As the gaming community continues to play Helldivers 2, one of the most intriguing and speculative questions is, will there be a third enemy faction? The game currently pitches players against the violent Terminids and the determined Automatons. Hints have suddenly increased, and there might even be possible Easter eggs regarding the possible return of the one most mysterious faction from the original Helldivers, the Illuminate.

The Current Enemy Factions

To better understand the rumored third faction, you must first have an impeccable idea of the state of conditions of Helldivers 2. The game starts with two significant enemy factions, and these two are wholly different in description and challenges:

Terminids: An insect-like race that mostly depends on numbers and brute force. Terminid subtypes include Hunter, Warrior, Bile Titan, Charger, and many more. Terminids reek of brutal attacks and are the one thing to be kept under observation at all times during the game.

Automatons: This faction of robots is quite technologically adept and mounted heavily with Berserkers, Raiders, Marauders, and Scout Striders. More strategical in their assaults, the Automatons will take to the use of advanced weapons and tactics to challenge players in a new way.

While both factions are extremely different and unique in themselves, players have always required just a little more variety and a little complexity on the battlefield. This is what led to the rumors about a third faction.

Hints of a Third Faction: The Illuminate

By far the most compelling, then, was an in-game Easter egg. Users found a news video in the game, sneakingly referring to the Illuminates, one of the factions present in the original Helldivers videogame. It carried a somewhat cryptic message: “Rumors of Illuminate sightings are work of dissid….” As expected, the rumor mill has been grinding the reemergence of this enigmatic group.

In the first entry in the series, the race known as the Illuminate was super-advanced in both technological senses and psychic abilities. While being quite a tough nut to crack throughout the game, they made full use of mind control, energy shields, and very advanced trickery. The possible return of the Illuminate in Helldivers 2 may pose a new level of strategy and trouble for players, as they will need to adapt to the new abilities that they bring.

Developer’s Strategy and Community Speculation

Arrowhead Game Studios always, reputedly keeps their community on alert by always adding new content and surprises in increments. The Illuminate was however added post-launch in the original Helldivers, so it is plausible that the new developers of Arrowhead may follow a similar strategy for Helldivers 2. It feels like Arrowhead Studios are carefully building anticipation for the arrival of this potential new faction since a cryptic Easter egg included in the same references to the Illuminate endorses this.

At this point, however, it is important to underline there’s been no official announcement from Arrowhead regarding the induction of the Illuminate, or a third faction, for that matter. What has the community excited is based mainly on speculation and very subtle hints within the game. It has been busy talk among gamers; they have been eagerly waiting for news and updates that would confirm their theories.  The most solid evidence though, comes from character models of the Illuminate faction found within the game’s files.  This would seem to confirm the theory.

How to Prepare for the Illuminate’s Arrival

For Helldivers 2, however, if the Illuminate does return, that major shift in playing dynamics can be expected, reliant as they are on hi-tech weaponry, psychic powers, and the above-mentioned cunning strategies. These would sharply contrast the basic, one-note brute force of the Terminids and the technological might of the Automatons.

At the very least, the Illuminates offered a unique challenge with the manipulation of cloaking devices, energy shields, and mind control to foil the strategies that a player may throw at them. Their reintroduction could bring in new challenges requiring the player to employ new tactics, increasing the levels of diversity and engagement.

In the same way, the Illuminate has its aesthetic, often described as sleek, mysterious, and alien, which would add a new visual element to the game that would expand upon the sci-fi atmosphere prevalent in Helldivers 2.

Conclusion

While the third Helldivers 2 faction remains unconfirmed, speculation revolving around the Illuminate has certainly piqued the imagination of the game’s community. The prospect of facing off with possibly the most advanced and secretive enemy is thrilling because it will not only add spice to the gameplay but also deepen the lore and structures of the Helldiver’s world-building.

As one continues to experience and explore the current content of the game, waiting for all those future updates, the rumored Illuminate return strikes the mind again. Whether Arrowhead Game Studios will confirm these rumors or keep the players in suspense remains to be seen. All everyone can do is keep an eye out for new challenges that the developers will throw our way.

For More Great Content

Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level. 

Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!

Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.