For a good stretch now, real-time strategy (RTS) games have been in a bit of a slump, struggling to recapture the limelight they once basked in. However, Helldivers 2 stands out as a potential game-changer for this genre. Despite a loyal community, Blizzard appears to have sidelined Starcraft, which might just pave the way for Arrowhead Studios to make its mark with a competitive RTS set in the Helldivers universe.
Arrowhead’s adaptability is already on full display. The leap from Helldivers 1, with its modest scale, to the ambitious, cooperative shooter of Helldivers 2 illustrates their capacity for growth and innovation. Both games present grand battles over resources on vast terrains, suggesting that the franchise might just provide the spark the RTS genre needs to reignite its flame.
Let’s delve into how Helldivers’ foundational gameplay mechanics could transition seamlessly into the world of RTS games. Remember the isometric view from the first installment? Helldivers 1 cleverly merged strategy game staples, such as base building and artillery strikes, with the intensity of twin-stick shooter mechanics. This blend created an engaging and tactical gameplay loop. By integrating features like pre-selected loadout systems and a galaxy map, it’s evident that the developers have long harbored a fondness for strategy game elements. Helldivers 2 further refined these pillars for success in a hybrid third/first-person shooter format, proving the formula’s longevity.
Now, consider the factions and map designs of Helldivers, which would be a perfect fit for an RTS. Each enemy race in the game boasts a distinct identity and a comprehensive unit roster supported by structures akin to RTS bases. Take the Terminids; these relentless creatures echo Starcraft’s Zerg with their swarm tactics, launching ambushes that disorient foes before sending in their titanic beasts. The Automatons, by contrast, depend on classical combined arms strategies and robust defenses, slowing down their enemies with trenches and mines. Meanwhile, the Illuminate adopt a hit-and-run strategy, using elite squads protected by mindless drones, with mobile ships offering a novel twist on standard base setups.
Even Super Earth’s troops could form their own faction. By broadening their infantry and vehicle lineup, they could play in a way that defies typical RTS human factions. Instead of sheer numbers, Helldivers 2 has showcased the effectiveness of a few operatives playing smart, and an RTS adaptation could further explore this, presenting a human faction that resembles a skilled squad where every soldier lost is a significant blow.
Additionally, other RTS games have set a precedent, proving that such a transition could indeed work. Starcraft, with its sprawling armies, strategic resource management, and rich faction diversity, provides a valuable blueprint. Yet, other genre entries support this transition too. The Dawn of War series, for instance, parallels Helldivers through elements like its Dark Crusade expansion, which replaced linear campaigns with a dynamic battle map where factions vie for planetary dominance–an approach Helldivers could mimic with its galaxy map.
Games like Dawn of War 2 and Company of Heroes introduce a commander system that resonates with Helldivers’ strategic gameplay. Here, factions possess a variety of global abilities, summoning specific units, deploying forward bases, or launching devastating orbital strikes–similar staples that Helldivers could call upon to enhance their RTS spectacle.
Should Helldivers wish to further challenge conventions, looking at classics like Age of Empires could offer inspiration. Though slightly unconventional, the long, strategic gameplay of Age of Empires on expansive maps appeals to players who enjoy thoughtful games. Helldivers could adopt this framework, portraying faction forces landing on new planets, starting at beachheads, and expanding across the map to secure resources and build powerful dominions, mirroring their conquest of new worlds.
But it’s not without challenges. The road isn’t straightforward, as the RTS genre presents barriers that even great games struggle to overcome these days. There’s a reason Starcraft’s luster has dulled, and it doesn’t lie in competition from another title. Since the rise of MOBAs, RTS games have experienced a steady decline. MOBAs offer a mix of isometric tactics and deep strategy, without the intimidating skill barrier and hectic pace that high-end RTS games demand. This accessibility issue has left slower-paced RTS games like Dawn of War and Company of Heroes trailing behind in player numbers compared to even the likes of Starcraft.
The Total War: Warhammer series is one of few recent RTS successes, although it forgoes traditional elements like live resource management for a more player-friendly entry point. Total War already boasted a solid reputation prior to its Warhammer twist, the licensed setting giving it an additional boost.
Yet, a recognized IP alone is no guaranteed recipe for success. Numerous franchises have ventured into the strategy market, only to falter. Take Warhammer: Realms of Ruin, for instance, which tried to bring tactical warfare into an Age of Sigmar universe but couldn’t gather a substantial following. Meanwhile, Relic seemed to put Dawn of War to bed indefinitely after the missteps of its third entry pushed fans back to previous releases.
It’s evident that a memorable IP and mimicking successful formulas alone don’t make for enduring games. For a Helldivers RTS to carve its place in the gaming landscape, it must distinguish itself, harnessing the series’ inherent strengths and a genuine love for what makes strategy games tick. Helldivers thrived by adding a breath of fresh air to the co-op shooter scene. Its cooperative essence is something that hasn’t translated as strongly to the current RTS climate. Should a Helldivers RTS pursue success, it must transcend brand reliance; it should endeavor to rekindle gamers’ admiration for the RTS genre anew.
