Helldivers 2 Creative Director Unveils Desired, Yet Deliberately Avoided, Crossovers
Johan Pilestedt, creative director of Helldivers 2, recently revealed his dream crossover collaborations for the game, sparking excitement among fans. His wish list includes iconic franchises like Starship Troopers, Terminator, and Warhammer 40,000, a sentiment initially expressed following a playful exchange with the Trench Crusade tabletop game's social media account.
While enthusiastic about the potential for collaborations, Pilestedt acknowledged the significant challenges involved. He later clarified that these were merely "fun musings," not concrete plans. His ideal crossover roster expanded to include sci-fi giants such as Alien, Predator, Star Wars, and Blade Runner. However, he emphasized the risk of diluting Helldivers 2's unique satirical, militaristic identity if too many collaborations were pursued. He stated that an overabundance of crossovers would create a game experience that deviates from the core Helldivers identity.
The allure of crossovers in live-service games is undeniable, and Helldivers 2, with its intense alien battles and detailed combat, seems perfectly suited for such partnerships. However, Pilestedt prioritizes maintaining the game's cohesive universe and tone. He remains open to both large and small crossover elements—a single weapon or character skin, potentially acquired through in-game currency—but stresses these remain personal preferences, with no firm decisions made.
Arrowhead Studios' cautious approach is appreciated by many, contrasting with the trend of live-service games often overwhelming their settings with excessive crossover content. By prioritizing Helldivers 2's core identity, the developers demonstrate a commitment to preserving the game's unique atmosphere.
The ultimate decision on implementing crossovers rests with the developers. While the potential for franchises like Alien or Star Wars to integrate seamlessly into Helldivers 2's satirical style is intriguing, the future remains uncertain. The prospect of Super Earth soldiers facing Xenomorphs alongside Jango Fett or the Terminator remains a compelling, albeit currently hypothetical, scenario.
