All Helldivers 2 Factions Explained

Before you fight your way to victory and help spread managed democracy, familiarize yourself with all enemy factions in Helldivers 2 using this guide.

All Helldivers 2 Factions Explained

Helldivers 2 introduces new and familiar enemy factions based on the original title that will definitely keep players on their toes. While it’s thrilling to tackle hordes of enemies straight away, protecting Super Earth and its democratic principles may be easier if you know where they came from and the specific threats they pose. Read ahead as we give you a rundown on all enemy factions present in Helldivers 2.

All Enemy Factions in Helldivers 2

While players are automatically assigned their role as defenders of the human faction, there are two enemy factions in Helldivers 2 that they’ll have to face against: Automatons and Terminids. Each faction has a unique approach and different types of troops, which will surely impose pressure on your team.

The Automatons

The Automatons - All Enemy Factions in Helldivers 2

Automatons are highly advanced robots whose mastery over technology makes them a slippery and unpredictable foe. This faction is well-equipped to slaughter humanity, with weapons ranging from chainsaws and gleaming blades to devastating flamethrowers. It’s recommended to avoid engaging them in close combat unless absolutely necessary.

The Terminids

The Terminids - All Enemy Factions in Helldivers 2

Essentially, the Terminid faction consists of legions of bugs. An insectoid force that, in contrast to the other faction’s technology, overruns its enemies by sheer numbers and overwhelming swarms.

Terminid troops vary from small Scavengers to huge Titans and Brood Commanders. The big ones are particularly hard to face against, but you should be able to take them down with enough 4-squad firepower.

No Illuminate Faction in Helldivers 2

As you have noticed, The Illuminates faction is not present among the Helldivers 2 enemies so far. Exactly when The Illuminates will make their comeback in Helldivers 2 is yet unknown as of this writing. However, this faction’s return to Super Earth is far from impossible; they may make an appearance in a future update or as a DLC with an amazing storyline.


We’ll make sure to update this page as soon as more information becomes available. Also check out our guide regarding the availability of Helldivers 2 on Xbox Game Pass.