Helldivers 2 not working on PS5 (Updated October 2024)

Helldivers 2 continues to be a fan favorite, particularly on the PS5, where its stunning graphics and smooth gameplay have captivated players. However, as with any newly-released game, some users still facing issues in September 2024 when trying to get the game to work correctly on their consoles.

Identifying Common Issues

Common issues such as random crashes, connectivity issues with multiplayer mode, and freezing during intense gameplay sequences are still being reported, even after the latest update.

Impact on Gamers

The frustration of constant interruptions or an inability to play multiplayer leads to overall disappointment, dampening the excitement and engagement players expect from the game.

Troubleshooting Helldivers 2 on PS5

Many users report that crashes have decreased after patch 1.04, but issues with multiplayer matchmaking persist. Be sure to install all available updates and keep an eye on future patches. We have already discussed troubleshooting Helldivers 2 on PC in a previous article. If you’re having launching or crashing issues on your PS5, please follow the tips below:

Check Server Status:

Recently, users have noticed an uptick in server outages during peak gaming times, so always start by checking Downdetector for any server-related issues before diving into other troubleshooting steps.

Ensuring Compatibility

Helldivers 2 received significant updates to improve PS5 compatibility, so always ensure that both your console and game are running the latest software.

The PS5 Compatibility Check

First things first, let’s talk about the heart of the matter: compatibility. Not all games designed for the PS4 will play nice with your PS5, due to the intricate dance of software and hardware. However, Helldivers 2 has been flagged by many as PS5-compatible, which means you’re mostly in the clear. But, like ensuring your favorite old vinyl plays smoothly on a new turntable, there are steps to take:

1. Check the Game Version: Start by ensuring your copy of Helldivers 2 is the latest version. Game developers often release patches to enhance compatibility with newer consoles.
2. Look for PS5 Updates: Sometimes, the key to compatibility lies in a PS5 system update. Sony continuously releases updates to enhance backward compatibility with PS4 titles.
3. Consult Official Sources: Dive into the PlayStation official website or Helldivers 2 forums. These treasure troves of information can offer specific insights into any known compatibility issues and fixes.

Step	Action	Description
1	Check Game Version	Ensure your Helldivers 2 is up-to-date with the latest version available.
2	PS5 System Updates	Verify that your PS5 system software is current, as updates often enhance compatibility with PS4 games.
3	Consult Official Sources	Visit the PlayStation website or Helldivers 2 forums for any specific compatibility announcements or solutions.
4	Adjust Game Settings	Explore in-game settings that might be optimized for better performance on PS5.
5	Use PS5 Compatibility Mode	Utilize the PS5’s compatibility mode designed for playing PS4 games more smoothly.
6	Seek Community Advice	Check gaming communities for shared experiences and potential workarounds from other players.

Bridging the Compatibility Gap

Even with all systems go, there might be hiccups. Here’s how to smooth them out:

• Adjust Game Settings: Some PS4 games offer adjustable settings that can improve performance on PS5. Explore Helldivers 2 settings for any such options.
• PS5 Compatibility Mode: The PS5 offers a compatibility mode for PS4 games. Accessing this mode can enhance how Helldivers 2 runs on your console.
• Community Wisdom: Don’t underestimate the power of community knowledge. Gaming forums and Reddit threads can be goldmines for workarounds discovered by fellow gamers.

When Compatibility Isn’t the Issue

If Helldivers 2 still isn’t cooperating, it might not be a compatibility issue. Check your PS5’s health: storage space, system updates, and even the integrity of the game files. Sometimes, the solution lies where we least expect it.

Patches/Updates

Must Check Out the latest Helldivers 2 patch (v1.001.100), which introduces key updates and balance adjustments. Thermite grenade damage has been boosted from 100 to 2000, and a Galactic War system has been implemented to enhance strategic gameplay. Equipment tweaks such as a stun effect for the Tesla Tower and improved sentry gun stagger enhance tactical options, while enemy balance changes, including health and armor adjustments for the Hulk, Berserker, and Impaler, further optimize combat dynamics.

The patch also resolves significant crash issues and soft-locks. Fixes include addressing crashes from unique skins timing out, vehicle skin sync issues, and galactic war hologram interactions. Other stability improvements target rare in-game crashes like Bile Spewers’ attacks and mission objective failures due to host migration. Players should now experience smoother gameplay, especially with crashes on PS5 booting or language incompatibility, host migration disruptions, and rare map interactions now resolved.

