Helldivers 2 is a long-awaited sequel, coming nine years after the first game released on PS4, PS3, and PS Vita. But, while that game supported couch co-op, its sequel isn’t following in its footsteps.

Does Helldivers 2 have local co-op?¶

Helldivers 2 has no local co-op or split-screen play, instead the game is focused on online multiplayer with up to four friends. This is a pretty big departure and fans of the original were disappointed initially about the lack of this in the game. However, taken in full context, very few games this generation have supported local co-op, and even fewer games support it on PC. So, it isn’t too surprising to see Arrowhead Game Studios opt to focus their attention on online play.

Online co-op with your friends can be started almost immediately (you just have to finish a brief tutorial and get acquainted with your role as a Helldiver). Anytime while aboard your ship you can just open the social menu, which involves pressing the right stick on PS5 or the ‘O’ key on PC.

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The social menu allows you to quickly join others or invite them to your ship.

The drop-in and drop-out nature of co-op makes online play incredibly easy in Helldivers 2 and all progression is carried over between co-op and solo play.

As well as playing with your friends, you can also matchmake with others and join random missions in the galactic fight to save Super Earth. This can be done easily from the Galactic War Table in your ship by pressing the square button on PS5 and the interact button on PC. You will join public missions where players have used an SOS Beacon to call in extra support and our how to matchmake in Helldivers 2 guide has even more help.

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Matchmaking is just as easy as inviting and joining your friends.

While online multiplayer may somewhat satiate your desire for co-op play, if you had your heart set on local co-op in Helldivers 2, unfortunately, it isn’t available right now. There is a chance that Arrowhead Game Studios will add this in the future in an update. But, with extra missions, seasonal Warbonds to release, and more, it seems unlikely.

If you are hopping into the game, why not take a read through our guide on how to unlock all weapons in Helldivers 2, that way you can build out your arsenal and take on tougher missions.