Helldivers 2: Is It Worth It On PS4?

Hey gamers, are you ready to dive headfirst into the chaotic, explosive, and utterly addictive world of Helldivers 2? If you're pondering whether this co-op shooter is worth your time and money on the PS4, you've come to the right place. In this review, we'll break down everything you need to know about Helldivers 2 on the PS4, from its gameplay and graphics to its performance and overall value. So, buckle up, grab your favorite weapon, and let's get into it!

Unveiling the Gameplay: A Symphony of Destruction

Helldivers 2 throws you and up to three friends into a galactic war against alien threats. You play as a Helldiver, part of an elite squad tasked with liberating planets from relentless enemies. The gameplay is all about teamwork, strategic deployment of stratagems (powerful abilities and support), and embracing the glorious chaos of battle. One of the best aspects of the gameplay is its incredible focus on cooperative play. Success hinges on your ability to communicate, coordinate attacks, and cover each other's backs. Forget lone-wolfing it, because in Helldivers 2, you're part of a squad, and every decision impacts the entire team. The game's mechanics encourage players to embrace the mayhem, with friendly fire being a constant threat and a source of hilarious, yet strategic, blunders. Imagine calling in a massive orbital strike, only to have a teammate wander into the blast zone. These moments create an unforgettable experience.

The game offers a variety of mission types, from defending strategic points to destroying alien nests. Each mission requires a unique approach and forces players to adapt to constantly changing circumstances. The enemy AI is surprisingly challenging, and the sheer number of bugs (literally and figuratively) and automatons you'll face keeps you on your toes. The depth of the gameplay is one of the many reasons why Helldivers 2 is so good. The strategic element is provided by the use of stratagems, which require the player to input a directional code (like a cheat code) to call in different types of support (such as airstrikes, supply drops, or powerful weapons). These stratagems add a layer of complexity to the gameplay and encourage players to learn and master a variety of different combinations. The game also features a progression system that allows players to unlock new weapons, armor, and stratagems, giving a sense of accomplishment and encouraging players to keep playing and fighting for Super Earth.

Helldivers 2 isn't just a shooter; it's a strategic experience that blends action and tactical decision-making seamlessly. You'll be constantly making split-second decisions, managing resources, and adapting to the ever-changing battlefield. This makes every mission feel unique and engaging, and always keeping you on the edge of your seat. So, if you're looking for a game that offers a rewarding blend of action, strategy, and cooperative gameplay, then Helldivers 2 is definitely one to consider.

Graphics and Performance on PS4: A Visual Feast or a Performance Struggle?

Now, let's talk about the visuals and performance of Helldivers 2 on the PS4. Given the PS4's hardware limitations compared to its newer counterparts, it's essential to assess how well the game runs and looks on the older console. The game's visuals are good and it has a distinctive art style. The environments are detailed, the character models are well-designed, and the explosions and visual effects are over-the-top, creating a sense of scale and intensity. The game uses a third-person perspective, which helps in terms of providing an excellent view of the battlefield. The camera angle also provides the player with a great overview of their surroundings and lets them plan their attacks effectively.

However, it's essential to understand that on PS4, the graphics are inevitably dialed back. While the game still looks great, you can expect lower resolution, less detailed textures, and some visual compromises. The frame rate is also a critical factor. The PS4 version aims for 30 frames per second (fps), which can sometimes dip during intense firefights with lots of enemies and explosions on screen. It's the nature of older consoles to show some performance drops, but the game is still enjoyable. The developers have optimized the game well, considering the hardware limitations, and that is to be commended. The game runs smoothly, and the players still have an enjoyable experience, even during those intense moments where the battlefield is swarming with enemies.

While the PS4 version might not offer the visual fidelity of the PS5 or PC versions, the core gameplay experience remains intact. The strategic depth, the cooperative action, and the sense of chaotic fun are all present and accounted for. While playing on PS4, the game is still really playable and you'll find yourself having loads of fun with your friends. So, if you're primarily concerned with gameplay, the PS4 version of Helldivers 2 delivers a fun and engaging experience. But if you value top-notch graphics and a consistently high frame rate, you might want to consider the PS5 or PC versions if you have access to them.

Multiplayer Mayhem: Teaming Up for Victory

Helldivers 2 is all about teamwork, and the multiplayer experience is where the game truly shines. You can team up with up to three other players, which offers a great combination of strategic planning, and coordinated execution. Communication is key, and you'll quickly learn to rely on your teammates to cover your back, share ammo, and call in those critical stratagems when things get hairy. The game's built-in voice chat is also a great addition, making it easy to coordinate with your squad without having to jump into a separate app. The social aspect of the game is also well-developed, with the game encouraging players to celebrate their victories together, and share their experiences and funny stories.

The gameplay allows for a wide range of different team compositions and playstyles, which makes for a dynamic and replayable experience. Whether you prefer to be the sniper, the support player, or the run-and-gunner, there is a role for everyone in Helldivers 2. The multiplayer experience can be the deciding factor when choosing this game. The feeling of camaraderie, the adrenaline rush of completing a challenging mission, and the shared laughs make for a truly unique gaming experience. The developers have also done a great job of keeping the game updated with new content, which means there is always something new to look forward to and keep players engaged. The developers keep adding new weapons, armor, and stratagems, and also new enemy types, missions, and planets to explore. This ensures that the game stays fresh and exciting for players.

If you're looking for a multiplayer game that puts a strong emphasis on cooperation, action, and strategic thinking, then Helldivers 2 is a must-play. The fun of playing with friends, the depth of the gameplay, and the constant updates from the developers make this a top-tier multiplayer title.

The Verdict: Is Helldivers 2 Worth It on PS4?

So, after breaking down the gameplay, graphics, and performance of Helldivers 2 on the PS4, the big question remains: Is it worth it? The answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats. If you are a fan of cooperative shooters and don't mind a few graphical compromises, then Helldivers 2 on PS4 is a blast. The game's engaging gameplay, strategic depth, and the chaotic fun of its multiplayer experience are all present, making it a highly enjoyable title. You'll spend hours fighting alien threats and laughing with your friends as you make your way through the missions.

However, it's worth noting that if you have access to a PS5 or a high-end PC, you might have a slightly better experience. The PS5 and PC versions offer superior graphics and a higher frame rate. But, the differences in graphics aren't so stark that it makes the PS4 version unplayable or unenjoyable. You may encounter some minor performance issues, especially during intense battles with many enemies on screen. The developers have done an excellent job of optimizing the game for the PS4. The core gameplay remains the same, and the experience on PS4 is still a lot of fun. The game is still playable, and the experience is still enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities and the hardware available to you.

If you value gameplay and enjoy fun gameplay experiences, and want to experience the fun of this cooperative shooter, then the PS4 version is a great option. If you have the option, and if you are concerned with graphical fidelity and consistently high frame rates, you may consider the PS5 or PC version. But, even if you do choose to play on PS4, you're sure to have a blast battling aliens, unleashing stratagems, and laughing along with your friends. So, suit up, Helldiver, and prepare to spread democracy across the galaxy. You won't regret it!