Helldivers 2 has launched its first-ever crossover collaboration to mark its upcoming one-year anniversary, introducing Killzone Helghast-themed skins to the game. However, the celebration has sparked frustration among fans, as the price of the cosmetic bundle—set at $20—has many players feeling the sting of “skin-flation.”
The crossover bundle, priced at 1,975 Super Credits (roughly $20), includes new Helghast-inspired gear and a weapon, making it the most expensive cosmetic set currently available in the game. While players can earn Super Credits through gameplay, the limited five-day availability of the set has left little time for grinding, pushing many toward the premium currency.
Arrowhead Game Studios defended the pricing in a Steam blog post, stating that such collaborations are meant to be “distinct and special” and fall into a “Premium” tier of content. CEO Shams Jorjani also addressed concerns on the game’s Discord server, suggesting that revenue from these premium purchases helps fund free updates.
This justification has not been well-received by the community. Many players argue that Helldivers 2, as a paid game, should not follow the pricing norms of free-to-play titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends. “You cannot be serious,” one player replied to Jorjani’s comment. “These prices are egregious. Your game is NOT FREE.”
The backlash is compounded by a history of pricing controversies. Helldivers 2’s monetization model has gradually expanded beyond cosmetic armor, introducing paid stratagems and weapons into its rotation. Players have calculated that purchasing every Warbond since launch could cost up to $90, excluding other in-game purchases.
The Killzone collaboration, which should have been a celebratory milestone, has instead reignited debates about the game’s monetization. Coupled with past controversies, including a now-reversed PSN login requirement on Steam and gear nerfs affecting paid content, some fans worry about the slippery slope of Helldivers 2’s in-game economy.
The timing of the controversy is particularly unfortunate, overshadowing the free Omens of Tyranny update, which introduced a third Illuminate faction and urban warfare maps. The update was part of the game’s commitment to free content, but its positive reception is now being eclipsed by the Killzone skin pricing debacle.
As Helldivers 2 navigates these turbulent waters, one thing is clear: the community is demanding a re-evaluation of the game’s pricing model to better align with its status as a paid title.
Funny though, Archeage Skins were 40 bucks and you dont hear anyone complain about that.
