Helldivers 2. Like many others, I was drawn in by the recruitment video in the early part of 2024. As an avid Sci-Fi enjoyer, I was hooked immediately and couldn’t wait to post a Helldiver 2 Review. (See bottom of post for trailer and clarity)
For those who have not joined the ranks of Super Earth’s finest, allow me to bring you the enlightenment of Democracy. Helldivers 2 is the sequel to Helldivers (ah yes, the stellar reporting from yours truly) and both games were developed by Arrowhead Studios and published by Sony. While Helldivers was a top down shooter of middling success, its sequel is a third person shooter similar to classics like Left 4 Dead and Gears of War. The missions are team based, with four players dropping from orbit to complete various objectives against multiple enemy factions: Automatons (Bots), Terminids (Bugs), and most recently added, the Illuminate (Aliens/Squids). During each mission, players can complete side objectives for extra experience and find in-game currency, different weapons, and upgrade material across the mission maps.
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The gameplay is great, but not what got me hooked on this game. At time of writing, this Skull Admiral can attest that the lore and way both players and the developers role play. The developers have taken the role of Super Earth High Command, and all gameplay and story updates are given to players in character. Unlockable content that has been added to the game comes in as a Warbond, rather than DLC or a game update, though it serves the same function. New events are given to players from High Command. Even when out of game events like Sony trying to impose mandatory PSN sign in for all players, the players addressed the issue in character, acting as troopers of the Helldivers working against a corporate takeover. Let’s not forget when the Helldivers liberated a planet to save an in-game children’s hospital, causing Arrowhead Studios to do the same by donating to the Save the Children non-profit organization, making a real life difference for sick children and their families.
Recently, the Illuminate, an alien force returning from the first game, launched a series of attacks in the most recent content update, Omens of Tyranny. Helldivers fought tooth and nail to repel the aliens, who were using brainwashed humans as the majority of their army. With 5 minutes to spare, the players repelled the Illuminate in one of the most costly campaigns in the game since the Battles of Malevelon Creek.
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I have been hooked on this game since launch day. The role play from both fellow players and the developers is unlike any other gaming experience I have had. It’s also a blast to hang out online with friends and fellow gamers by complete missions or campaigns together. If you have not already, I heartily recommend this game! Transmission ended from SES Knight of the Stars.
Have you tried Helldiver 2 yet? IF so, what is your Super Destroyers name and do you prefer fighting bots, bugs, or squids? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Be sure to check back here at Variant Ventures for all things gaming and entertainment!
