Helldivers 2 Update: New Enemies, Weapon Customization, and Superstore Overhaul

Helldivers 2 has rolled out a significant update with patch 01.003.000, now available on both PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces a host of new features, including the much-anticipated Illuminate enemies, weapon customization and progression, and changes to the Superstore, enhancing the gameplay experience significantly.

After teasing fans with glimpses of new content, developer Arrowhead has launched a fresh invasion push from the Illuminate faction. As detailed on the PlayStation Blog, new enemies such as the Stingray jetfighters, which execute devastating strafing runs from the sky, and the Crescent Overseer, capable of barraging Helldivers in cover, have been added. Another intriguing addition is the Fleshmob, a "failed" Illuminate experiment described as a brute battlefield force that players must work diligently to destroy. Arrowhead has hinted at sightings of even larger ships, suggesting that there may be more to uncover within the game.

Attention, Helldivers: This is a Galactic Emergency.

The true Illuminate invasion has begun. In a sudden and completely unprovoked offensive manoeuvre, the full Illuminate fleet is emerging from the Meridia Singularity. Nothing is safe - not even the Heart of Democracy itself. pic.twitter.com/2hgtK6akMb

— HELLDIVERS™ 2 (@helldivers2) May 13, 2025

For the first time, Helldivers 2 now offers weapon customization and progression. Most primary weapons can now level up through mission completions, unlocking new attachments via Requisition. Players can fine-tune their weapons by adjusting sights for precision, changing color patterns, modifying magazines for ammo capacity, optimizing muzzles for performance, and tweaking under-barrel attachments for better handling. This customization promises to make each player's favorite primary weapon stand out in its class.

Arrowhead has also released a selection of patterns for the FRV, themed on the Viper Commandos, Freedom's Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers Warbonds. These patterns will become available on May 15, coinciding with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.

The Superstore has also seen changes, ensuring that desired items are always available without players having to wait for them to cycle back into rotation.

In addition to these new features, patch 01.003.000 includes a comprehensive balance update, affecting aspects such as spread, drag, sway, melee weapon stamina costs, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, further refining the gameplay mechanics.