Arrowhead Studios has launched Galactic Emergency—a large-scale, time-limited event where players must face the Illuminates, a highly advanced alien faction that has long been teased and now fully enters the intergalactic war.

Illuminate Invasion: Helldivers 2 New Enemies

The Illuminates bring with them an arsenal of dangers that players have yet to encounter. Stingray assault drones provide devastating air support with precise airstrikes, while Crescent Overseers strike at cohesive units. However, the most terrifying enemy is the Fleshmob—a grotesque mass of flesh and limbs acting as a ruthless enforcer for the faction.

Gameplay Changes: Combat Mechanics and Weapon Customization

The combat system has undergone a massive overhaul. Enemies have grown stronger, special bosses have emerged, and team tactics have become critically important. The update also brings enhanced support mechanics and an improved respawn system that encourages coordination and pre-mission planning.

To counter the onslaught, players can now customize their primary weapons more interestingly. They can unlock muzzle attachments, alter characteristics—such as magazine capacity and muzzle brake type—and apply new visual patterns. Improvements are unlocked with requisition points tied to weapon proficiency levels.

Warbonds, Store, and Rewards in Galactic Emergency Helldivers 2 

Alongside the extraordinary event, the in-game marketplace has been updated—all items are now available permanently, without rotation. A new war bond called Masters of Ceremony will appear on May 15, offering even more cosmetic elements and weapon customizations.

Players have significant incentives to take on the challenge in the new event, as they can earn new exclusive armor suits, emblems, exosuits, and other exciting rewards for completing missions.

Helldivers 2 Illuminate update Galactic Emergency is now available on PlayStation 5 and PC. Arrowhead Studios continues to actively monitor game balance, paying attention to player feedback and enriching Helldivers 2 with new content, strengthening the game's reputation as one of the most successful in the live-service segment.

Below you can watch the Helldivers 2 — Galactic Emergency trailer: