Helldivers 2 Collabs with Star Wars, Aliens and Others Desired, But Purposefully Avoided

Helldivers 2 Creative Director Dreams of Epic Crossovers, But Prioritizes Game Integrity

Johan Pilestedt, creative director of Helldivers 2, recently revealed his wishlist of dream crossovers for the game, sparking excitement among fans. His initial suggestion, a collaboration with the tabletop game Trench Crusade, highlighted the potential for such partnerships. While the Trench Crusade team enthusiastically embraced the idea, Pilestedt cautioned about the challenges involved.

Subsequently, Pilestedt expanded his dream crossover list to include iconic sci-fi franchises like Alien, Starship Troopers, Terminator, Predator, Star Wars, and Blade Runner. However, he emphasized a crucial point: the importance of maintaining Helldivers 2's unique satirical, militaristic identity. He stated that incorporating too many crossovers would dilute the game's core experience, making it feel less like "Helldivers."

The allure of crossovers in live-service games is undeniable, and Helldivers 2's intense combat and alien battles seem perfectly suited for collaborations. Yet, Pilestedt's measured approach demonstrates a commitment to preserving the game's cohesive universe. He's open to both large and small crossover elements – a single weapon or a character skin – but stresses these are merely personal preferences, with no concrete decisions made.

This cautious approach contrasts with the trend of live-service games overflowing with often incongruous crossover content. Arrowhead Studios' prioritization of Helldivers 2's original vision resonates with many players. While the possibility of Super Earth soldiers battling Xenomorphs alongside Jango Fett or the Terminator remains a tantalizing "what if," the final decision rests with the developers. For now, the focus remains on delivering a true Helldivers experience.