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

Helldivers 2 has rolled out a significant new update, patch 01.003.000, now available on both PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces a range of exciting features, including new enemies from the Illuminate faction, enhanced weapon customization and progression, and adjustments to the Superstore.

Following teasers from developer Arrowhead, the game now faces a full-scale invasion from the Illuminate aliens. The PlayStation Blog has detailed the new enemies, such as the Stingray, which are jetfighters that support the Illuminate from the sky by targeting Helldivers with devastating strafing runs. Another new adversary is the Crescent Overseer, capable of laying barrages on Helldivers even when they're in cover. Additionally, the Fleshmob, described as a failed Illuminate experiment, is a brute force on the battlefield, challenging players to strategize and take it down effectively.

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 details upon diving back into the game.

A major 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 unlock various patterns for their weapons, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and functionality.

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 around 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 also seen changes, ensuring that desired items are always available, eliminating the need for players to wait for items to rotate back into stock.

In addition to these new features, patch 01.003.000 includes a comprehensive balance update, affecting spread, drag, sway, melee weapon stamina costs, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, ensuring a more refined gameplay experience.