Helldivers 2 Crossovers Consulted But Deliberately Excluded

Helldivers 2 Creative Director Dreams of Epic Crossovers, But Prioritizes Game's Identity

Johan Pilestedt, creative director of Helldivers 2, recently revealed his wish list for potential game crossovers, sparking excitement among fans. His initial tweet praising the tabletop game Trench Crusade led to discussions about a possible collaboration, a prospect enthusiastically received by both parties.

However, Pilestedt quickly tempered expectations, citing numerous challenges. He later clarified these were simply "fun musings," not concrete plans. He then unveiled a broader list of dream crossovers, including iconic franchises like Starship Troopers, Terminator, Warhammer 40,000, Alien, Predator, Star Wars, and Blade Runner.

The allure of such collaborations is undeniable, especially given the popularity of crossover content in live-service games. Helldivers 2's intense combat and alien battles seem perfectly suited for these partnerships. Yet, Pilestedt emphasizes the importance of maintaining the game's unique satirical, militaristic tone. He fears that incorporating too many crossovers would dilute the Helldivers 2 identity, creating an experience that feels inauthentic.

While open to both large and small crossover elements (e.g., a single weapon or a character skin), Pilestedt stresses these are personal preferences, and no decisions have been finalized. This cautious approach is appreciated by many, who see it as a commitment to preserving the game's cohesive universe and avoiding the pitfall of excessive, incongruous crossover content that plagues some live-service titles.

The ultimate decision rests with the developers. While the potential for exciting crossovers exists, Arrowhead Studios' priority remains the integrity of the Helldivers 2 experience. Whether Super Earth soldiers will one day battle Xenomorphs alongside Jango Fett or the Terminator remains to be seen, but the possibility certainly fuels the imagination.