Why Does Helldivers 2 Keep Crashing? Troubleshooting Guide

Helldivers 2 keeps crashing, causing frustration for players? At WHY.EDU.VN, we provide effective solutions to this issue, as well as offer insight into game stability issues. Learn about game settings, hardware conflicts, and driver issues, and discover a wealth of knowledge at WHY.EDU.VN, including crash fixes and performance optimization tips.

1. Understanding the Helldivers 2 Crashing Issue

Crashing in Helldivers 2 has been a prevalent issue, causing significant frustration among players. These crashes can occur at various points in the game, from the initial landing on a planet to the heat of battle, or even during extraction. Such instability can severely disrupt the gaming experience, leading players to seek solutions to ensure smoother gameplay. Many factors can contribute to game crashes, and diagnosing the root cause is crucial for effective troubleshooting.

Helldivers 2 Crash During Gameplay

2. Common Causes of Helldivers 2 Crashes

Several factors can lead to Helldivers 2 crashes. Identifying these potential causes is the first step in resolving the problem.

2.1. Hardware Limitations

Insufficient hardware can be a primary cause of crashes. Helldivers 2 demands substantial processing power, and outdated or underperforming components might struggle to keep up, leading to instability.

• CPU Overload: A CPU working at its maximum capacity can cause the game to crash.
• GPU Issues: An inadequate or outdated GPU can fail to render the game correctly, resulting in crashes.
• RAM Shortage: Insufficient RAM can lead to memory-related crashes, especially during intensive gameplay.

2.2. Software Conflicts

Conflicts with other software running on your system can also trigger crashes. These conflicts can arise from various sources, including:

• Overlays: Programs like Discord, MSI Afterburner, or other in-game overlays can interfere with the game’s processes.
• Antivirus Software: Overly aggressive antivirus programs might flag game files as threats, leading to crashes.
• Background Apps: Numerous applications running in the background can consume system resources, causing the game to crash.

2.3. Driver Issues

Outdated or corrupted drivers, particularly for your GPU, can cause significant stability issues. Drivers act as the communication bridge between your hardware and software, and if they are not functioning correctly, the game can become unstable.

• Outdated Drivers: Old drivers may not be optimized for the latest games, leading to compatibility issues.
• Corrupted Drivers: Damaged or improperly installed drivers can cause crashes and other performance problems.
• Conflicting Drivers: Conflicts between different drivers can also result in game instability.

2.4. Game Bugs and Glitches

Like any complex software, Helldivers 2 can have bugs and glitches that cause crashes. These issues are often addressed by the developers through patches and updates.

• Known Bugs: Certain in-game scenarios or actions might trigger known bugs that lead to crashes.
• Glitches: Unforeseen glitches in the game’s code can cause unexpected errors and crashes.

2.5. Overclocking

Overclocking your CPU or GPU can provide a performance boost but can also lead to instability if not done correctly. The increased clock speeds can cause the hardware to overheat or become unstable, resulting in crashes.

• CPU Overclocking: Pushing your CPU beyond its stock speeds can cause instability.
• GPU Overclocking: Similarly, overclocking your GPU can lead to crashes if it exceeds its thermal or power limits.

3. Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Helldivers 2 Crashing

To address Helldivers 2 crashes, follow these troubleshooting steps.

3.1. Verify Game File Integrity

Corrupted game files can cause crashes. Verifying the integrity of game files through the Steam client can resolve this issue.

1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam client on your computer.
2. Navigate to Library: Go to your game library.
3. Right-Click Helldivers 2: Right-click on Helldivers 2 in your game list.
4. Select Properties: Choose “Properties” from the dropdown menu.
5. Go to Local Files: Click on the “Local Files” tab.
6. Verify Integrity: Click the “Verify integrity of game files…” button.
7. Wait for Process: Allow Steam to verify and repair any corrupted files.

3.2. Update Graphics Drivers

Keeping your graphics drivers up to date is crucial for optimal performance and stability.

1. Identify Your GPU: Determine your graphics card model (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6800).
2. Visit Manufacturer Website: Go to the official website of your GPU manufacturer (NVIDIA or AMD).
3. Download Latest Drivers: Navigate to the drivers section and download the latest drivers for your graphics card and operating system.
4. Install Drivers: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new drivers.
5. Restart Computer: Restart your computer to ensure the new drivers are properly loaded.

