Helldivers 2 is a game that comes with a lot of pressure, and players are going to need all the help they can get and all the beast gear and equipment at their disposal, but the developers are focused on the aspects of teamwork and balance. Not everyone agreed and voiced their dismay, which provoked the developers and the CEO had to step in.
The developers responded to fans over at their Discord server in an unprofessional fashion that painted the team in a negative light. Constant harassment from the community that is difficult to please could take a toll on the team’s patience, and they had reached their breaking point. Sarcastic and demeaning comments worsened the situation, forcing Johan Pilestedt to act.
Helldivers 2 CEO Will Not Tolerate Condescending Behavior
The issue is rooted in the fact that the developers decided to change and nerf certain weapons like the railgun for a balanced game. While their decision was valid from a developer standpoint, the community was not a fan of taking their overpowered weapons away from them in an already difficult game. Lashing out at developers on their Discord server, they received the same energy in return, which is unacceptable behavior even for Johan Pilestedt.
We are aware of this and have taken action internally to educate our developers on how to represent the organization.
An unfortunate turn of events made the team behind the game resort in an unprofessional manner that is comparable to how trolls would behave on the internet. Pilestedt promised that they would be taking corrective action to avoid making the same mistake again.
It is easy to forget that developers are people too, and most have a lot of pressure to work on a game that is loved by millions and do their best to make it even better. The team behind Helldivers 2 is hanging on by a thread because even they didn’t anticipate the level of success, and though it is good for business, it means they have a lot more riding on them this time.
Johan Pilestedt Is Disappointed by How Developers Are Handling This Situation
Fighting fire with fire is futile. The developers are hard at work making the best game possible that will reflect their values and beliefs through fighting as a unit, and not relying on their strongest weapon. Game designers can’t always listen to suggestions because it is simply not a good idea for the game’s longevity.
Pilestedt is deeply disappointed by this and is firm that this is not how they want to be perceived as developers within the game industry. Consideration and kindness go both ways. Players voice their opinions because of their personal beliefs on how to make the game better, but the developers have a greater vested interest in taking care of their project.
Pilestedt also replied to another Reddit post once again, mentioning the miscommunication.
Helldivers 2 is a triumph for Arrowhead Game Studios, which wants to ensure the game’s longevity by making constant changes for improvement. Perhaps if players could be more understanding and the developers could be less antagonistic and condescending, a harmonious and toxic-free community would be established.
What do you make of this situation? Let us know in the comments below!
