A new update has landed for Helldivers 2! Patch 01.003.200 brings enhanced flag-planting capabilities, alongside balance adjustments for various weapons. Considering the latest developments in the Galactic War, that new flag impaling feature might come in handy, as the Automaton forces are now attempting to seize control of a vital Super Earth space station.
Forget about trying to rebrand a city as ‘Gun’ for a moment – significant events are unfolding in Helldivers 2! You’ll want to be informed, if only to celebrate the increased effectiveness of your Flame Sentry.
As is customary for substantial Helldivers 2 updates, patch 01.003.200 comes with detailed release notes and a video explanation. In the video, design director Niklas Malmborg and senior designer Patrik ‘Fluffy’ Lasorta discuss the modifications.
Firstly, the developers have shortened the time it takes for Helldivers to recover after being ragdolled. They’ve also amplified bleed damage from chest injuries, as the previous level was so insignificant that “it appeared to have no effect”. Weapon tweaks are also present, mainly focusing on enhancing the impact of stuns, bayonet-induced stagger, and the incendiary power of items like the aforementioned Flame Sentry.
However, arguably the most notable change is to the Masters of Ceremony warbond‘s One True Flag stratagem. Arrowhead states that “thanks to groundbreaking military research into pointier flag tips, the flag can now be proudly planted directly into enemies — dead or alive — ensuring the eternal colors of Super Earth are never tainted, only quenched by the blood of its foes.” Malmborg notes in the video that “a surprising amount of code” had to be modified to make this possible.
Minor adjustments have been made to Hellpods and enemies. However, the immediate focus shifts to a critical situation. A new Major Order has been issued alongside this patch. The Automaton threat is moving to secure locations vital to the operation of the Democracy Space Station – a hub used by Helldivers to advance Super Earth’s agenda since late last year.
The planets Claorell, Tarsh, and Gaellivare are the key targets for players. Divers are tasked with defending these planets to prevent the DSS from being destroyed or falling into enemy hands. Arrowhead warns that “enemy troop movements indicate this is only the first of several planned waves of attack”, signifying that “additional invasions are anticipated”.
It appears the next primary objective is defending this crucial orbiting station.