How to fix Helldivers 2 crashing on startup error

If you’ve been unable to play Helldivers 2 because of annoying crashes on startup, you’re not alone. Many players have been facing this problem since the game launched on Feb. 8, and while it’s mostly an internal error that needs developer attention, here are a few fixes you can try.

What causes Helldivers 2 to crash?

Helldivers 2 crashes on launch due to fundamental errors in its code and local files. While fans reported crashes from all platforms, the problem looks to be affecting gamers on PlayStation 5 the most. More and more players have been gathering in the Helldivers 2 Reddit community as the game keeps crashing on PS5, looking for temporary fixes so they could return liberating.

Startup crashes might also be an indication of server downtime. Helldivers 2 may crash or give you a black screen on PC and PlayStation for other reasons, including system requirements incompatibility, software conflicts, or background programs hogging resources.

Helldivers 2: How to fix crashing on startup error

To fix Helldivers 2‘s crashing on startup error, restart your console or PC. A restart will let you check for pending updates and install system updates. In most cases, the error might resolve itself by the time you restart your gaming system.

Fixes to try on PC when Helldivers 2 crashes

Check if Windows Firewall is blocking Helldivers 2

Many players fixed the crashing errors by disabling their anti-virus programs. If you’re not willing to disable yours, you can also allow Helldivers 2 in your firewall settings, which may fix the problem. Here’s what to do if you use Windows Defender:

1. Type Firewall & network protection in the search bar and click the Settings option.
2. Click Allow an app through firewall then select Allow another app.
3. Next, click Browse and locate the Helldivers 2 executable. Add it to the list of allowed apps through your firewall.

Afterward, try launching the game and see if the crashing error persists. If you’re using a third-party anti-virus program like Avast, McAffee, or BitDefender, dig into its firewall settings and make sure Helldivers 2 is allowed to bypass.

Disable Steam Input

To disable Steam Input, follow these steps:

1. In your Steam library, right-click on Helldivers 2 and choose Properties from the dropdown menu.
2. Go to the Controller tab. 
3. Under the controller options, select Disable Steam Input.

For reasons unknown, this workaround has worked for several players, so it’s definitely worth a try.

Fixes to try on PS5 when Helldivers 2 crashes

To fix Helldivers 2 crashing on startup on PS5, you can try restarting Helldivers 2 or reinstalling it. Though only Arrowhead Game Studios can fix this error for good, a simple reset or downloading the game from scratch could do the trick. However, you should also first check Helldivers 2‘s server status since the fixes on our list won’t work when there’s a server outage.

Ultimately, this is one of those errors which you’ll need to wait out. Only Arrowhead can deploy a permanent fix in this matter, and the solution methods above can be viewed as temporary remedies.

If Helldivers 2 keeps crashing on PS5 or PC due to crashes even after the fixes, I suggest reporting the problems to Arrowhead Game Studios. Their official support desk could help you fix the problem based on your situation.