How PlayStation Plus' newest edition makes social media its superpower

PlayStation Plus recently added the smash-hit multiplayer game Helldivers 2 to its roster of Extra games, and it’s got a lot more going for it than you’d think.

Helldivers 2 is a ludicrously fun game, especially with friends, but what makes it stand out from all the rest is the way it delivers its content.

Several free in-game updates have been released, adding some awesome content additions and paid collaborations with other sci-fi franchises like Halo and Warhammer 40k.

However, what keeps the game truly alive is its social media presence. The war for peace and democracy isn’t restricted to the game itself; developer Arrowhead does its best to make it feel real.

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How Helldivers makes its players part of the lore, and why that’s been so effective

The official Helldivers 2 X account provides numerous updates on what’s coming to the game.

It does this by roleplaying as the Super Earth government, begging brave individuals to take up arms and join the Helldivers.

An example post reads: “Breaking news! Super Earth is nearing completion of a gateway on Rirga Bay to enter the void. Illuminate monstrosities are attacking the gateway, but our brave SEAF forces are holding the line. Now it’s time for Helldivers to lead the vanguard into the Void!”

It alludes to in-game activity that concurrent players will want to get involved with, but it does wonders for new players too.

Many will probably remember the excitement that surrounded the game’s Xbox port. PlayStation and PC users had been begging for reinforcements for months, hoping the Xbox players would drop in for an assist. Eventually they did, bringing with them some swanky Halo-themed cosmetics.

A simple port was turned into a heroic affair, which is especially effective for anyone with FOMO.

It’s ironic, really. Helldivers aren’t exactly the ‘heroes’ of the story. The game takes a Starship Troopers approach and leaves you questioning whether you’re actually one of the good guys in this tale, but don’t let your fellow Helldivers hear that…

Everything Helldivers 2 does is in service of the ongoing narrative, and unlike other live-service games like Fortnite, for instance, the way it goes about this is ensuring players feel like they’re part of the action.

When Super Earth tells you that it’s under attack and needs defending, it’s not just telling you about some challenging missions to undertake; it’s a direct order to hop on and do your job.

Helldivers 2 is out now for PlayStation Plus subscribers, and we’d recommend it if you and your friends are looking for something new to play.

It can be played solo if you’d prefer that. You’ll just get partnered up with other online players, but it’s best enjoyed when you and your team can communicate.

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscribers have access to this title.

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