Helldivers 2 review: Once you "dive" in, there’s no coming out!
In the midst of a relentless firefight against a swarm of extraterrestrial foes, my online ally and I found ourselves desperately fending off the onslaught. The odds were stacked against us until a mysterious third player entered the fray, deploying a turret that momentarily granted us respite to reload and catch our breath. Just as the taste of victory was within reach, a well-intentioned bullet from the turret took me down, turning what could have been a triumphant moment into a comically unexpected defeat. Despite the occasional frustration, these unpredictable twists contribute to the hilarity that defines a session of Helldivers 2 – assuming you can successfully log in.
For those not dwelling under a rock, Helldivers 2 has marked its presence with one of the most triumphant launches in the realm of live service games. While the log-in issues and occasional crashes are acknowledged, it’s important to note that these are not unique to Helldivers 2 but rather emblematic of challenges faced by live service games in general. While you wait for a successful login, delve into our comprehensive review below!
Gameplay:
Helldivers 2 doesn’t boast a groundbreaking narrative, but the sheer thrill of battling Terminator-inspired robots and Starship Troopers-esque aliens in defense of “Super Earth” keeps players hooked. The game thrusts you into action after a brief tutorial, allowing solo players to enjoy entertaining missions, though some may prove daunting due to unadjusted difficulty levels. The true magic unfolds when joined by friends or random online companions.
With multiple objectives at hand, Helldivers 2 keeps the gameplay dynamic. While the primary goal is to eliminate bugs, destroy burrows, defeat colossal bosses, or complete other tasks, the core loop of battling aliens and robots remains consistently exhilarating. Additional side objectives, such as exploring random sites or loading missiles into cannons, add complexity and reward players with extra points for unlocking superior gear.
Friendly Fire and Ammo Management:
The inclusion of friendly fire injects an element of chaos, leading to accidental team member casualties. Losing a life is a minor setback, quickly remedied as you plunge back into action. Reload mechanics add another layer of intensity; discarding a half-full clip results in permanent ammo loss, encouraging strategic ammo management during heated battles. The diverse planetary environments, from snow-laden surfaces to grassy landscapes, further intensify the gaming experience.
Calling for specific support, be it a weapon, turret, or ammo, becomes a mini-game, heightening the tension. Mastering complex button combinations amidst the chaos adds strategic depth, making every call for support a calculated risk. Weapon variety, from standard shotguns to armor-piercing sniper rifles, coupled with the need to earn points for unlocks, enhances the game’s replayability.
Graphics and Sound:
While not reaching the visual heights of flagship titles like God of War or Horizon Forbidden West, Helldivers 2 boasts impressive visuals. Explosions feature a rich range of particle effects, and the meticulously detailed guns add to the immersive experience. Realistic character reactions, such as limping when shot in the leg, contribute to the game’s overall polish.
The orchestral score accompanying missions rivals that of Pacific Rim, evoking goosebumps. Weapon sounds, though standard, contribute to the immersive atmosphere, with distinctive voice acting for Helldivers adding a touch of individuality to each playthrough.
Verdict
Helldivers 2 may not be a solitary gamer’s paradise, but for enthusiasts of multiplayer live service games, it’s a delight. Despite occasional server hiccups, the game underscores the significance of a robust core gameplay loop in the live service genre. Whether teaming up with friends or engaging with random players, Helldivers 2 promises a thrilling experience as you face off against hordes of aliens and robots.
Editor’s rating: 8 / 10
Pros:
- Fun gameplay
- Immersive sound design
- Some missions can be enjoyed alone as well
Cons:
- Matchmaking and server issues
