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

Helldivers 2 has rolled out a major new update, Patch 01.003.000, now available on PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces a host of exciting features, including new enemies from the Illuminate faction, weapon customization and progression, and significant changes to the Superstore.

Following teasers from developer Arrowhead, the game now faces a full-scale invasion from the Illuminate aliens. The PlayStation Blog details the new enemies, such as the Stingray, jetfighters that provide aerial support and execute devastating strafing runs, and the Crescent Overseer, capable of laying barrages on Helldivers in cover. Another addition is the Fleshmob, a "failed" Illuminate experiment described as a brute battlefield force made from Voteless parts, challenging Helldivers to take it down.

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, suggesting more discoveries await players in the game.

Helldivers 2 now introduces weapon customization and progression for the first time. Most primary weapons can now level up through mission completions, unlocking new attachments via Requisition. Players can also unlock various patterns for their weapons, enhancing personalization.

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 variety of patterns for the FRV themed on the Viper Commandos, Freedom's Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers Warbonds. These patterns will unlock on May 15 with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.

The Superstore has also been updated to ensure that desired items are always available, eliminating the need for players to wait for items to rotate back into stock.

Beyond these new features, Patch 01.003.000 includes an extensive balance pass, with adjustments to spread, drag, sway, melee weapons stamina cost, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.