Helldivers 2 Locks Out Older CPU Users

In a surprising twist for gaming enthusiasts, Helldivers 2 has begun locking out players whose computers are equipped with older CPUs, a move that has ignited frustration among its community.

The developer, Arrowhead Game Studios, alongside publisher Sony, now mandates that all users run systems capable of supporting AVX2 (Advanced Vector Extensions) technology—an instruction set that has been integrated into many CPUs since 2013.

Initially, the game did not enforce this requirement, allowing players with older hardware to enjoy it since its PC launch last year.

However, as reported by Eurogamer, a recent update has led to sudden denials of access for numerous players, triggering a wave of complaints on platforms like Discord.

Community Reaction

One frustrated user expressed their exasperation, lamenting, "After putting over 600 hours into a game I adore, being locked out feels incredibly unfair. I'm seriously considering asking for a refund instead of troubleshooting their errors." Such sentiments have echoed throughout the online community, highlighting a deep sense of betrayal among loyal players.

Developer's Response

In response to these concerns, a server moderator, known as Birby, addressed the unhappy users, remarking that "the AVX2 check in the script is experimental and can yield false positives." The moderator further emphasized that players should have remained mindful of the outlined minimum system requirements, stating, “It’s not pleasant to tell players their 13-year-old processor is outdated. It’s no surprise if a device that doesn’t meet the specs fails to run the game.”

Financial Implications for Players

This situation leaves many fans scrambling for solutions, as those using older CPUs likely possess machines or laptops that are not easily upgradeable.

Unfortunately, this means they may face the daunting prospect of investing in an entirely new system, which can be financially taxing.

Previous Controversies

This controversial requirement isn't the first time Sony has faced backlash from the Helldivers 2 community. Just last year, the company attempted to impose a PlayStation Network (PSN) account requirement on PC players, only to retract it after a storm of negative reviews flooded Steam.

Looking Ahead

In an era where gaming accessibility is paramount, this latest decision raises critical questions about the balance between pushing technological advancements and maintaining inclusivity for all gamers.

With the gaming community feeling left out in the cold, will Sony and Arrowhead Game Studios reconsider their stance? Stay tuned as this story unfolds!