Helldivers 2 is buzzing with excitement following the launch of its extensive Omens of Tyranny update. This release has propelled the game back into the spotlight, attracting more players than ever since last spring.
Back in early 2024, Helldivers 2 made its grand debut, quickly winning over both fans and critics. It brought a fresh wave of chaos to the gaming scene, setting a high bar for the year. However, its popularity took a hit amid the PSN account-linking controversy, causing some players to step back despite Arrowhead Game Studios’ ongoing updates. Fast forward to the end of 2024, and Helldivers 2 has not only bounced back but also snagged the Best Multiplayer Game award at The Game Awards.
The latest figures from SteamDB reveal that Helldivers 2 has hit a 24-hour peak player count of 150,169. While it hasn’t surpassed its all-time high of 458,709, this is still the biggest surge since the controversy in May. The game has consistently maintained a community of 25,000 to 50,000 players, so this recent uptick is a notable leap forward.
Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter. The Omens of Tyranny update, which dropped during The Game Awards, is no small feat. It reintroduced the well-loved Illuminate faction and brought in fresh urban missions and a new vehicle, the Fast Recon Vehicle, to spice up gameplay. By tackling key fan complaints, it seems to have successfully drawn players back for another shot.
Despite the success of Omens of Tyranny, Arrowhead Game Studios isn’t slowing down. There’s plenty more on the horizon for 2025, including whispers of a Killzone crossover. While nothing is confirmed, gamers can look forward to more announcements as we roll into the new year.
For those ready to jump into the action, Helldivers 2 offers a unique co-op experience on PS5 and PC. Band together with up to three friends and take on an alien threat lurking in the galaxy. Becoming a Helldiver isn’t just about blowing things up—though there’s plenty of that—it’s about strategy, collaboration, and bringing peace to Super Earth in the most explosive way possible.