Helldivers 2 launched with notable performance issues, especially on PC and consoles like the PS5. Players reported frame rate instability and visual glitches during fast-paced action, which affected gameplay experience in large-scale battles. The game’s aging engine relied on a basic upscaler similar to early FSR versions, leading to shimmering and inconsistent image quality.
- New update adds DLSS, FSR 3.1, and XeSS upscaling to improve visuals and frame rates.
- PS5 gains Variable Refresh Rate support to reduce stuttering on compatible displays.
- Low latency features like Nvidia Reflex and AMD Anti-Lag 2 aim to enhance input responsiveness.
- Trade-off involves older PSSR support on PS5 Pro, balanced by more modern options on other platforms.
A more flexible upscaling toolkit
The May 27 update introduces a broader range of upscaling technologies to Helldivers 2. PC users with Nvidia or AMD GPUs can select from DLSS 4.5, FSR 4.03, or FSR 3.1.5, while Intel GPU owners get XeSS 3.0 support. This expanded suite helps boost frame rates without sacrificing sharpness, addressing one of the key complaints since launch.
Console players also benefit. Base PS5 and Xbox consoles receive FSR 3.1 for better upscaling, while PS5 Pro owners gain access to PSSR upscaling. Although the PSSR version is an older iteration, players can toggle between PSSR 1 and PSSR 2 in settings, offering some flexibility depending on their priorities.
Reducing stutter with Variable Refresh Rate
Another important addition on PS5 is Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). On supported displays, VRR dynamically syncs the console’s output to the monitor’s refresh rate. This reduces screen tearing and stuttering, which can be distracting during intense firefights with many enemies. The feature aims to smooth gameplay and improve immersion without requiring hardware upgrades.
Addressing latency for competitive play
Helldivers 2 also adds Nvidia Reflex and AMD Anti-Lag 2 support to lower input latency. These technologies help make controls feel more responsive, a crucial factor in fast-paced shooter games. While not a complete fix for all gameplay issues, they help level the playing field for competitive divers.
What to expect going forward
Arrowhead Game Studios has committed to regular updates and closer communication with the community. Many players on Steam have welcomed the performance improvements but still call for weapon balance and gameplay tweaks, which are expected in future patches later this summer.
The trade-off is compatibility. Some older upscaling methods like PSSR on PS5 Pro are less advanced than DLSS or XeSS, but they still provide worthwhile frame rate boosts. Overall, this update makes Helldivers 2 more accessible and smoother across a wider range of hardware.
Consider this update if you’ve been frustrated by Helldivers 2’s choppy frame rates or visual issues. It’s a practical step forward for performance but doesn’t yet address all gameplay concerns. Skip it if you prioritize weapon balance fixes over graphical enhancements, as those are still pending.
(Via)