Clearing Cache

Imagine your PS5 as a high-tech spaceship cruising through the gaming galaxy. Now, what happens when it starts collecting cosmic dust? That’s right, it slows down. Clearing the cache becomes your weapon of choice here, this simple maneuver effectively boosts your system’s performance, especially when Helldivers 2 starts acting up.

Why Clear the Cache?

Think of the cache as a stash of shortcuts your PS5 keeps to load games and apps quicker. Over time, this stash can get cluttered with outdated or unnecessary data, leading to glitches, game freezes, or loading issues. Clearing the cache is like giving your console a fresh start, potentially resolving pesky problems with Helldivers 2.

Step-by-Step Cache Clearance

Fear not, for this process doesn’t require a tech wizard. Follow these simple steps to clear the cache on your PS5:

1. Power Down: Start by fully turning off your PS5, not just putting it into rest mode. Hold the power button until you hear the second beep, signaling a complete shutdown.
2. Unplug for a Bit: Disconnect the power cord from the back of your console. This step might seem like a leap of faith, but it’s crucial for a true cache clearance.
3. Wait It Out: Give your PS5 some alone time, unplugged, for about 2-3 minutes. This brief break allows the system to reset its internal cache.
4. Reconnect and Restart: Plug everything back in and power up your console. Your PS5’s cache is now as clean as a whistle.
5. Check Helldivers 2: Launch Helldivers 2 and observe. With a bit of luck, you’ll notice smoother gameplay and faster load times.

A Word of Caution

While clearing the cache is generally safe, it’s wise to ensure all game data is saved before starting. You wouldn’t want to lose your hard-earned progress in Helldivers 2 due to an oversight.

Reinstalling the Game

Sometimes, the solution is akin to turning back time and starting anew – yes, we’re talking about reinstalling the game. Reinstalling acts as a clean slate, ironing out any wrinkles causing trouble, giving Helldivers 2 a clean slate to run smoothly on your console.

The Why Behind Reinstallation

Before diving into the reinstallation process, let’s understand the ‘why’. Over time, game files can become corrupted due to various reasons – unexpected shutdowns, system glitches, or even cosmic rays (well, maybe not the last one). Reinstalling Helldivers 2 ensures that you’re working with a fresh, uncorrupted set of files, potentially ironing out any wrinkles that were causing trouble.

The Reinstallation Process

Fear not, for reinstalling Helldivers 2 on your PS5 is not rocket science. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth reinstallation:

1. Back Up Your Save Data: First things first, make sure your game progress is safe. Backup your save data to the cloud or a USB drive to avoid any heartbreaking losses.
2. Navigate to Game Settings: Head over to the ‘Settings’ menu on your PS5 dashboard. Find Helldivers 2 under your ‘Storage’ or ‘Game Library’ section.
3. Uninstall the Game: Select Helldivers 2 and look for the ‘Delete’ or ‘Uninstall’ option. Confirm your choice and let your PS5 do its thing.
4. A Brief Interlude: Once uninstalled, take a moment. Maybe brew some coffee or do a quick stretch. Your PS5 is clearing out the old to make way for the new.
5. Reinstall Helldivers 2: Return to your ‘Game Library’, find Helldivers 2, and hit ‘Download’. Ensure a stable internet connection for a smooth download process.
6. Patience is Key: Depending on your internet speed, this might take a while. Use this time wisely – strategize your next Helldivers 2 mission or simply relax.
7. Dive Back In: Once reinstalled, launch Helldivers 2. With a bit of luck and digital magic, you’ll be back to dropping into alien planets in no time.

Optimizing Network Settings

The culprit behind such interruptions is less about the game itself and more about your network’s performance. Optimizing your PS5’s network settings can be the secret weapon you need, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience.

The Importance of a Stable Connection

Helldivers 2 thrives on seamless cooperation and quick decisions, making a stable internet connection paramount. A shaky connection not only disrupts gameplay but can also lead to lost progress and, frankly, a less enjoyable gaming session. Before diving into the network settings, consider the position of your PS5 in relation to your router. Sometimes, a simple relocation can significantly improve your connection stability.

