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

Helldivers 2 has just rolled out an exhilarating major update, Patch 01.003.000, now available for both PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces an array of new features, including fresh Illuminate enemies, advanced weapon customization and progression, and significant changes to the Superstore, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Arrowhead, the game's developer, has been teasing the community with hints of an impending invasion by the Illuminate alien faction. Now, the wait is over as the full-scale invasion has commenced, bringing with it new adversaries such as the Stingray, jetfighters that provide aerial support and execute devastating strafing runs, and the Crescent Overseer, capable of laying barrages on Helldivers even in cover. Another new enemy, the Fleshmob, is a result of a failed Illuminate experiment, described as a "Frankenstein’s monster of Voteless parts" that poses a formidable challenge on the battlefield.

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

Arrowhead has hinted at sightings of even larger ships, suggesting that there might be more surprises awaiting players as they dive back into the game.

A significant addition to Helldivers 2 is the introduction of weapon customization and progression. For the first time, players can level up their primary weapons by completing missions, unlocking new attachments through Requisition. Beyond attachments, players can also customize their weapons with various patterns, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.

Here’s the official description:

Whether it's tweaking sights for precision, changing color patterns, adjusting magazines for ammo capacity, muzzles to optimize weapon performance characteristics or adjusting under-barrel attachments for the handling you want, you're in command of how your weaponry performs on the battlefield. This level of individual attunement is sure to make your favorite primary best in its class.

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

The Superstore has undergone a transformation, ensuring that desired items are always available, eliminating the need for players to wait for items to cycle back into rotation.

In addition to these new features, Patch 01.003.000 includes an extensive balance pass, with adjustments to spread, drag, sway, melee weapons stamina cost, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, ensuring a more refined and balanced gameplay experience.