Rhykker: I Can’t Believe Helldivers 2 Devs Do This

Learn about the unique experience created by one Helldivers 2 developer and other news in the gaming industry.

Photo of author

Griot the NPC

In a recent video, Rhykker discusses the fascinating role of a developer on Helldivers 2 who acts as a game master, shaping the ongoing narrative of the game based on player behavior. This unique approach allows players to collectively progress the story and experience a dynamic community-driven campaign. Rhykker also covers other news in the gaming industry, including layoffs at Sony, Nintendo’s lawsuit against an emulator, and updates on Elden Ring and Last Epoch.

YouTube video

If you enjoy this content, consider subscribing to Rhykker’s YouTube channel!

Key Takeaways:

  • Helldivers 2 has a unique narrative system where a developer acts as a game master, shaping the ongoing story based on player behavior.
  • Sony has laid off 900 employees and canceled a Twisted Metal live service game.
  • Nintendo is suing the creators of a popular Nintendo Switch emulator, alleging illegal circumvention of software encryption.
  • Updates on Elden Ring and Last Epoch, including new information on the upcoming Elden Ring expansion and Last Epoch’s plans for future patches.

Helldivers 2’s Unique Narrative System

In Helldivers 2, players collectively progress through a community-driven campaign with major events shaped by a single developer known as the game master. This developer, named Joel, reacts to player behavior and adjusts the narrative accordingly. For example, if players are progressing too quickly towards a goal, Joel can introduce new challenges to slow their progress. This approach creates a dynamic and evolving story that is influenced by the entire player community.

Sony Layoffs and Game Cancellations

Sony has recently laid off 900 employees, representing 8% of its global workforce. This has led to the closure of Sony’s London Studio and downsizing at Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Gorilla, and FireSprite. As a result of these layoffs, a Twisted Metal live service game has been canceled. While it is disappointing for fans of the series, it seems that Sony may be moving away from the games-as-a-service model.

Nintendo’s Lawsuit Against an Emulator

Nintendo is suing the creators of the Yuzu emulator, which allows users to run Nintendo Switch games on their PC. While emulators themselves are not illegal, Nintendo claims that Yuzu illegally circumvents their software encryption and facilitates piracy. Nintendo is seeking damages and the shutdown of Yuzu. This case raises questions about the legality of emulators and their role in facilitating piracy.

Updates on Elden Ring and Last Epoch

In an interview with Famitsu, game director Hidetaka Miyazaki revealed new information about the upcoming Elden Ring expansion, Shadow of the Earth Tree. The expansion will include a separate leveling mechanic that empowers players while in the DLC area. This allows players to become stronger before facing challenging bosses. Last Epoch has also seen success, with a peak of 265,000 concurrent players and improvements in server stability. The developers have plans to expand the endgame content and release on consoles in the future.