Steps to Optimize Your Network

1. Test Your Connection: Before tweaking settings, assess your current connection. Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Network’ > ‘Connection Status’ on your PS5 and run a connection test. This gives you a baseline to work from.
2. Wired vs. Wireless: Whenever possible, opt for a wired connection. A direct line from your PS5 to the router via an Ethernet cable often provides a more stable and faster connection than Wi-Fi.
3. Adjust DNS Settings: Sometimes, the default DNS servers can be slow or overcrowded. Switching to a public DNS, like Google’s (8.8.8.8 for primary and 8.8.4.4 for secondary), can improve your connection speed and reliability.
4. Limit Bandwidth Hogging Applications: Ensure other devices on your network aren’t eating up bandwidth with heavy downloads or streaming. This is crucial during your gaming sessions.
5. Update Router Firmware: Just like your PS5, your router benefits from the latest firmware updates. Check your router’s manual or online support for guidance on updating its firmware.
6. Set Up Port Forwarding: This advanced step involves configuring your router to forward specific network ports to your PS5. It can improve connection stability and speed for Helldivers 2. The ports you need can usually be found in the game’s support documentation or by contacting the game’s customer support.

Since recent updates to the game, some users report smoother multiplayer connections when using a wired LAN setup.

After Optimization

Once you’ve optimized your network settings, run another connection test on your PS5 to compare the results with your initial test. You should notice an improvement in both speed and stability. Dive back into Helldivers 2 and enjoy the seamless gameplay that a solid network connection can provide.

Advanced Solutions

Updating PS5 Firmware

Stepping into the world of Helldivers 2 with all its intergalactic glory demands not just skill but also a PS5 that’s running at peak performance. This is where updating your PS5 firmware comes into play. It’s akin to giving your spaceship the latest navigation updates before embarking on a deep-space mission. Keeping your console’s firmware updated ensures compatibility, enhances security, and sometimes, even introduces new features that can enrich your gaming experience.

Why Firmware Updates Matter

Firmware updates are the unsung heroes in the gaming world. They work behind the scenes to fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and enhance the overall functionality of your PS5. For games like Helldivers 2, which might receive updates and patches themselves, having your PS5 firmware up to date ensures that everything runs smoothly together, minimizing crashes and gameplay interruptions.

Steps to Update Your PS5 Firmware

Updating your PS5’s firmware is straightforward and crucial for a seamless gaming experience. Follow these steps to ensure your console is up to date:

1. Power Up and Connect: Start by turning on your PS5 and ensuring it’s connected to the internet. A stable connection is key for a smooth update process.
2. Navigate to Settings: From the PS5 home screen, head over to the ‘Settings’ menu, symbolized by the gear icon.
3. System Software Update: Scroll down to ‘System’ and select ‘System Software Update and Settings’. Here lies the gateway to your PS5’s firmware updates.
4. Update and Install: If an update is available, your PS5 will notify you. Select ‘Update System Software’ and then ‘Update Using Internet’. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the update.
5. The Waiting Game: Firmware updates can take some time, depending on your internet speed and the size of the update. Be patient, as this is crucial maintenance for your console.
6. Automatic Updates: To ease future updates, enable ‘Automatic Updates’ in the ‘System Software Update and Settings’ menu. This way, your PS5 stays updated without needing manual intervention.

Post-Update Checks

After the update, it’s wise to give your PS5 a quick test run. Load up Helldivers 2 and check for any noticeable improvements or changes in performance. Firmware updates can sometimes tweak system functionalities that affect how games run, so keeping an eye out for any differences is key.

Resetting the PS5

Venturing into the vast universe of Helldivers 2 on your PS5 can sometimes encounter turbulence, not from enemy fire, but from the console itself acting up. When troubleshooting steps like clearing cache or updating firmware don’t smooth out the ride, a factory reset might be the last resort. Think of it as a hard reboot for your spacecraft, setting everything back to its original state, giving you a clean slate to start over.

Understanding the Impact of a Reset

Embarking on a factory reset is no small decision. It wipes your console clean of all data, including game saves, profiles, and downloaded games. It’s like erasing the ship’s logbook and starting anew. Before proceeding, ensure you’ve backed up your vital data to the cloud or an external storage device to safeguard your interstellar journey in Helldivers 2.

Preparing for the Reset

1. Back Up Your Data: Use the PS5’s cloud storage for PlayStation Plus members or an external USB drive to back up your game saves and other important data.
2. Sync Trophies: Navigate to your profile and select ‘Trophies’ to sync any achievements with PlayStation Network, ensuring no heroic deeds go unrecognized.

