Helldivers 2's creative director, Johan Pilestedt, recently revealed his dream crossovers for the game, sparking excitement among fans. This article explores Pilestedt's wish list and his reasoning behind potentially avoiding some collaborations.
Pilestedt's Crossover Aspirations
The discussion began with a tweet praising the tabletop game Trench Crusade. This led to a playful exchange, hinting at a possible crossover. While initially enthusiastic, Pilestedt later acknowledged the significant challenges involved in such collaborations.
He subsequently shared a more extensive list of dream crossovers, including iconic sci-fi franchises like Starship Troopers, Terminator, Predator, Star Wars, Alien, and Blade Runner. However, Pilestedt emphasized the potential risk of diluting the game's unique satirical, militaristic identity if too many collaborations were pursued. He stated that including all these franchises would create a game that feels less like Helldivers.
The Appeal of Crossovers
The popularity of crossover content in live-service games is undeniable. Helldivers 2's intense alien battles and detailed combat seem ideally suited for partnerships with major franchises. However, Pilestedt prioritizes maintaining the game's cohesive universe and tone.
A Measured Approach
While open to both large and small crossover elements (e.g., single weapons or character skins acquired via Warbonds), Pilestedt stresses that these remain personal preferences, with no firm decisions made. This cautious approach is appreciated by many, contrasting with the trend of live-service games often overwhelming players with numerous, sometimes incongruous, additions.
The Future of Helldivers 2 Crossovers
The final decision on implementing crossovers rests with Arrowhead Studios. While the potential for seamless integration of certain franchises exists, the ultimate realization of these crossovers remains uncertain. The prospect of Helldivers facing Xenomorphs alongside Jango Fett or the Terminator is certainly intriguing, but whether it aligns with the game's core identity is a key consideration.