3.3. Close Unnecessary Background Applications

Reducing the load on your system by closing unnecessary background applications can help prevent crashes.

1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Identify Resource-Intensive Apps: Look for applications consuming significant CPU, memory, or disk resources.
3. Close Unnecessary Apps: Select the applications you don’t need and click “End Task” to close them.

3.4. Disable Overlays

Overlays from applications like Discord or MSI Afterburner can sometimes interfere with games. Disabling these overlays can help stabilize Helldivers 2.

• Discord Overlay:
  1. Open Discord.
  2. Go to “User Settings.”
  3. Select “Overlay.”
  4. Toggle “Enable in-game overlay” off.
• MSI Afterburner Overlay:
  1. Open MSI Afterburner.
  2. Open Rivatuner Statistics Server (which comes with MSI Afterburner).
  3. Set “Show On-Screen Display” to “Off.”

3.5. Adjust In-Game Graphics Settings

Lowering the graphics settings in Helldivers 2 can reduce the strain on your hardware and prevent crashes.

1. Open Helldivers 2 Settings: Launch the game and go to the graphics settings menu.
2. Reduce Resolution: Lower the resolution to reduce the rendering load.
3. Lower Graphics Quality: Set graphics quality to “Medium” or “Low.”
4. Disable Advanced Effects: Turn off advanced effects like Global Illumination, Anti-Aliasing, and Motion Blur.
5. Apply Settings: Save the changes and restart the game to apply the new settings.

3.6. Check for Overheating Issues

Overheating can cause hardware to malfunction and lead to crashes. Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures to ensure they are within safe limits.

1. Download Monitoring Software: Download and install hardware monitoring software like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner.
2. Monitor Temperatures: Run the monitoring software while playing Helldivers 2 to check CPU and GPU temperatures.
3. Safe Temperature Ranges:
   • CPU: Generally, keep CPU temperatures below 80°C (176°F).
   • GPU: Keep GPU temperatures below 85°C (185°F).
4. Improve Cooling: If temperatures are too high, improve cooling by cleaning fans, reapplying thermal paste, or upgrading cooling solutions.

3.7. Adjust CPU Clock Speed

Adjusting the CPU clock speed can resolve crashing issues related to how the game interacts with the CPU.

1. Access Motherboard Software: Use the software included with your motherboard (e.g., EasyTune for Gigabyte motherboards).
2. Downclock CPU: Reduce the CPU clock speed by 10% (e.g., from 5.0 GHz to 4.5 GHz).
3. Test Game: Launch Helldivers 2 and play to see if the crashes are resolved.
4. Revert Settings: After playing, revert the CPU settings to their original values.

3.8. Run the Game as Administrator

Running the game as an administrator can give it the necessary permissions to access system resources and prevent crashes.

1. Locate Game Executable: Find the Helldivers 2 executable file (usually in the Steam installation directory).
2. Right-Click Executable: Right-click on the executable file.
3. Select Properties: Choose “Properties” from the dropdown menu.
4. Go to Compatibility Tab: Click on the “Compatibility” tab.
5. Check Run as Administrator: Check the box labeled “Run this program as an administrator.”
6. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

3.9. Disable Fullscreen Optimization

Fullscreen optimization can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Disabling it can help stabilize the game.

1. Locate Game Executable: Find the Helldivers 2 executable file.
2. Right-Click Executable: Right-click on the executable file.
3. Select Properties: Choose “Properties” from the dropdown menu.
4. Go to Compatibility Tab: Click on the “Compatibility” tab.
5. Check Disable Fullscreen Optimizations: Check the box labeled “Disable fullscreen optimizations.”
6. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

3.10. Add Game to Antivirus Exceptions

Antivirus software might mistakenly flag game files as threats, leading to crashes. Adding the game to the antivirus exceptions list can prevent this.

1. Open Antivirus Software: Launch your antivirus software.
2. Find Exceptions/Exclusions: Look for the exceptions or exclusions settings (usually in the settings or preferences menu).
3. Add Game Folder: Add the Helldivers 2 game folder to the list of exceptions.
4. Save Changes: Save the changes and restart your computer.

