How to Fix Lag and Crashes in Helldivers 2 PC

Helldivers 2 has been generating a lot of buzz since its PC release, but like many ambitious games, it’s not without its technical hiccups. Lag spikes and unexpected crashes can really take you out of the action, especially during those intense co-op missions. As someone who’s spent dozens of hours exploring the galaxy with friends, I’ve compiled a few practical tips to help smooth your gameplay experience.

1. Update Your Graphics Drivers

One of the most common causes of performance issues is outdated graphics drivers. Whether you’re running an NVIDIA or AMD GPU, make sure your drivers are the latest version. These updates often include optimizations for newer games, and Helldivers 2 is no exception.

2. Optimize In-Game Settings

Even if your PC meets the recommended specifications, some settings can still cause strain. Lowering options like shadow quality, particle effects, and anti-aliasing can drastically improve frame rates. For players experiencing frequent crashes, switching from full-screen to borderless window mode has also helped stabilize performance.

3. Check Background Processes

Games like Helldivers 2 are resource-intensive. Close unnecessary applications and background processes before launching the game. Streaming software, web browsers, or other programs using significant CPU or RAM can contribute to lag and even crashes.

4. Verify Game Files

Corrupted game files can lead to all sorts of performance problems. Platforms like Steam or Epic Games allow you to verify the integrity of your game files. This simple step often resolves crashes that occur on startup or during missions.

5. Adjust Network Settings

Since Helldivers 2 has a strong focus on online co-op, network performance is critical. Use a wired connection if possible, and consider limiting other devices from using the same network during gameplay. Lag spikes in multiplayer are often more network-related than hardware-related.

6. Manage In-Game Economy Items

Interestingly, the way you manage certain in-game items can indirectly impact your performance. Players who stockpile or frequently use items like medals or requisition slips might notice subtle slowdowns in menus or load screens. While it’s convenient to buy helldivers 2 medals or buy helldivers 2 requisition slips to progress faster, organizing your inventory and clearing unused items can help reduce these small but noticeable hitches.

7. Keep Windows Updated

Finally, keeping your operating system updated is crucial. Windows updates often include fixes for stability and compatibility, which can prevent unexpected crashes in newer titles like Helldivers 2.

While technical issues can be frustrating, following these steps usually brings a smoother and more enjoyable experience. By combining proper hardware optimization, in-game adjustments, and careful management of your resources, you can focus on what Helldivers 2 does best: cooperative, chaotic action across the galaxy.