Gaming

Helldivers 2 review: SIP ON SOME LIBER-TEA!

A thrilling co-op experience

Published

March 5, 2024

Luigi Leonardo

A highly dynamic multiplayer shooter is hard to come by. Most of the main suspects today revolve around the same formulas popular today, such as Counter Strike and Fortnite. Every so often, though, a gem emerges and sparkles through the usual fare. Enter the gem: Helldivers 2.

A lesson in simplicity

Without a doubt, Helldivers 2 is one of those rare games that captures the needs and wants of millions of gamers worldwide. Its success is reminiscent of last year’s Baldur’s Gate 3, a title from a smaller developer that still outshines most of its big-budgeted competitors.

Despite its effect on the market, Helldivers 2’s premise is surprisingly simple: fight against hordes of bug-like aliens or rouge robots. Think of Starship Troopers and Star Wars. Players can team up with up to three more fighters or go at it solo. There are guns, grenades, abilities, and a battle pass. If you’ve seen other shooters these days, the title should look familiar to you.

Players choose their mission from a map, recruit up to three teammates, and drop into a set map filled with enemies. Once there, they can simply accomplish their objective or optionally explore to obtain more goodies.

A lesson in dynamism

Even if it looks similar to other games out there, Helldivers 2 just manages to breathe fresh air into a tired formula. For one, the game does not pull any punches. It’s insanely difficult. Playing as a solo, I could only get to the third highest difficulty (Medium) with some reliability. The rest were practically impossible without teammates. Even then, a co-op session is still difficult and needs strategy.

Additionally, the game has a less traditional way to use abilities. While other games use simple hotkeys to unleash useful abilities, Helldivers 2’s Stratagems need more precise inputs (with directional buttons) to execute. Imagine putting in something like the Konami code before calling in an airstrike. Though annoying at first, the method adds to how frenetic the heat of battle is.

Oh, and these Stratagems aren’t just your typical off-the-shelf abilities either. Sure, you have the usual air strikes and carpet bombings, but the game also locks more essential abilities behind the system, such as ammunition refills and teammate respawn. There’s pure unadulterated adrenaline in trying to revive a fallen teammate while being chased by an army of gigantic bugs.

There’s also an amazing layer of creativity associated with the system. I’ve seen players automate the command sequences on their Elgato Stream Decks (which I absolutely want to try for myself). I’ve also seen one add direction buttons to their Deck and tape it to their wrists for an authentic experience. I don’t normally try hardware mods for games, but the experiments with this one make me want to get into it.

An evolving story

Most shooters today try to introduce the semblance of a story. Call of Duty, for example, has its oft-lackluster story mode. Fortnite has its evolving world. These storytelling methods are often just ways to pad out gameplay, so players can quickly get back into the more active (and more lucrative) multiplayer modes.

Helldivers 2 does away with a story. Players can still grasp at what happened through environmental cues and small lore pickups, but it’s mostly straight to the action. Additionally, there are hilarious recruiting videos done in the style of Starship Troopers.

One of the voice options also has Yuri Lowenthal (a.k.a. Spider-Man in the PlayStation series) screaming frantically every time he takes damage. It’s glorious.

Though the game lacks a conventional story, it has so much flavor to set it apart from other shooters. It feels fun to play, even if it’s just to hear Spider-Man going Spider-Ham on the mic.

An evolving world

It’s impossible to tell what the endgame of Helldivers 2 is. The game has a lot of planets available for conquering. However, the system only allows players to conquer a few at a time. Once enough players win enough missions (which is a staggering number), more sectors will unlock. It’s a collaborative effort between millions of players to unlock the next area.

Currently, there are two “branches.” One involves Bugs, a race of sentient insects that look like a cross between mantises and lobsters. The other involves Cyborgs, cybernetic enemies capable of shooting back. A third “branch” featuring an undetermined faction is still forthcoming.

Additionally, the studio also plans to introduce more ways to traverse the landscape and kill aliens. One such example is a future update to bring in mechs and vehicles.

It’s a grind

Though I’ve sung the game’s praises for a while, it’s time to focus on what might bring the game down a notch. For one, it’s a terrible grind.

There are four different currencies for players in Helldivers 2. The first are Requisition Slips. The easiest to gain, these Slips are meant for obtaining new Stratagems. Players get a substantial amount per mission. Simple enough.

The second are Medals. Players get a scant few per mission. These are used to unlock new items in the season’s Warbonds, the game’s version of battle passes. Unfortunately, this system includes more than just cosmetics. Sometimes, powerful weapons and armor are unlockable.

The third are Super Credits, the currency you can buy with real money. There’s a shop that refreshes often. Thankfully, you can occasionally grab a few Super Credits during missions.

The fourth are Samples. Arguably the most tedious of the bunch, Samples are only obtainable by exploring and looting (and extracting successfully with the Samples) during missions. Higher tiers of Samples are also locked behind higher difficulties. These are all used to unlock significant upgrades including adding more ammo to weapons and reducing cooldowns.

