Helldivers 2 is not just a hit—it's a phenomenon! The game has recently clinched two prestigious BAFTA Game Awards for Best Multiplayer and Best Music, marking a high point in what has been an extraordinary year for developer Arrowhead Studios.

Since its explosive launch, Helldivers 2 has shattered records, becoming the fastest-selling title for PlayStation Studios, with an astonishing 12 million copies flying off the shelves within just 12 weeks. Yet, the journey hasn’t been without challenges, from account issues on Steam to intense community feedback and balance changes.

An Inside Look with Alex Bolle

In an exclusive interview, IGN sat down with production director Alex Bolle to discuss the game's impact, the team's vision for the future, and the intriguing possibility of collaborations with beloved franchises.

Bolle expressed surprise at the game’s success, reflecting that while they had a sense of optimism, the accolades were beyond their expectations. He reminisced about the thrill of witnessing the game’s journey, recalling a surreal moment during award season when he saw game director Mikael Eriksson shaking hands with celebrity Snoop Dogg.

Community Connection is Key

One of the standout aspects of Helldivers 2’s success, according to Bolle, is their unwavering connection to the community. The developers actively engage with players, absorbing feedback from platforms like Discord and Reddit. This ongoing dialogue helps them refine updates and enhancements based on player desires, which is integral to the game's continual evolution.

A Sustainable Future Ahead

Bolle highlighted the studio’s commitment to developing Helldivers 2 as a live service. With unprecedented player numbers, determining the right balance in catering to different audiences is an ongoing challenge. He emphasized that while the studio enjoys its success, they remain focused on delivering quality experiences without becoming complacent.

A Decade-Long Vision?

When questioned about the possibility of Helldivers 2 being a staple in gaming for years to come, Bolle shared his enthusiasm for maintaining the game's timeless gameplay, hinting at a vision to keep the franchise thriving for the next decade. He stressed the importance of staying true to the game’s essence while continually innovating for a lively and engaging player experience.

Could a Warhammer 40,000 Collaboration Happen?

Fans have been buzzing about potential collaborations, particularly with the Warhammer 40,000 universe. While Bolle was tight-lipped, he acknowledged the excitement around mixing different IPs, citing their successful collaboration with Guerrilla Games on Killzone. He hinted that discussions about incorporating Warhammer 40,000 are indeed happening within the studio, generating intrigue and speculation.

As Helldivers 2 navigates its path forward, one thing is clear: Arrowhead is committed to ensuring that this game not only achieves momentary success but remains a cherished title for years to come. Can we expect to dive into the world of Warhammer 40,000? Only time will tell, but the excitement is palpable!