Helldivers 2 became one of the most-played games in 2024, second only to Palworld. While the game did not boast of a major studio or a huge budget, it delivered on its promises of engaging and interactive gameplay. Looking at the success of Helldivers 2, other major producers could learn a thing or two about how video games should be made.
Skull and Bones Shows What Not To Do
The much-anticipated Skull and Bones from Ubisoft and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League were two of the biggest flops of the year so far. After being in development for over 11 years, Skull and Bones felt like a patchwork of old games with little to no originality that left fans highly displeased.
So, the failure of these two high-profile mega-budget games should function as a warning for game developers regarding what not to do while making a video game. If they need inspiration, Helldivers 2 is there to show exactly how to make a phenomenal game and keep fans happy, even with a meager budget.
Skull and Bones was one of Ubisoft’s most anticipated projects. Set in the Golden Age of piracy, the game is anything but golden. From being delayed for over 6 years to failing to meet fan expectations, the game has faced severe slack from fans regarding its ‘bad graphics’ and weak storyline.
Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League was another game of 2024 that paid the price for not heeding fan opinion. Apart from having a buggy release, the game had numerous glitches and to top it off, it killed off the fan-favorite Batman. So, it comes as no surprise that Suicide Squad remains one of the worst games to be premiered in 2024. The only other game that can come close is Skull and Bones.
Players have found the gameplay of Skull and Bones to be dull and unenjoyable. Suicide Squad, though packs a significant punch when it comes to gameplay and mechanics, fell flat amongst fans due to its lackluster storyline.
Helldivers 2 Shows the Way Forward
Helldivers 2 had a meager budget when compared to other big-money releases. But the game did so well that it took even the developers by surprise. The game was so popular that it even increased the viewership of Starship Troopers released way back in the 90s.
Apart from playing on the trope of humanity fighting against bugs, the game offers a commendable co-op playing experience which has ensured its popularity. The game is simple in its mechanics as it does away with the pay-to-win scheme followed by major releases. Instead, its play-to-earn system has kept players hooked.
The multi-player experience is refreshing as it does away from the popular loot mechanics, grinding gameplay, and frankly embarrassing in-game payments. Instead of winding leveling up, Helldivers 2 has a straightforward progression and surprise mini-games, especially when popular games like EAFC 24 and others keep making pay-to-win content.
Hopefully, other developers will learn from the success of Helldivers 2. What is your favorite part about Helldivers 2? Let us know your thoughts about the botched Skull and Bones.
