Liberating the galaxy in Helldivers 2 is outright awesome. Unlocking new solar systems and threats as a community can be gloriously punishing, but what about facing off against other PS5 players? Well, if you’re hoping that Helldivers 2 PvP becomes a reality, Arrowhead Game Studios is going to let you down – it says it will “never” add a PvP mode, but it has a very good reason.
We already reckon that Helldivers 2 is one of the best PS5 games out there, as we’ve spent countless hours calling in Orbital Strikes, Laser Canon’s, and many of the best Helldivers 2 weapons available. However, we won’t be using them on other players willingly, as creative director Johan Pilestedt clarifies “we’ll never add a PvP-mode” in the future. Pilestedt believes that keeping this aspect out of the game is beneficial for the community, saying that “this [choice] is to reduce toxic elements from the community.”
At present, Helldivers 2 focuses on bringing PS5 and PC players together, working tactically to eliminate parasites and cyborgs across the galaxy. Friendly Fire is turned on, though, meaning you can accidentally eliminate your friends in the heat of battle. Well, we’re calling it accidental anyway – just don’t tell our friends. With no PvP mode in the works, Pilestedt adds that “we want an environment that’s supportive, fun and where we all are fighting on the same side.”
If you are looking for a PvP skirmish, Pilestedt isn’t afraid to recommend another title, and it just so happens to be one of the best FPS games around. Suggesting that Helldivers 2 players check out Escape From Tarkov if they want a PvP battle, the creative director puts further emphasis on cultivating a positive experience while playing Arrowhead’s latest shooter: “We make games for people that just want to have a challenging time with friends but in a PvE setting.”
However, for PS5 players, you won’t be able to play Tarkov as it’s PC-only… we certainly recommend The Finals instead if you want a PvP fix.
You might be disappointed that Helldivers 2 PvP isn’t happening, but hey, there are better things coming from the new PS5 game. Arrowhead Game Studios is looking to “beef up” its team for its post-launch plans, and it has some outlandish ideas that could really shake up the battlefield going forward in one of the best co-op games to play right now.