The Helldivers 2 Debacle: Best-Selling Game Unavailable in 170 Countries
1. Unforeseen Roadblocks for Helldivers 2 on Steam
In a shocking turn of events, Helldivers 2, the year’s best-selling game, has become inaccessible on Steam in over 170 countries. Players around the world are left in dismay as this popular shooter is abruptly taken off the virtual shelves.
2. Sony’s Requirement: A PlayStation Network Account
Earlier this week, Sony, the publisher behind Helldivers 2, confirmed that all PC players of the game would soon need to link their accounts to an active PlayStation Network (PSN) account. Failure to comply with this mandate would result in the forfeiture of access to the game.
3. Negative User Feedback Floods In
Following this unforeseen requirement, thousands of negative user reviews surfaced overnight. Dissatisfied players showed their frustration, with negative experiences prompted by the PSN account linkage. It has become a PR nightmare for the once high in-demand third-person shooter.
4. Uncertainties Surrounding Unsupported Regions
Despite assurances by a Helldivers 2 community manager that players in countries without PSN coverage would still be able to play the game, the reality is starkly different. Helldivers 2 has now been removed from over 170 territories lacking PSN coverage. This raises questions about the future playability for existing game owners residing in unsupported regions.
5. Steam’s Exemptions and Refund Policy
Surprisingly, Valve, the platform behind Steam, has gone against its own policies and is offering refunds to Helldivers 2 players who have logged over 2 hours of gameplay. In light of the PSN requirement being introduced months after the game’s launch, Valve deemed it fitting to make an exception for the discontented players.
6. The Real Decision Maker: Sony
In response to the mounting backlash, a Helldivers 2 developer made it clear that the PSN change was neither their decision nor the choice of the talented team at Arrowhead Studios. Sony, the true decision maker, has yet to provide an official response to the escalating criticism within just a few days.
7. Questions Arise over Initial Territory Accessibility
Helldivers 2’s availability in the affected regions has sparked speculation regarding Sony’s rationale. Given that the PSN mandate was apparently always part of the plan, it raises concerns as to why the game was initially made accessible in those territories.
8. Looking Ahead
Helldivers 2, once a huge success and a top-seller for Sony, now faces an uncertain future as it grapples with this unexpected setback. The ongoing controversy surrounding the game’s availability has left players and industry insiders eager for an official response from Sony regarding this sudden turn of events.
