The Exciting Omens of Tyranny Update
Helldivers 2, developed by Arrowhead, has just unveiled the highly anticipated Illuminate update, titled Omens of Tyranny. This new content was revealed during The Game Awards 2024 and marks a significant expansion of the game’s universe.
The Illuminate Invasion
With the arrival of the Illuminate, players will face a new wave of enemies as this alien faction begins its invasion of Super Earth planets located in the galactic south. This update introduces several new battle zones, including the game’s first urban environments. These cityscapes are populated with innocent civilians who have fallen under the control of the Illuminate, referred to as the “Voteless” by Super Earth citizens. These civilians behave like mindless zombies, posing a unique threat to players as they attempt to tear them apart.
A Peek into the Future
In an interview with IGN, game director Mikael Eriksson shared insights into the Illuminate’s invasion strategy. The initial assault involves the Illuminate Vanguard Fleet, which is currently not the complete faction. Instead of outright capturing planets, the Illuminate will employ guerrilla tactics. While Eriksson remained tight-lipped about their ultimate goals, he hinted at an evolving narrative in which players can influence the ongoing invasion over several months.
Challenges of Urban Combat
Eriksson highlighted the distinct challenges players will face when battling the Illuminate compared to previous foes like the bots and bugs. The Illuminate present a tougher challenge, particularly in urban settings that feel more restrictive than the previous open environments. Among the most formidable foes are the Harvesters, massive tripodal enemies capable of delivering devastating one-hit kills. Players will also need to contend with hordes of mind-controlled civilians, adding a layer of complexity to the gameplay.
New Arsenal: The Fast Recon Vehicle
To assist in the fight against the Illuminate, players have access to a range of new tools, most notably the Fast Recon Vehicle (FRV). Initially scattered across the map, the FRV can transport a full squad, featuring one driver (manual by default with automatic options for accessibility), two passengers who can lean out to shoot, and one player manning the rear turret. The FRV will only become fully available as a stratagem once the Helldivers 2 community completes a significant order, after which it can be purchased in the traditional way.
Strategic Gameplay Tips
Eriksson suggests players come prepared with anti-tank stratagems to take down various Illuminate vessels, including spawn ships and encounter ships, as well as the powerful Harvesters, all of which are equipped with shields. The new Anti-Tank Emplacement defensive stratagem will be particularly useful, along with support weapons like assault rifles to combat the mind-controlled hordes. Utilizing the FRV to navigate city streets will also enhance mobility during intense battles.
The Expanding Universe of Helldivers 2
The Illuminate now join the ranks of the bugs and bots as the third enemy faction in Helldivers 2, injecting fresh excitement into the game’s explosive third-person co-op action. The title has achieved remarkable success, becoming the fastest-selling game from PlayStation Studios, with an astonishing 12 million copies sold within just 12 weeks of its February launch. Despite facing controversies, including a review-bombing incident due to Sony’s decision mandating Steam users to log into a PSN account, Arrowhead has remained committed to updating the game with new content and balance changes. As a result, recent user reviews on Steam have turned ‘overwhelmingly positive.’
For further insights into the gaming landscape, be sure to explore IGN’s comprehensive round-up of announcements from The Game Awards 2024, showcasing what’s ahead for gamers in the coming years.