3.11. Reinstall the Game

If all other troubleshooting steps fail, reinstalling the game can resolve underlying issues with the game installation.

1. Uninstall Helldivers 2:
   • Open Steam.
   • Go to your game library.
   • Right-click on Helldivers 2.
   • Select “Manage” and then “Uninstall.”
2. Delete Game Files: Manually delete any remaining game files in the installation directory.
3. Reinstall the Game:
   • In Steam, go to your game library.
   • Find Helldivers 2 and click “Install.”
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall the game.

4. Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

If the basic troubleshooting steps do not resolve the crashing issues, consider these advanced techniques.

4.1. Check Event Viewer for Error Logs

The Event Viewer can provide detailed information about system errors and crashes, which can help identify the root cause of the problem.

1. Open Event Viewer:
   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type eventvwr.msc and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Windows Logs: In the Event Viewer, navigate to “Windows Logs” and then “Application” or “System.”
3. Look for Errors: Look for error messages or warnings that correspond to the time when the game crashed.
4. Analyze Logs: Analyze the error logs to identify the cause of the crash. Look for specific error codes or file names that might indicate the problem.

4.2. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify if a background program is causing the crashes.

1. Open System Configuration:
   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type msconfig and press Enter.
2. Go to Services Tab: In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab.
3. Hide Microsoft Services: Check the box labeled “Hide all Microsoft services.”
4. Disable All Remaining Services: Click the “Disable all” button.
5. Go to Startup Tab: Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager.”
6. Disable Startup Items: In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
7. Apply Changes and Restart: Close Task Manager, click “Apply” and then “OK” in the System Configuration window, and restart your computer.
8. Test Game: Launch Helldivers 2 and play to see if the crashes are resolved. If the game runs without crashing, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the culprit.

4.3. Test Your System Memory

Faulty RAM can cause crashes and other system instability issues. Testing your system memory can help identify if the RAM is the problem.

1. Use Windows Memory Diagnostic:
   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type mdsched.exe and press Enter.
2. Restart and Run Test: Choose “Restart now and check for problems.”
3. Allow Test to Run: Your computer will restart and run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.
4. View Results: After the test is complete, your computer will restart. Check the Event Viewer for the results of the memory test.
5. Replace Faulty RAM: If the memory test identifies errors, replace the faulty RAM modules.

4.4. Check Disk for Errors

Disk errors can cause crashes and other system instability issues. Checking your disk for errors can help identify and fix these problems.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
   • Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Run Disk Check: Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
3. Schedule Disk Check: You will be prompted to schedule the disk check for the next restart. Type Y and press Enter.
4. Restart Computer: Restart your computer to run the disk check.
5. Allow Disk Check to Run: The disk check will run during the startup process. Allow it to complete.

5. Specific Crash Scenarios and Solutions

Certain crash scenarios are more common in Helldivers 2. Here are some specific solutions for these scenarios.

5.1. Crashes After Landing on a Planet

If the game consistently crashes shortly after landing on a planet, the issue might be related to loading assets or initial game processes.

• Lower Graphics Settings: Reduce the graphics settings to minimize the load on your system during the initial loading phase.
• Update Drivers: Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date to handle the game’s rendering requirements.
• Verify Game Files: Check the integrity of the game files to ensure no corrupted assets are causing the crashes.

5.2. Crashes During Intense Combat

Crashes that occur during intense combat might be due to the high demand on system resources.

• Monitor Temperatures: Check CPU and GPU temperatures to ensure they are not overheating.
• Close Background Apps: Reduce the load on your system by closing unnecessary background applications.
• Adjust Game Settings: Lower the graphics settings, especially those related to particle effects and explosions.

5.3. Crashes When Getting Into the Evac Ship

Crashes during extraction could be related to the game’s final processing and saving of mission data.

• Run as Administrator: Run the game as an administrator to ensure it has the necessary permissions to save data.
• Disable Overlays: Disable overlays that might interfere with the game’s processes during extraction.
• Check Disk Space: Ensure you have enough free disk space for the game to save progress.

6. Community Tips and Tricks

The Helldivers 2 community has discovered several effective tips and tricks for resolving crashing issues.

