Helldivers 2 is in the midst of a controversy over the requirement for PC users to create or link an existing PlayStation Network account. Players on the PC platform are furious over the decision and are making their disappointment known by bombing the official game page on Steam.
The developers at Arrowhead Game Studios are feeling the heat after being attacked and ridiculed by the community through the official server on Discord and like any other person, the developers snapped. The CEO and game director, Johan Pilestedt had to step in.
Helldivers 2 Is Being Ripped to Shreds by Negative Reviews on Steam
The decision to require players on the PC platform to link a PlayStation Network account is not a fan favorite. Perhaps this is a method for Sony to widen its horizons and gain more coverage in the gaming community, like the cross-progression of trophies and achievements that the PC port of Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut will feature on launch. Sony has a vested interest in this platform and would want every player to have a dedicated account linked.
Ouch, right in the review score 😢🤕
Well, I guess it's warranted. Sorry everyone for how this all transpired. I hope we will make it up and regain the trust by providing a continued great game experience.
I just want to make great games! pic.twitter.com/EPO7apDUlc
— Pilestedt (@Pilestedt) May 3, 2024
To see a well-received game suffer from review bombing due to decisions beyond the control of the developers is an unfortunate sight. However, this small setback will not stop Pilestedt from making the game even better and providing free content and is optimistic that the whole situation will be resolved.
This is not the first time the game director had to step in and intervene, Pilestedt once reprimanded his developers after responding in an unprofessional manner to the complaints of the community and resolved it accordingly. The director was able to handle the public better than his team which is a testament to his humility and advocacy for accountability.
Linking PlayStation Network Accounts on Steam is Hurting Helldivers 2
The backlash that the developers are experiencing is uncanny but not unwarranted, the gaming community is making their stand on Sony’s mandate. It is also worth remembering that the developers are people as well and game development is a stressful enough job and they cannot cater to or accommodate every idea and suggestion especially over on something that they have no control over.
Sony has taken notice of the tremendous success of the game and is now looking to bridge the gap between the two platforms on which the game is available. Sony aims to create a more seamless and consistent experience for all gamers, regardless of the platform they use.
The integration of accounts is something Microsoft is known to do with the recent first-party ports to competitors. Perhaps it is a method to establish dominance despite being used or played on a different platform.
The negative reaction to this move is valid and it is unfair to take all the anger and hate by review bombing a game that they too know is undeserving of. It is only a matter of time before Sony will feel the heavy effects of this backlash and will address it sooner rather than later.
Are you upset about having to link a PSN account on PC to play Helldivers 2? Let us know in the comments section below!