Steps to Reset Your PS5

1. Navigate to System Settings: From the PS5 home screen, go to the ‘Settings’ menu, symbolized by the gear icon at the top right.
2. Select System Software: Scroll down to the ‘System’ section and select ‘System Software’.
3. Choose Reset Options: Within the system software settings, you’ll find ‘Reset Options’. This is the gateway to restoring your PS5 to its factory state.
4. Pick Your Reset Type: You’ll be presented with a couple of choices, ‘Reset Your Console’ or ‘Reset and Keep Games and Apps’. For a full cleanse, choose ‘Reset Your Console’.
5. Confirm Your Decision: The PS5 will ask for confirmation, as this step is irreversible. If you’re ready, confirm to initiate the reset process.
6. The Waiting Game: The reset process will take some time. Your PS5 will restart several times. Patience is key here.

After the Reset

Once the reset is complete, your PS5 will be as it was when you first unboxed it. You’ll need to:

1. Set Up Your PS5: Go through the initial setup process, reconnecting to your Wi-Fi, signing into your PlayStation Network account, and adjusting your preferred settings.
2. Restore Your Data: Download your games, apps, and restore your saved data from the cloud or your external USB drive.
3. Reinstall Helldivers 2: Download and reinstall Helldivers 2 from your library and get ready to jump back into action.

Some alternative solutions

When troubleshooting Helldivers 2 on your PS5 doesn’t quite go as planned, and the usual fixes like resetting, updating firmware, or optimizing network settings fall short, it’s time to explore some alternative solutions. These unconventional approaches might just be the key to getting back into the game without further hiccups.

Exploring Game-Specific Settings

Sometimes, the solution lies within the game itself. Dive into Helldivers 2‘s settings menu and play around with the video and gameplay options. Lowering graphic settings or adjusting the frame rate can sometimes alleviate performance issues, making for a smoother gaming experience even if your PS5 is acting up.

PS5 Safe Mode Troubleshooting

Entering Safe Mode on your PS5 can open up a new array of troubleshooting options that aren’t available through the standard menus:

1. Enter Safe Mode: Turn off your PS5, then press and hold the power button until you hear the second beep to enter Safe Mode.
2. Rebuild Database: This option scans the drive and creates a new database of all content. It can resolve issues without deleting your data.

Reviewing Audio Settings

Believe it or not, certain audio settings can sometimes interfere with game performance. In the PS5 settings, experiment with different audio output formats. Switching from Bitstream to PCM, for example, has been known to resolve some game-related issues.

Disabling HDMI Link

The HDMI Device Link feature, while convenient for controlling your PS5 with your TV’s remote, can sometimes cause conflicts with games. Try disabling this feature in the System settings to see if it makes a difference in how Helldivers 2 runs.

Managing Extended Storage

If you’re using an external hard drive for extended storage, consider the following:

• Reformat the External Drive: Sometimes, the drive’s format can cause issues. Back up any data and reformat the drive through the PS5 settings.
• Install Helldivers 2 on Internal Storage: Move Helldivers 2 from the external to the internal storage. Games often run more smoothly when played from the console’s built-in storage.

Seeking Further Help

Advise on when and how to contact Sony or the game’s support team for unresolved issues, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional assistance when basic troubleshooting fails.

• PlayStation Official Site: For the most authoritative information on compatibility, updates, and support, visit the PlayStation Official Website. Here, you can find details about Helldivers 2, including system requirements, updates, and user guides specifically designed for PS5 users.
• PlayStation Support: For troubleshooting and support directly from Sony, the PlayStation Support Page is your go-to resource. It offers step-by-step guides and solutions for common issues, including compatibility checks and system updates.
• Helldivers 2 Forums: Engage with the community and seek advice from fellow gamers on the Helldivers 2 Official Forum. Real-life experiences, tips, and workarounds shared by players can provide valuable insights not found in official guides.
• Reddit Community: The Reddit community for Helldivers 2 (r/Helldivers) is a vibrant space to discuss the game, share experiences, and find solutions to common problems, including compatibility issues on PS5.

Conclusion

Summarize the key points covered in the article, reiterating the importance of following each troubleshooting step carefully and reminding readers that while encountering issues with Helldivers 2 on PS5 can be frustrating, there are multiple avenues to resolve these problems and get back to enjoying the game.