Arrowhead Game Studios has released the Machinery of Oppression update for Helldivers 2, introducing a major new campaign on the Automaton homeworld, Cyberstan. The update challenges players to halt the production of Cyborg forces and dismantle Automaton infrastructure, taking the fight to heavily fortified industrial cities. According to Katherine Baskin, Social Media and Community Manager at Arrowhead, Automatons recently acquired the schematics for the Star of Peace, intending to use them for military purposes under the direction of the Cyborg Legion. This development has prompted Super Earth to launch a coordinated offensive to stop the threat.
The update places players in Cyberstan’s factory cities, which are characterized by industrial landscapes filled with hazards and defenses designed to slow progress. Players must navigate these areas, breaching fortified positions while destroying enemy facilities to disrupt production. Progress is community-driven, requiring squads to work together to manage objectives across the different city sectors, ensuring that every mission contributes to the larger war effort.
New Challenges for Helldivers
Machinery of Oppression adds several new mission types and objectives that emphasize strategic play. Helldivers are tasked not only with halting Cyborg production but also with systematically dismantling mega factories and symbolic structures that support enemy morale. These objectives require careful coordination, as squads must balance offensive actions with survivability and support for teammates. Defensive stratagems, such as deployable shields, play a key role in managing engagements in these hazardous environments.
Players also face a renewed Cyborg threat. The update introduces three new enemy types in the Cyborg subfaction. Agitators serve as battlefield commanders, directing nearby Automaton units and making tactical decisions. Cyborg Radicals are heavily modified for close-quarters combat, combining cybernetic and biological enhancements. Finally, the Vox Engine acts as a mobile war machine, piloted by a high-ranking Cyborg officer, and armed with lasers, rockets, and gatlings. These enemies require players to adapt strategies for both ranged and melee combat.
Equipment and Warbond Additions
The update includes new equipment and armor options to help players survive the new Cyberstan missions. The previously introduced Siege Breakers Warbond provides defensive support, including the G/SH-39 Shield, while the new War Horses armor set is available for purchase through the Superstore. These additions give squads more tools to manage the increasing difficulty of the missions and improve survivability in heavily contested areas.
Unlocking these items requires game progression and Super Credits. Online access and a PlayStation Plus membership are also necessary for PS5 players.
Reinforcement Mechanics Affect the Global Campaign
A notable addition in the Machinery of Oppression update is the Galactic Reinforcement Counter, which tracks Helldiver deaths during the Cyberstan campaign. Reinforcements are limited, and if the counter reaches zero, the operation fails globally. This system encourages careful planning, teamwork, and efficient resource management, emphasizing survival over reckless combat. Helldivers are expected to revive fallen teammates, deploy defensive tools, and coordinate attacks to maximize their squad’s effectiveness and prolong their operational lifespan.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When was the Machinery of Oppression update released?
The update for Helldivers 2 launched today, introducing new missions, enemies, and gear.
What new locations are included in the update?
Players are sent to Cyberstan, featuring heavily fortified factory cities and industrial landscapes filled with environmental hazards.
Which enemies return in this update?
The update brings back the Cyborg faction, including Agitators, Cyborg Radicals, and the Vox Engine.
What new gear is available for players?
The update adds the War Horses armor set and defensive tools like the G/SH-39 Shield, alongside support from the Siege Breakers Warbond.
How do reinforcements work in Cyberstan?
The Galactic Reinforcement Counter tracks all Helldiver deaths globally. Limited reinforcements mean squads must prioritize survival to avoid campaign failure.
Are there any requirements to play the new missions?
Players need the base game, progression to unlock content, Super Credits for certain items, and a PlayStation Plus membership with internet access on PS5.
