Helldivers 2 lead explains why PvP will “never” be added
Arrowhead Game StudiosHelldivers 2 is an incredible co-op experience full of frantic and hilarious action. Devs aim to keep it that way and have elaborated on why we won’t ever see a Helldivers 2 PVP mode.
Helldivers 2 has exploded in popularity thanks to its hectic co-op action. Its engaging mix of third-person gunplay and tactically significant Stratagems make pulping Termanids and bringing democracy to the galaxy an insanely enjoyable time.
The game’s unexpected success has mirrored another early 2024 title that also came out of the blue. Much like Palworld’s development team, Helldivers 2 developer Arrowhead is looking to expand in order to cater to the game’s demand and speed up the rollout of new content.
Unfortunately for some, that new content will not include any competitive multiplayer element. Arrowhead’s CEO Johan Pilestedt explained to fans on X why Helldivers 2 will not be getting PVP.
Responding to a player suggesting that Helldivers 2 add a PVP mode for “hardcore gamers”, Pilestedt explained why it wouldn’t be happening. According to the Dev, a PVP mode is antithetical to the type of gaming experience that Arrowhead wants to provide.
“We’ll “never” add a PvP-mode. This is to reduce toxic elements from the community,” Pilestedt clarified. “We want an environment that’s supportive, fun, and where we all are fighting on the same side!”
In fact, fighting on the same side is baked into Helldivers 2’s limited narrative which involves a unified force taking on the Termanid and Automaton scourge for the sake of glorious democracy. Despite the obvious, Pilestedt and the dev team were accused of being “scared to add PVP”.
“Not scared. Just we don’t want the toxicity that naturally comes with it,” Pilestedt reiterated. “We make games for people that just want to have a challenging time with friends but in a PvE setting.”
Pilestedt’s messaging is consistent with the ethos plastered on the homepage of Arrowhead’s website that has drawn praise online. “A game for everyone is a game for no one,” the quote reads.
The developer does not seem prepared to compromise its vision for Helldivers 2 in order to draw in more players.