Helldivers 2 Update: New Enemies, Weapons, and Superstore Changes

Helldivers 2 has just rolled out a significant update with Patch 01.003.000, now available on PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces new enemies from the Illuminate faction, weapon customization, progression systems, and alterations to the Superstore, enhancing the gaming experience significantly.

Arrowhead, the game's developer, has been teasing the arrival of the Illuminate faction, and now they've launched a full-scale invasion. The PlayStation Blog details new adversaries like the Stingray, jetfighters that support the Illuminate by targeting Helldivers from above with strafing runs, and the Crescent Overseer, capable of barraging Helldivers even when in cover. Additionally, the Fleshmob, a monstrous result of failed Illuminate experiments, has been introduced as a formidable force on the battlefield that requires strategic effort to defeat.

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, leaving players eager to uncover more mysteries in the game. The introduction of weapon customization and progression marks a significant addition to Helldivers 2. Now, primary weapons have levels that players can advance by completing missions, unlocking new attachments via Requisition. Alongside attachments, players can personalize their weapons with various patterns.

Here's what Arrowhead has to say about the new weapon system:

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.

New patterns for the FRV themed on the Viper Commandos, Freedom's Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers Warbonds will unlock on May 15, coinciding with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.

The Superstore has also been updated to ensure that desired items are always available, eliminating the need for players to wait for items to rotate back into stock.

Beyond these new features, Patch 01.003.000 includes a comprehensive balance update, adjusting aspects such as spread, drag, sway, melee weapon stamina costs, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, ensuring a more balanced and engaging gameplay experience.

Helldivers 2 now has weapon customization and progression. Image credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Arrowhead has also unlocked and deployed a stash of patterns for the FRV themed on the Viper Commandos, Freedom's Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers Warbonds. This backlog of patterns unlock on May 15, with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.

And finally, the Superstore has been changed so items you want are always available, as opposed to players having to wait for items to come back into rotation.