Helldivers Vs. Helldivers 2: Defend Super Earth In Two Dimensions

For players seeking a chaotic co-op experience, the Helldivers series offers a unique blend of humor and challenge.

It was released in 2015, and the original Helldivers became a cult classic for its top-down shooter gameplay and brutal difficulty.

In 2024, its successor, Helldivers 2, charges onto the scene with a third-person perspective and revamped mechanics.

Continue reading to learn the distinct features of Helldivers vs. Helldivers 2.

Table With The Key Differences

Helldivers and Helldivers 2 are cooperative top-down shooter games with a strong emphasis on teamwork and humor.

However, here’s a table illustrating some key differences, representing Helldivers Vs. Helldivers 2:

Shifting Perspectives: From Top-Down To Third-Person

The most striking difference between these galactic guardians lies in their perspective.

Helldivers opt for a classic top-down view, offering a strategic battlefield overview.

This perspective lets players carefully plan their approach.

Further, players can unleash coordinated assaults and strategically deploy support tools.

However, Helldivers 2 throws you headfirst into the action with a third-person over-the-shoulder view.

This shift creates a more immersive experience, letting you feel the heat of battle.

While both approaches bring unique strengths, they also cater to different player preferences.

Top-down fans might miss the strategic planning aspect in Helldivers 2.

Evolving Content: Planets, Missions, And Modes

Both games feature procedurally generated missions across diverse planets.

Helldivers boasts a wider planetary variety, offering more environments to conquer.

However, Helldivers 2 currently focuses on two distinct enemy factions.

Generally, this promises future additions for greater strategic variation.

In terms of mission structure, both titles emphasize objective completion and survival against waves of enemies.

Notably, Helldivers 2 ditches the single-player option, focusing solely on the chaotic charm of cooperative teamwork.

Strategic Depth: Classes, Gadgets, And Friendly Fire

Both games offer various soldier classes, each with unique abilities and equipment.

Helldivers boasts a more complex class system, allowing deeper customization and specialization.

However, Helldivers 2 simplifies the system, making it easier for newcomers to grasp.

When it comes to gadgets and weapons, Helldivers provides a wider arsenal to unleash upon your enemies.

In contrast, Helldivers 2 streamlines the selection, encouraging more focused loadouts.

Perhaps the most contentious difference lies in friendly fire.

In Helldivers, it’s an ever-present danger, adding a layer of tension and requiring meticulous coordination.

Helldivers 2 eliminates friendly fire by default but offers an optional “true Helldivers” mode for teamwork challenges.

Content: Familiar Foes, New Frontiers

Both games feature the same core concept: defending Super Earth from alien invaders.

Helldivers offers two enemy factions and a variety of planets to liberate.

Further, these procedurally generated missions add replayability.

Helldivers 2 currently boasts only two factions and a smaller selection of planets.

However, the procedurally generated missions remain, ensuring a fresh experience each time.

Notably, Helldivers 2 removes the single-player mode, focusing solely on the chaotic cooperative experience.

Choose Your Battlefield

Ultimately, the better game depends on your preferences.

Helldivers is perfect for enjoying top-down tactical, a broader selection of planets and classes, and the threat of friendly fire

However, Helldivers 2 is the best for a more immersive third-person perspective and streamlined systems.

Regardless of your choice, remember the ultimate goal: defend Super Earth, follow orders, and die gloriously.