Helldivers 2 Poised to Be the Next Starcraft Successor

Real-time strategy games have been in a bit of a slump recently, but Helldivers 2 might just have what it takes to rekindle people’s passion for the genre. Blizzard’s neglect of Starcraft, despite its loyal fanbase, could potentially pave the way for Arrowhead to introduce a competitor within the Helldivers 2 universe.

Arrowhead Studios has demonstrated its ability to evolve, turning Helldivers 1 from a modest project into the hit co-op shooter Helldivers 2. The adaptable nature of the franchise, with its large-scale battles for resources spread across vast maps, suggests that Helldivers could be precisely the revitalizing force the RTS genre craves.

Fans of the original Helldivers will recall its unique isometric viewpoint. By weaving in core elements of strategy like building structures and calling in artillery, Helldivers 1 created a compelling tactical loop with its twin-stick shooter dynamics. Fast forward to Helldivers 2, and these strategic pillars have been deftly adjusted to thrive in a third-person view, demonstrating the format’s lasting appeal.

Not just mechanically, but the distinct design of Helldivers’ enemies and maps would lend themselves well to the RTS framework. Each of the game’s three enemy races exhibits unique identities, supporting large unit rosters and bases echoing RTS elements. The bug-like Terminids attack in swarms, reminiscent of the Zerg, using concealed assaults to scatter foes before rolling in their monstrous heavy hitters. Automatons favor a defensive strategy, mixing traditional arms with layers of trenches and minefields. Meanwhile, the Illuminate employ hit-and-run tactics with specialized troops backed by mindless drones, utilizing their mobile bases to bring a new twist to the genre’s core mechanics.

Super Earth’s forces could also become a faction. Broadening the scope of infantry and vehicles would allow them to play differently from typical human factions in other games. Helldivers 2 has shown what can be accomplished by a small, strategically-minded unit, setting the stage for a new kind of human faction in a Helldivers RTS.

Taking inspiration from previously successful RTS titles, Starcraft offers a solid foundation. It combines immense armies, resource management, and diverse factions. But it’s not alone. Dawn of War, particularly its Dark Crusade expansion, shifted from linear campaigns to a faction-wide battle for planetary dominance. Helldivers could mimic this concept using its always-online galaxy map, potentially linking it with Helldivers 2’s own map to influence a faction’s cosmic aspirations.

Games like Dawn of War 2 and Company of Heroes introduced unique commander systems akin to Helldivers’ stratagems, granting each faction powerful global abilities. Expanding on these ideas, a Helldivers RTS could enhance their tactical depth.

Another classic, Age of Empires, offers a slower-paced, large-map gameplay style. Helldivers could adopt this to simulate its factions’ initial planetary landings, battling for resources before evolving into expansive superpowers.

Nevertheless, entering the RTS arena is challenging. Despite Starcraft’s waning popularity not being linked to any direct replacement, the downturn aligns with the MOBA genre’s rise. MOBAs offer more accessibility while maintaining strategic depth, making them more appealing. And though games like Dawn of War and Company of Heroes found success, they never reached Starcraft’s community size.

Total War: Warhammer stands out as a recent notable success, largely by simplifying traditional RTS mechanics to attract newcomers, bolstered by its strong franchise identity.

However, franchise power alone won’t guarantee success. Many franchises have tried and failed to capture the strategy market. The Warhammer universe itself saw Realms of Ruin struggle to find its footing despite its tactical approach. Dawn of War’s struggle with identity in its third installment saw players revert to older versions, further emphasizing that successful models aren’t enough.

For Helldivers to make an impact in the RTS space, it must not rely solely on its brand but must instead distinguish itself by harnessing its most engaging elements and understanding what makes strategy games captivating. Helldivers reshaped the co-op shooter genre and must now reignite love for RTS games through innovation.