6.1. Disabling Global Illumination

Many players have reported that disabling Global Illumination in the graphics settings can significantly reduce crashes.

1. Open Graphics Settings: Launch the game and go to the graphics settings menu.
2. Disable Global Illumination: Turn off the Global Illumination option.
3. Apply Changes: Save the changes and restart the game.

6.2. Using DirectX 11

Switching to DirectX 11 can sometimes improve stability, especially on older systems.

1. Add Launch Option:
   • Open Steam.
   • Go to your game library.
   • Right-click on Helldivers 2 and select “Properties.”
   • In the “General” tab, click “Set launch options.”
2. Enter Command: Type -dx11 and click “OK.”
3. Launch Game: Launch the game to use DirectX 11.

6.3. Deleting Shader Cache

Deleting the shader cache can resolve issues related to corrupted or outdated shader files.

1. Locate Shader Cache Folder: The shader cache folder is typically located in the NVIDIA or AMD driver directory.
2. Delete Contents: Delete the contents of the shader cache folder.
3. Restart Game: Restart the game to rebuild the shader cache.

7. Understanding GameGuard and Its Impact

GameGuard is an anti-cheat software used by Helldivers 2. While it helps prevent cheating, it can sometimes cause conflicts and crashes.

7.1. Adding GameGuard Files to Exceptions

Adding GameGuard files to the antivirus exceptions list can prevent conflicts and crashes.

1. Locate GameGuard Folder: Find the GameGuard folder in the Helldivers 2 installation directory.
2. Add to Exceptions: Add the GameGuard folder and its contents to the exceptions list in your antivirus software.
3. Restart Computer: Restart your computer to apply the changes.

7.2. Reinstalling GameGuard

Reinstalling GameGuard can resolve issues related to corrupted or outdated GameGuard files.

1. Uninstall GameGuard:
   • Go to the GameGuard folder in the Helldivers 2 installation directory.
   • Run the uninstall program (usually named uninstall.exe or similar).
2. Reinstall Game: Reinstall Helldivers 2, which will also reinstall GameGuard.

8. How to Report Crashes to the Developers

Reporting crashes to the developers can help them identify and fix bugs in the game.

8.1. Gathering Crash Information

Before reporting a crash, gather as much information as possible.

• Crash Logs: Locate the crash logs in the Helldivers 2 installation directory.
• System Specifications: Provide your system specifications, including CPU, GPU, RAM, and operating system.
• Game Settings: Note the game settings you were using when the crash occurred.
• Steps to Reproduce: If possible, provide the steps that led to the crash.

8.2. Submitting a Bug Report

Submit a bug report to the Helldivers 2 developers through their official support channels.

• Official Website: Visit the official Helldivers 2 website and look for the support or bug report section.
• Forums: Check the official Helldivers 2 forums for a bug report thread.
• Social Media: Contact the developers through social media channels like Twitter or Facebook.

9. Preventing Future Crashes

Taking preventative measures can help minimize the likelihood of future crashes.

9.1. Regular Maintenance

Regularly maintaining your system can help prevent crashes.

• Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly update your graphics drivers and other system drivers.
• Clean Up Disk Space: Keep your hard drive clean by deleting unnecessary files.
• Run Antivirus Scans: Regularly scan your system for viruses and malware.
• Defragment Hard Drive: Defragment your hard drive to improve performance.

9.2. Monitoring System Health

Monitoring your system’s health can help identify potential issues before they cause crashes.

• Monitor Temperatures: Regularly monitor CPU and GPU temperatures.
• Check System Resources: Keep an eye on CPU, memory, and disk usage.
• Review Event Logs: Periodically review the Event Viewer for error messages.

10. Community Support and Resources

Leverage the Helldivers 2 community for additional support and resources.

10.1. Online Forums and Communities

Engage with other players on forums like Reddit or the Steam Community to share and receive troubleshooting tips.

10.2. Social Media Groups

Join social media groups dedicated to Helldivers 2 to stay updated on known issues and community solutions.

10.3. Streaming and Video Tutorials

Watch streamers and video tutorials for visual guides on troubleshooting common crash issues.

11. Understanding Error Messages

Error messages can provide clues about the cause of crashes.

