Focus on Fun, Not Politics, Says Helldivers 2 Developer

Helldivers 2 took the gaming world by storm last year, selling over 10 million copies and becoming a cultural phenomenon. As the new year began, the game's creative director engaged fans in a conversation about the future of Arrowhead Game Studios. This discussion touched on the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in games, sparking a lively debate about politics in gaming.

Just before the clock struck midnight on December 31, Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt tweeted, "What are your expectations and desires for what the next Arrowhead game will be? I am working on the high concept, but I would love to hear your speculation."

Fans quickly responded, with one urging, "Never add DEI to your games." This comment referenced the ongoing debate about the role of progressive values in video games. DEI has become a contentious topic, often used as shorthand by critics who oppose its perceived influence on gaming.

Pilestedt, known for his candidness on social media, replied, "If it doesn’t add to the game experience, it detracts. And games should be a pure pursuit of amazing moments."

DEI and Gaming

When asked how DEI would have benefited Helldivers 2, Pilestedt stated, "I don’t like labels. But mankind is united in its extreme xenophobia on Super Earth. Inclusion? So, maybe that’s DEI. I really don’t care. Make good games, don’t make a contemporary political statement."

This response highlights the tension between creating engaging games and addressing contemporary political issues. Helldivers 2, despite its distance from modern controversies, is filled with political allegories and satire.

The Political Undertones of Helldivers 2

• The game features wars fought over oil.
• It includes satire of fascist propaganda.
• The lore is unapologetically political, with themes like "Managed Democracy" being a scam.

While Pilestedt aims to distance Helldivers 2 from online culture wars, the game's content is undeniably political. This creates an interesting paradox for those who view any game with a point they disagree with as overtly political.

The Broader Debate

For some, DEI is seen as a way to criticize games that don't feature diverse protagonists, as seen in reactions to other games like Naughty Dog's Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. This ongoing debate continues to shape the gaming landscape.

Join Streamers Visuals to stay updated on game news and explore a wide range of emotes, sub badges, overlays, and more designs. Dive into the world of gaming with us and be part of the conversation!