Helldivers 2 has rolled out a major update with patch 01.003.000, now available on PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces a host of exciting new features, including fresh enemies from the Illuminate faction, weapon customization and progression, and significant changes to the Superstore.
Following teasing from developer Arrowhead, the new Illuminate invasion brings challenging new adversaries, as detailed in the PlayStation Blog. Among them are the Stingray jetfighters, which support the Illuminate from the skies, targeting Helldivers with deadly strafing runs, and the Crescent Overseer, capable of laying barrages on players even when they're taking cover. Additionally, the Fleshmob, a "failed" Illuminate experiment, is a formidable brute made from Voteless parts that Helldivers must work to take down.
Attention, Helldivers: This is a Galactic Emergency.
The true Illuminate invasion has begun. In a sudden and completely unprovoked offensive manoeuvre, the full Illuminate fleet is emerging from the Meridia Singularity. Nothing is safe - not even the Heart of Democracy itself.
— HELLDIVERS™ 2 (@helldivers2) May 13, 2025
Arrowhead has hinted at the presence of even larger ships, though their abilities remain a mystery, suggesting more surprises await players as they dive into the game.
For the first time, Helldivers 2 introduces weapon customization and progression. Now, players can level up most primary weapons by completing missions, unlocking new attachments through Requisition. Beyond attachments, players can also unlock various weapon patterns.
Whether it's tweaking sights for precision, changing color patterns, adjusting magazines for ammo capacity, muzzles to optimize weapon performance characteristics or adjusting under-barrel attachments for the handling you want, you're in command of how your weaponry performs on the battlefield. This level of individual attunement is sure to make your favorite primary best in its class.
A backlog of patterns themed on the Viper Commandos, Freedom's Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers Warbonds will unlock on May 15 with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.
The Superstore has also been revamped, ensuring that desired items are always available, eliminating the need for players to wait for items to rotate back into stock.
Alongside these new features, patch 01.003.000 includes an extensive balance pass, adjusting elements such as spread, drag, sway, melee weapon stamina cost, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, enhancing overall gameplay.