Because of this complex system, it will take a while before you can unlock new toys to play with. Dozens of hours in, and I’m still relying heavily on the default weapons. Of course, you can play enough hours, at high enough difficulties, with enough teammates to grind money consistently. However, it’s still a grind. Thankfully, the base kit is still a load of fun. It’s not a huge loss to miss out on weapons and new Stratagems.

Should you play Helldivers 2?

Helldivers 2 is currently capturing the gaming world, just as Baldur’s Gate 3 did last year. Being in the position it’s in, the game is insanely fun to play solo, with randoms, or with friends. Don’t let the grind scare you; it’s a thrilling experience just on its own.

Related Topics:Helldivers Helldivers 2 PlayStation PS5 Sony PlayStation

Gaming

The next Elder Scrolls game is called Sentinel

And it will be set in Hammerfell.

Published

November 4, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

Can you believe that it’s been over eight years since Bethesda announced The Elder Scrolls VI. Since then, we’ve seen neither hide nor hair of the upcoming title. Today, the studio has mercifully revealed a tiny bit more about the game including its title and setting.

Historically, the Elder Scrolls franchise is not known for its numbering. It’s not The Elder Scrolls III, IV, and V; it’s Morrowind, Oblivion, and Skyrim. Now, we know what The Elder Scrolls VI will be called — Sentinel.

The name is also a huge clue as to where the game will take place. Besides being the name of the game itself, Sentinel is also the capital of Hammerfell, a region in northwest Tamriel. The teaser, which shows a sword being uncovered from a pile of sand, confirms this. After all, the Alik’r Desert is one of the region’s highlights.

Now, Hammerfell is not a new region for players. The region, especially the titular Sentinel, was previously featured in The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall. Obviously, not a lot of gamers would have played this classic game before, so a return will introduce the region to a lot more modern players.

Unfortunately, despite throwing us a bone with the name and the setting, Bethesda did not reveal when the title is coming. Given that Grand Theft Auto VI is launching very soon, the time is ripe for the launch of another much-awaited title.

Gaming

Wild Rift Patch 7.3, celebrates K/DA comeback

K/DA returns with FIRESTARTER

Published

November 2, 2026

GadgetMatch

Riot Games is celebrating the return of virtual K-pop group K/DA with new music, exclusive skins, and major gameplay updates in League of Legends: Wild Rift Patch 7.3.

After a six-year hiatus, K/DA returns with FIRESTARTER, the group’s newest track and the title track of an EP featuring three additional songs. The release marks a new chapter for the virtual group, which brings its latest musical era to the mobile MOBA through the new HEATBRINGER skinline.

To celebrate the comeback, Riot Games hosted FIRE IT UP: The K/DA Comeback Party in the Philippines. The event brought fans together for a listening party featuring music from across Riot Games’ virtual acts, live Wild Rift gameplay, community activities, and exclusive photo opportunities.

Attendees also experienced live AAA ARAM matches featuring gameplay disruptions and augments inspired by Riot Games’ musical universe, including HEARTSTEEL, Pentakill, and TRUE DAMAGE.

K/DA returns with new HEATBRINGER skins

The K/DA comeback introduces the HEATBRINGER skinline, featuring new looks for the group’s four original members: Ahri, Akali, Evelynn, and Kai’Sa.

The skins give the champions a new visual identity inspired by K/DA’s latest musical era, with fiery red and white elements that bring their stage presence to the Rift.

The collection also includes Prestige K/DA HEATBRINGER Evelynn.

The new skins are exclusive to Wild Rift and are scheduled to launch on November 4, 2026.

The comeback extends beyond the cosmetics. With FIRESTARTER and its accompanying EP now available on major music streaming platforms, K/DA’s return brings together Riot Games’ music and gaming communities.

Wild Rift Patch 7.3 overhauls marksmen and item builds

Beyond the K/DA celebration, Patch 7.3 introduces significant gameplay changes that reshape champion builds, jungle strategies, and objective control.

One of the biggest changes targets marksmen, giving critical-strike builds more room to scale. Base critical-strike damage increases from 175% to 200%, while the attack-speed cap rises from 2.5 to 3 attacks per second.

Several marksmen also receive individual adjustments, including Ezreal, Kai’Sa, Twitch, Lucian, Caitlyn, Draven, Miss Fortune, Samira, Zeri, Jinx, Vayne, and Ashe.

The item system gets an overhaul to support these changes. Players can explore new or redesigned options, including Hexoptics, Yun Tal Wildarrows, Fiendhuler Bolts, Stormrazor, Rapid Firecannon, and Immortal Shieldbow.

Lifesteal also receives changes intended to support basic attacks, on-hit damage, and abilities treated as basic attacks.

Support items are part of the update, too. Echoes of Helia is positioned toward offensive supports who want to convert damage into healing, while Ardent Censer, Staff of Flowing Water, and Harmonic Echo also receive changes.

Jungle changes reward efficient farming

Patch 7.3 also changes how junglers approach the early and mid-game.

The updated jungle system rewards consistent camp clearing with bonus gold and introduces a catch-up mechanic for junglers who fall behind. This reduces the pressure to constantly gank and encourages players to balance farming with opportunities to assist their teammates.

