Console exclusivity continues to loosen in 2025. Xbox will launch its Gears of War remake on PlayStation the same day Helldivers 2 arrives on Xbox. PlayStation isn’t embracing Microsoft’s Play Anywhere program, but Sony is sharing select titles with platforms that fit their strategy — like Horizon Lego Adventures on Switch.
While exclusives aren’t disappearing, the expanded Helldivers 2 ecosystem benefits players on all sides.
Nixxes Software Leads the Port
Port quality often hinges on the developer behind it, and Helldivers 2 is in capable hands. Nixxes Software, a Sony-owned studio with a strong track record, is responsible for the Xbox conversion. Their past work includes PC ports of Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition, Marvel’s Spider-Man, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. These titles launched with solid optimization, suggesting Xbox players can expect similar performance.
Crossplay and Performance on Series S/X
The Xbox release will support full crossplay across PS5, PC, and Xbox. Given the game’s co-op focus, this is a major boost to its matchmaking pool.
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Series S: Expected to run at 30 FPS unless settings are heavily reduced, given its lower specs than PS5.
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Series X: Optimized build with 4K resolution in graphics mode and targeted 60 FPS in performance mode, on par with PS5.
Controller Features Compared
Xbox controllers provide advanced rumble and impulse triggers, offering solid battlefield feedback. However, they lack the adaptive trigger resistance found on DualSense, so aiming and firing weapons may feel slightly less tactile.
Updates and Content Since Launch
Helldivers 2 launched in February 2024 and has received three major updates:
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Escalation of Freedom
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Omens of Tyranny
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Hearts of Democracy
These updates introduced new biomes, enemies, difficulty modes, and missions. The latest minor update, Control Group Warbond, added the Seven-Barreled Volley Gun, Bouncing Art Grenade, Laser Sentry with infinite ammo, and cosmetic items.
The next update will drop alongside the Xbox launch, though details remain under wraps.
Warbonds, Monetization, and Story
Warbonds function like battle passes but without time limits, letting players unlock items at any pace. They can be purchased with Super Credits earned in-game or bought with real money.
The game’s satirical story follows soldiers of Super Earth in their fight against Terminid bugs, Automatons, and hostile alien races. While the narrative shapes the missions, it avoids lengthy cutscenes, focusing instead on gameplay.
Mission Structure and Co-op
Operations are co-op campaigns made up of multiple missions with varied objectives. Over 100 mission types exist, from primary goals to optional tasks that boost rewards. Four-player sessions allow for public matchmaking or private friend-only lobbies, with friendly fire always active.
Planets, Biomes, and Progression
The game currently features 261 planets across 23 biomes, each offering unique challenges. Weapon XP, earned through missions, fuels upgrades, while skins and attachments add customization.
Ships can also be upgraded by collecting modules, improving features like helipad deployment or sentry targeting. Strategems — orbital support tools like turrets, airstrikes, and vehicles — remain a fan favorite and will expand with future updates.
Galactic War and Release Details
All player actions feed into the game’s Galactic War, a live map tracking Super Earth’s progress in liberating planets.
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Standard Edition: $39.99
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Super Citizen Edition ($59.99): Includes DP53 Savior of the Free Armor Set, Will of the People Cape, MP98 Knight Weapon, Super Citizen Status, Strategem Hero Ship Game, and a Premium Warbond Token.
Helldivers 2 launches on Xbox Series X|S on August 26, 2025.