11.1. Common Error Codes

Familiarize yourself with common error codes like “Access Violation” or “DirectX Error” to better understand the issue.

11.2. Deciphering Error Logs

Learn to read error logs for more detailed information about the specific files or processes causing the crash.

11.3. Seeking Professional Help

If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider seeking professional help from a computer technician.

12. Hardware Upgrades for Improved Performance

Upgrading specific hardware components can improve overall game performance and reduce crashes.

12.1. Upgrading Your CPU

Consider upgrading to a more powerful CPU if your current processor is struggling to handle the game’s demands.

12.2. Upgrading Your GPU

A newer GPU can significantly improve graphics rendering and reduce crashes related to graphics processing.

12.3. Adding More RAM

Increasing your system’s RAM can help prevent memory-related crashes, especially during intensive gameplay.

13. The Importance of System Stability

Maintaining overall system stability is crucial for a smooth gaming experience.

13.1. Regular System Scans

Perform regular system scans to identify and fix any underlying issues that may be contributing to crashes.

13.2. Avoiding Overclocking

Avoid overclocking your components unless you are experienced and understand the risks involved.

13.3. Monitoring Resource Usage

Keep an eye on your system’s resource usage to identify any potential bottlenecks that may be causing crashes.

14. Helldivers 2 Known Issues and Fixes

Stay informed about known issues and fixes that the developers are actively working on.

14.1. Developer Updates

Follow the official Helldivers 2 channels for developer updates on bug fixes and performance improvements.

14.2. Patch Notes

Review patch notes to see if your specific crash issue has been addressed in the latest update.

14.3. Hotfixes

Be aware of any hotfixes that may be released to address urgent crash issues.

15. System Requirements for Helldivers 2

Ensure your system meets the minimum and recommended requirements for Helldivers 2.

15.1. Minimum Requirements

Verify that your system meets the minimum requirements to run the game, including CPU, GPU, RAM, and operating system.

15.2. Recommended Requirements

Aim to meet the recommended requirements for a smoother gaming experience with fewer crashes.

15.3. Optimizing for Performance

Optimize your system settings to get the best possible performance out of your hardware.

16. Third-Party Applications and Conflicts

Be cautious of third-party applications that may conflict with Helldivers 2.

16.1. Identifying Conflicting Software

Identify any third-party applications that may be causing conflicts with the game.

16.2. Disabling Problematic Apps

Disable or uninstall any problematic apps to see if it resolves the crash issue.

16.3. Seeking Alternatives

Look for alternative applications that perform the same function without causing conflicts.

17. Game Settings and Configuration

Optimize your game settings for the best balance between performance and visual quality.

17.1. Graphics Settings

Adjust your graphics settings to reduce the load on your system without sacrificing too much visual fidelity.

17.2. Audio Settings

Optimize your audio settings to prevent any audio-related issues that may be causing crashes.

17.3. Network Settings

Configure your network settings for the best possible online gaming experience.

18. Regular Backups

Regularly back up your game saves and system settings to prevent data loss in case of a crash or system failure.

18.1. Backup Game Saves

Back up your game saves to prevent losing your progress in case of a crash.

18.2. Backup System Settings

Back up your system settings to quickly restore your configuration if needed.

18.3. Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage services to automatically back up your important files.

19. Cooling Solutions

Proper cooling is essential for preventing hardware from overheating and causing crashes.

19.1. CPU Cooling

Ensure your CPU is adequately cooled with a quality cooler.

19.2. GPU Cooling

Ensure your GPU is properly cooled to prevent overheating during intensive gameplay.

19.3. Case Cooling

Improve your case cooling to maintain overall system temperatures.

20. Power Supply

A stable power supply is crucial for providing consistent power to your components and preventing crashes.

20.1. Adequate Wattage

Ensure your power supply provides adequate wattage for your system.

20.2. Quality Power Supply

Invest in a quality power supply to ensure stable and reliable power delivery.

20.3. Checking Power Supply

Periodically check your power supply to ensure it is functioning correctly.

Experiencing crashes in Helldivers 2 can be frustrating, but by systematically addressing potential causes, you can often resolve these issues. Remember to keep your drivers updated, monitor your system’s health, and adjust your game settings for optimal performance.

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