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

The highly anticipated update for *Helldivers 2*, patch 01.003.000, is now live on both PC and PlayStation 5, bringing a host of exciting new features and gameplay enhancements. Developer Arrowhead has rolled out a significant update that introduces new Illuminate enemies, weapon customization and progression, and modifications to the Superstore, promising to elevate the gaming experience to new heights.

In a dramatic escalation of the game's narrative, Arrowhead has unleashed a full-scale invasion by the Illuminate alien faction. This new offensive includes formidable enemies such as the Stingray, jetfighters that provide aerial support and execute devastating strafing runs against Helldivers. The Crescent Overseer, another new addition, can target Helldivers in cover with barrages, while the Fleshmob, a brute force resulting from a failed Illuminate experiment, challenges players to strategize and overcome this monstrous foe. Arrowhead has also hinted at sightings of larger ships, suggesting even more challenges await players.

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

For the first time, *Helldivers 2* introduces weapon customization and progression. Players can now level up their primary weapons by completing missions, unlocking new attachments through Requisition. This system allows for personalized adjustments to sights, color patterns, magazines, muzzles, and under-barrel attachments, enabling players to fine-tune their weaponry to suit their preferred playstyle.

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.

Additionally, Arrowhead has released a variety of new 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 with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.

The Superstore has also seen changes, ensuring that items players want are always available, eliminating the need to wait for items to cycle back into rotation.

Beyond these new features, patch 01.003.000 includes a comprehensive balance pass, adjusting various gameplay elements such as spread, drag, sway, melee weapons stamina cost, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, ensuring a more refined and enjoyable gameplay experience for all Helldivers.