Helldivers 2 Single Player Review

Helldivers 2 does not feature a dedicated single-player mode, but you can still play solo.

While it’s feasible to tackle missions alone, the game is designed with cooperative play in mind, which can make solo play particularly challenging. 

Without the support of squadmates, you’ll face the full brunt of enemy forces by yourself.

Lower difficulties might be manageable, but more significant difficulties escalate the number and strength of enemies and mission complexity, presenting significant challenges for solo players. 

Below, you’ll find guidance on Helldivers 2 solo.

How to Play Helldivers 2 Solo?

To play Helldivers 2 solo, ensure you’re alone in your Destroyer when selecting a mission.

Adjust the Matchmaking Privacy settings to ‘friends only’ in the options menu.

This setting will prevent other players from joining your session, even if you activate an SOS beacon. 

Pick a mission from the planet map as usual, avoiding quickplay or SOS beacon missions, to ensure you land on the surface by yourself.

However, is it advisable to play Helldivers 2 solo?

Based on insights from the GamesRadar+ guides team, we recommend it only if you’re prepared for a serious challenge.

While solo play is possible, Helldivers 2’s difficulty significantly ramps up without a full squad. 

Lower difficulties like Trivial and Easy are manageable alone, but Medium and Challenging levels present notable increases in difficulty.

Solo play becomes nearly insurmountable on Hard, Extreme, and higher levels. 

You must be an exceptionally skilled player with advanced Helldivers 2 Stratagems and weapons to play solo on Hard or higher difficulties.

Solo Tips for Playing Helldivers 2

Even though playing Helldivers 2 solo can be more challenging than teaming up with random players, it can sometimes be preferable.

Here are some essential tips for solo play:

• Equip Versatile Gear: As a lone Helldiver, you must be prepared for all enemies. Bring a variety of weapons and Stratagems, including explosives, armor-piercing rounds, and both close- and long-range options to handle any situation.

• Utilize the Shield Generator Backpack: Available from level 20, this support Stratagem provides a regenerating bubble shield crucial for surviving challenging encounters. It’s especially important for solo play when there are higher difficulties.

• Deploy a Guard Dog and Turrets: If you’re not yet at level 20, a Guard Dog, particularly the Rover variant, can be an excellent asset for dealing with groups of weaker enemies. Automated turrets can offer additional firepower and distract foes, giving you time to reload and regroup.

• Practice Stealth: Avoid triggering Bug Bursts and Bot Drops by staying clear of enemy patrols. Keeping a low profile will help reduce the number of enemies you encounter and conserve your ammunition. Remember, enemies are persistent, so evading large-scale confrontations can be crucial.

• Prioritize Speed: The longer you spend on a mission, the more chaotic it becomes. Focus on completing objectives swiftly to minimize the time you’re exposed to increasing enemy waves.

• Opt for Light Armor: Light armor enhances your speed and stamina, vital for maintaining mobility. The Scout passive makes you less detectable and particularly beneficial for solo players.

• Use the SOS Beacon: If you find yourself overwhelmed, you can call for help using an SOS Beacon. While there’s no guarantee someone will join, an additional player might turn the tide in your favor.

Following these tips can improve your chances of success in Helldivers 2, even when going solo.