Forget Call Of Duty, Warhammer Needs A Helldivers 2 Collab

Warhammer 40k fans are always on the lookout for exciting new ventures that bring the grim darkness of their beloved universe into unexpected territories. While collaborations with big-name franchises like Call of Duty can certainly garner attention in the world of 40k, there’s a sleeper hit waiting in the wings for the perfect crossover: Helldivers 2.

From the gameplay to its themes, Helldivers 2 and Warhammer 40k are two worlds that fans want to collide. Whether it be in the form of DLC, cosmetic bundles, or an in-game crossover event, Helldivers 2 is the perfect setting for a collaboration with the grimdark future of the 40,000^th Millennium. So buckle up, because we’re about to send some Xeno scum back to the void where they belong.

https://twitter.com/helldivers2/status/1755532173161976104

Unexpected Crossovers

Warhammer 40k enthusiasts have been getting loads of cool stuff lately. There are the usual novels from Black Library, the Rogue Trader narrative RPG, and even an upcoming Amazon series led by Henry Cavill himself. And guess what? The Warhammer universe will also soon be popping up in an unexpected place – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.

Dataminers in the Call of Duty scene have uncovered plans for a crossover event. If it’s true, players could jump into the boots of a Space Marine or a Sister of Battle, the warriors of mankind who go around the universe squashing heretics and Xeno filth. Personally, I was hoping for regular soldier types like Guardsmen or Death Krieg, but one can dream.

https://twitter.com/theofficecod/status/1758179210508845304

And get this, even PowerWash Simulator is getting a Warhammer DLC soon. Yeah, you heard that right. You’ll be playing as a member of the Adeptus Mechanicus, the fanatical techno-wizards who worship machines. Armed with a fancy power washer, aka the MKII Aqua-Santica Arquebus, you’ll be blasting away blood and grime in style.

I bet there’ll be tons of cool easter eggs for fans to find as they play. And judging from the trailer they showed off during IGN FanFest, I’m pretty sure the voice acting is going to be suitably dark and gritty. Looks like they really took the phrase “Purge the Unclean” a bit too literally. Just make sure not to mess anything up, you don’t want to be turned into a Servitor, do you?

https://twitter.com/PowerWashSim/status/1762492791207420303

A Perfect Fit For The 40k Universe

When considering potential crossovers, it’s essential to evaluate the thematic compatibility between the two franchises. While Call of Duty may boast a massive player base and cinematic appeal, its modern military setting doesn’t quite align with the grandiose, dystopian universe of Warhammer 40k. Helldivers 2, on the other hand, offers a seamless fit.

The game’s focus on relentless warfare against alien threats mirrors the perpetual battle against Xenos and Heretics in the 40k universe. In Helldivers, players fight to protect Super Earth from alien invaders, a narrative thread that resonates deeply with the story of Warhammer 40k. The Terminids, Helldivers’ insectoid enemies, bear striking similarities to the Tyranids of 40k, while the Automatons share parallels with the dreaded Necrons.

The Potential For A Collab

PlayStation and PC have been begging for the game to come to Xbox so that they can call in the support of Halo players for their expertise in alien slaying. While I too believe that Helldivers should come to Xbox, I don’t think Halo fans are the ones you need help from. No offense, but Warhammer 40k players have been squashing bugs and destroying machines since 1987.

If there’s anyone you’d want by your side liberating Malvelon Creek (a moment of silence for the lost planet), it’s the messengers of the God Emperor of Mankind themselves. Even the recent fan-dubbed “Traitor Helldivers”, who betray and kill their allies in-game, is the perfect opportunity to introduce the Helldivers equivalent of the Chaos Cultists from Warhammer 40k. Simply put, there’s a lot of potential.

It truly is the saddest of days #HelldiversII #HELLDIVER2 pic.twitter.com/IUf8sRkugu

— Helldivers Alerts (@HelldiversAlert) February 28, 2024

Expanding The 40k Universe

For Warhammer 40k enthusiasts, the chance to explore new aspects of the universe is always a welcome addition. While established mediums like novels and tabletop games offer rich narratives, video game collabs provide a unique opportunity to delve into uncharted territory. Helldivers 2 presents an ideal platform for expanding the 40k universe, introducing elements and factions that may not receive as much attention in traditional media.

The potential return of the Illuminate from the first game just adds to the pile of reasons it should get a Warhammer collab. Drawing parallels to 40k’s own Eldar, these advanced “knife-ears” could serve as catalysts for new storylines and conflicts within the game. Just adding a new race of super-advanced baddies trying to stop the spread of Democracy and getting in the way of Super Earth.

Elevating The Gameplay

Beyond narrative enrichment, a collaboration between Helldivers 2 and Warhammer 40k holds promise for enhancing gameplay dynamics. The incorporation of iconic weapons, equipment, and abilities from the 40k universe could inject new life into Helldivers’ already wild gameplay loop. I can name a few planets that could use a virus bomb run, though I doubt it’ll come to that.

Imagine wielding heavy bolters and Ceramite Power Armor or piloting a Dreadnaught (which I have to point out looks very similar to the Hulk-class Automatons) or a Titan into the heat of battle to turn the tide of battle. With the addition of Mech Suits coming soon, I doubt it’s a reach. A seamless integration of Warhammer 40k elements could elevate the strategic depth and immersion of Helldivers 2.

Moreover, the introduction of Warhammer 40k-themed missions, objectives, and enemies could provide diverse gameplay experiences for both newcomers and seasoned veterans. From facing hordes of Terminids in desperate last stands to battling Chaos cultists (Traitor Helldivers), the possibilities for engaging gameplay scenarios are endless.

The average Helldivers 2 experience pic.twitter.com/DHfsjXhZDx

— Dolan Dark (@DolanDark) February 28, 2024

The Road Ahead

While the vision of a Warhammer 40k collab with Helldivers 2 may seem like a pipe dream, the potential is undeniable. As fans continue to await new experiences in the 40k universe, devs have a unique opportunity to heed their calls and forge new alliances across the gaming landscape. Spreading democracy in the name of the Emperor, anyone?

In the end, whether it’s purging heretics in the name of the Emperor or defending Super Earth from alien threats, the journey is as important as the destination. As we eagerly await news of potential collaborations and future endeavors, one thing remains clear: the one thing that brings gamers together… is making sure that humanity always stays on top.