Helldivers, the top-down shooter from Arrowhead Game Studios, throws you into the boots of a hardened Helldiver, tasked with purging alien threats from various planets. But be warned, this is no cakewalk. Helldivers is a game that thrives on its punishing difficulty and hilarious team-based chaos. So, strap in, trooper, and let’s see if this descent into mayhem is your cup of tea.
Campaign: 7/10
The campaign is a series of procedurally generated missions, offering replayability but also leading to some repetition. Objectives range from rescuing scientists to securing data, and each planet throws unique enemies and hazards your way. The core gameplay loop is satisfying: strategize with your squad, unleash hellfire upon alien hordes, and scramble to revive fallen comrades (or accidentally teamkill them with friendly fire, a hilarious yet rage-inducing feature). However, the lack of a central narrative can leave some craving more depth.
Gameplay: 8/10
Helldivers shines in its co-op brilliance. Teamwork is essential for survival, demanding communication and coordination to overcome the overwhelming odds. The class system, with various soldier types offering different strengths, adds further strategic depth. The controls are tight and responsive, and the arsenal of weapons and gadgets is impressive, each with its own tactical use. However, the difficulty curve can be brutal, especially for solo players or uncoordinated teams. Prepare for frequent restarts and the ever-present threat of friendly fire.
Presentation: 6/10
The visuals are serviceable but not stunning. The top-down perspective works well for the gameplay, and the alien environments are varied, though not particularly detailed. The sound design, however, is excellent. The booming weapons, frantic music, and over-the-top announcer commentary perfectly capture the game’s bombastic tone.
Verdict:
Helldivers is not for the faint of heart. It’s a challenging, chaotic, and often hilarious experience that demands teamwork and a sense of humor. If you’re looking for a casual shooter, look elsewhere. But if you crave a strategic co-op challenge that thrives on friendly fire and frantic action, Helldivers might just be your hellish paradise.
Scores:
- Campaign: 7/10
- Gameplay: 8/10
- Presentation: 6/10
- Overall: 7.5/10
Additional Notes:
- The game’s community is generally friendly and helpful, making it easier to find competent teammates.
- The DLC adds new content and challenges, but some consider it overpriced.
- The recent launch of Helldivers 2 has divided the community, with some praising the improvements and others lamenting the changes.
I hope this review helps you decide if Helldivers is the right game for you. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work (or devolves into glorious disaster)!
Look out for our upcoming review and other content for Helldivers 2 over at ninjarefinery.com!
