How to Fix Helldivers 2 Not Launching on Your PC

When players attempt to launch Helldivers 2 on their PCs, they often encounter a significant problem: the game crashes immediately or fails to start at all. This issue manifests itself as the game starting up briefly before abruptly terminating or resetting via Steam, without properly booting up.

One prevalent cause linked to these crashes involves the game’s file integrity. Many players have found success in resolving this complication by utilizing Steam’s built-in feature that verifies and repairs game files. This invaluable tool scans for and replaces any files that are corrupted or missing, potentially fixing launch issues.

In addition to file integrity concerns, outdated video card drivers may also trigger compatibility problems that prevent Helldivers 2 from launching correctly. Another potential culprit could be firewall settings that unwittingly block the game’s network connection or prevent its execution. Regularly updating drivers and appropriately configuring firewall settings may help in ensuring a smooth game startup.

1. Run Helldivers 2 as an Admin

One initial step in troubleshooting this issue is to run the game with administrative privileges, which can help overcome any permission conflicts caused by the Windows operating system’s security measures.

1. First, launch the Steam client and navigate to your Library of games.
2. Right-click on Helldivers 2 and select Manage > Browse local files.

   

3. Within the installation directory, proceed to the ‘bin’ folder and right-click on the helldivers2.exe file.
4. Select Properties from the context menu and navigate to the Compatibility tab.
5. Check the Run this program as an administrator box to grant the necessary permissions.

   

6. Click Apply, then OK, and attempt to launch the game through Steam to ascertain whether the issue has been resolved.

2. Clear Steam Download Cache

Steam utilizes a local download cache that could potentially become corrupt, thus preventing the game from launching. Clearing the cache is a harmless procedure that could address this issue.

1. Activate the Steam client on your desktop or laptop.
2. Select the Steam menu in the upper-left corner, then click on Settings.

   

3. Head over to the Downloads section.
4. Choose the Clear Download Cache option, which should clear the stored data.

   

5. Once Steam restarts, test whether the clearing process has led to a successful launch of Helldivers 2.

3. Toggle Steam Cloud Saves

Issues with Steam Cloud saves synchronization may also interfere with the game’s ability to launch properly. Disabling the Steam Cloud Saves feature temporarily could assist in creating a local save file that the game can use instead.

1. Launch the Steam application on your PC and head to the Library section.
2. Right-click on Helldivers 2 to bring up the options menu and select Properties.

   

3. In the game’s properties, disable the Steam Cloud feature to pause cloud syncing while you play.

   

4. After your gaming session, remember to turn the Steam Cloud Saves feature back on to sync your progress.

4. Install Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Runtime Library

A missing Microsoft Visual C++ runtime library could be a barrier preventing Helldivers 2 from launching, as this software provides essential APIs for game functionality. Make sure the Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 runtime library is installed on your system, as it is particularly crucial for this game.

Download the Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 runtime from the official Microsoft website here and install it on your PC to potentially fix the launch problem.

5. Turn off Steam Controller Input

The Steam controller input feature may also contribute to launch issues for Helldivers 2. It might be beneficial to disable this functionality if it’s interfering with the game’s startup sequence.

1. Access the Steam client and proceed to your Library.
2. Right-click on Helldivers 2 and choose Properties from the menu.

   

3. Select the Controller tab and pick the option to Disable Steam input.

   

6. Disable Third-Party Antivirus

Interference from third-party antivirus programs can sometimes be a reason Helldivers 2 fails to launch, particularly if they stop the anti-cheat program GameGuard from initializing properly.

If the game starts without issue after deactivating your security software, it is recommended to add the GameGuard folder (in the Helldivers 2 bin directory) to the antivirus program’s whitelist to avoid future problems. Don’t forget to add the helldivers2.exe file to the security program’s exclusion list too.

7. Turn off VPN

Using a VPN can also contribute to Helldivers 2’s failure to launch, as it may affect the stability of your network connection, which the game relies on.

1. Go to the Settings app by pressing Win key + I.
2. Navigate to Network and Internet > VPN.

   

3. Utilize the Disconnect option to revert to your regular network connection and test whether Helldivers 2 launches without the VPN.

8. Clean Boot Computer

Clean booting your computer can provide a fresh operating environment, free of interference from third-party services, which may resolve persistent launch issues with Helldivers 2.

1. Press Win key + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

   

2. Switch to the Services tab and select the Hide all Microsoft services checkbox to filter the services list.

   

3. Click Disable all to prevent non-Microsoft services from starting up, ensuring a minimalistic boot environment.
4. Save these new settings and proceed to the Startup tab, where you’ll find a link to Open Task Manager.

   

5. Within Task Manager, examine the list of third-party applications and selectively disable those that could be causing conflicts by clicking Disable.

   

6. Reboot your computer to implement the clean boot and monitor whether this impacts Helldivers 2’s ability to launch properly.