Highlights

  • Helldivers 2's anti-cheat software inadvertently hinders disabled gamers who rely on third-party tools for accessibility.
  • Popular online games like Helldivers 2 implement anti-cheat measures like nProtect GameGuard, impacting player experience.
  • CEO of Arrowhead Game Studios promises to address disabled gamer's concerns, signaling a potential breakthrough for accessibility in Helldivers 2.

Helldivers 2's anti-cheat software accidentally added another barrier to entry for disabled gamers. Some individuals with disabilities use special tools or programs to improve their gaming experience. However, as anti-cheat software evolves and tightens restrictions on third-party systems, some gamers with disabilities may find it difficult to enjoy certain games. Such is the case with Helldivers 2.

Anti-cheat software is nothing new to modern online titles. In recent years, they've become especially widespread among a variety of popular online games, with programs like Easy Anti-Cheat, BattleEye, and Valve Anti-Cheat becoming some of the most proliferated services in the industry. Unfortunately, these systems aren't always perfect. As one disabled gamer revealed, anti-cheat systems mistakenly targeted Helldivers 2 players who were forced to rely on third-party tools to compete on a level playing field with the rest of the player base.

helldivers 2 soldier standing on dead bug
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Video game accessibility advocate Steven Spohn shared a post to Twitter expressing his disappointment with Helldivers 2's inflexible anti-cheat system. The massively popular PVE shooter notably utilizes the nProtect GameGuard anti-cheat system to safeguard the integrity of its online play. According to Spohn's post, nProtect GameGuard's kernel-level security blocked the functionality of several vital tools. Most notably, the anti-cheat for Helldivers 2 did not permit the use of a special infrared hat controller, which Spohn used to control his in-game character.

Fortunately, a fix to Spohn's issues might soon be delivered. Arrowhead Game Studios CEO Johan Pilestedt reached out to Spohn in a comment to his original post. Pilestedt promised to look into the issue and specifically asked for the names of Spohn's assistive tools, and the two have since opened a private dialogue to discuss how Helldivers 2 could improve its accessibility.

Helldivers 2's War On Cheaters

It's understandable why so many online games utilize anti-cheat software, as having too many cheaters running around the servers does more than just distort the intended gameplay experience. It negatively affects the game's longevity and player base. A comprehensive list of gameplay accessibility options can go a long way in welcoming more people into the community.