Clearing camps also progresses Ecosystem Protection stacks, allowing Smite to scale from 600 to 1,000 and eventually 1,400 true damage.

These changes make efficient farming more important when preparing to secure major objectives such as Baron Nashor, Rift Herald, and Dragons.

Epic monsters also adjust to the pace of each match, scaling according to the average player level rather than simply growing stronger as time passes.

Turrets receive substantial changes as well. Plating now extends to outer, inner, and inhibitor turrets and remains permanently. The new Crystalline Overgrowth mechanic lets turrets accumulate crystals that champions can detonate with their first basic attack.

Together, these changes place greater emphasis on lane pressure, defensive positioning, and coordinated pushes. Winning team fights remains important, but teams must also turn their advantages into meaningful objective damage.

Hwei, Sylas, and Rek’Sai join the roster

Patch 7.3 expands the champion roster with three additions: Hwei, Sylas, and Rek’Sai.

Hwei, the Visionary, brings a flexible set of abilities to the mid lane. His Subject: Disaster, Subject: Serenity, and Subject: Torment ability groups give him tools for dealing damage, supporting allies, and controlling opponents.

Sylas offers explosive damage and crowd control. His kit includes an ability that pulls enemies into a stun-to-knock-up combination, while Kingslayer restores health based on his missing health. His ultimate lets him steal an enemy champion’s ultimate ability.

Rek’Sai brings another approach to initiating team fights. Her Unburrow ability knocks up nearby champions, while her ultimate helps her track nearby enemies before striking.

These additions give players more options for adapting their team compositions and strategies.

Ranked play and game modes get updates

Competitive players also get changes to Ranked and Legendary Ranked.

The S/A and MVP scoring systems now evaluate performance according to a player’s lane and champion role instead of relying on a single universal metric. Strong performances can also yield more Ranked energy.

Legendary Ranked receives adjustments to its seasonal entry requirements for former Grand Masters, alongside a new trial format designed to help top performers advance from Legendary Commander Rank.

Players looking for something different can also try Rift Rumble, a new 3v3 mode played on a symmetrical map. Teams battle for kills and compete to capture ultimate stones that can change how their champions secure eliminations.

Meanwhile, AAA Realm continues to evolve with a music-themed season and new augment cards. These include Sonic Waves, which draws inspiration from Riot Games’ musical acts, including HEARTSTEEL, Pentakill, and TRUE DAMAGE.

A new era for K/DA and Wild Rift

With FIRESTARTER, the HEATBRINGER skins, and a sweeping gameplay update, Patch 7.3 connects Riot Games’ music and gaming communities through a shared celebration.

K/DA’s return gives fans a new soundtrack and fresh looks for their favorite champions, while the gameplay changes introduce new ways to approach champion builds, jungle farming, and map control.

Players can follow Wild Rift Philippines’ official social media channels for updates on the latest patch, champion releases, and in-game content.

K/DA returns with FIRESTARTER.

Gaming

Petit Planet launches December 4

HoYoverse’s cozy life sim arrives soon

Published

November 1, 2026

GadgetMatch

HoYoverse will launch Petit Planet, its first cozy galactic life simulation game, on December 4, 2026. The game will be available on PC, iOS, and Android, with a Nintendo Switch 2 release planned for 2027.

The announcement was made during the Petit Planet Pre-Launch Special Program on November 1. HoYoverse also revealed more details about the game’s characters, gameplay features, and launch events.

Build a planet and meet new Neighbors

In Petit Planet, players take on the role of Planet Tenders who travel across the Starsea with Oumuamua, a Starsea Spirit said to listen to people’s wishes.

Each player starts with their own planet, where they plant a Luca Seed that grows into a Luca Arbor. This tree gradually shapes the planet’s landscape, seasons, and ecosystem.

Players will also meet various Neighbors, including Planet Coordinator Mobai and Starsea Racer Elsasani. Getting to know these characters allows players to develop friendships and discover their individual stories.

Beyond their home planets, players can explore scattered Islets across the Starsea. They can also visit the Galactic Bazaar to play games, participate in auctions, and share their creations with others.

Launch events offer free rewards

HoYoverse has prepared several events to celebrate the game’s launch.

Players can enter a pre-registration lucky draw through the official website for a chance to win prizes. Regular gameplay will also offer more than 1,000 clothing and furniture items for free.

The Besties, Made to Match! event rewards players who invite two friends to pre-register. Each participant will receive an exclusive clothing item.

Starting November 1, the Launch a Planet event will let players design their own planets through the official event website. Participants will also have a chance to win surprise grand prizes.

The first Petit Planet Seasonal Creation Event will begin alongside the game’s launch. Selected fan creations can win cash prizes, in-game rewards, and official merchandise.

Players can also visit the game’s official X account after the special program to receive a Moving Guide and join a giveaway featuring a suitcase, gift cards, and an exclusive luggage tag.

Pre-register for Petit Planet

Petit Planet is now available for pre-registration on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Epic Games Store. Players can search for the game on these platforms to pre-register and receive a notification when it launches.

The game arrives globally on December 4, 2026, for PC, iOS, and Android. A Nintendo Switch 2 version is scheduled for 2027.