Helldivers 2 Players Rally to Avenge Mars After Illuminate's Destructive Assault

A fierce invasion of Super Earth has erupted in Helldivers 2's latest update, thrusting the battlefront into the heart of players' home territory. Amid the turmoil, news broke that the Illuminate have obliterated Mars, fueling players' desire for retribution.

In-game broadcasts revealed grim details, confirming that Mars has been decimated by the Illuminate. The Helldiver Training Sites on the planet were annihilated, and the dedicated operators running the facilities perished defending it.

Checking the Galaxy Map in Helldivers 2 now displays a shattered remnant of the once-vibrant planet.

#Helldivers2 | #Helldivers2GalacticWar

⚠️⚠️⚠️ MARS HAS BEEN DESTROYED ⚠️⚠️⚠️ pic.twitter.com/sAzkM08qGz

— Helldivers NOW (@Helldivers_NOW) May 20, 2025

Until recently, Mars served as the training hub for Helldivers honing their skills for the galactic mission of spreading democracy. A recent shift in tutorial locations raised suspicions, but the Illuminate’s attack clarified their intent, striking at a place deeply cherished by Helldivers 2 players.

The official Helldivers 2 account shared striking artwork on X/Twitter, rallying players to "Avenge Mars."

Mars has been razed by the Illuminate. All Helldiver Training Sites across the planet, where rigorous, thorough, and safe training of the Galaxy's Elite has long occurred, have been destroyed. The expert and seasoned facility PA operators who facilitated the training died… pic.twitter.com/16yEhLK0MM

— HELLDIVERS™ 2 (@helldivers2) May 20, 2025

The call to action has ignited passion among Helldivers 2 players, who are embracing the narrative with fervor. One player posted a Starship Troopers GIF, echoing Rico’s resolve to fight after his hometown’s destruction, while another shared the now-iconic closed fist meme. Helldivers 2 players continue to dive into the game’s immersive storytelling.

Amid the dramatic posts, some players are injecting humor. "Only Super Earth Drill Instructors get to take out Helldivers on Mars!" quipped one user. References to DOOM and other pop culture staples are also gaining traction.

The Illuminate’s invasion of Super Earth is in full swing with Helldivers 2's Heart of Democracy update, launched today. Players can deploy to the planet to fend off the alien squid forces, supported by new SEAF reinforcements, though the battle remains intense. As Major Orders unfold, expect more emotional twists from Joel and Arrowhead Game Studios.