Amidst Ongoing Backlash Over Helldivers 2’s Killzone Collab Pricing, CCO Pilestedt Explains Arrowhead’s Decision Against Warbond Approach

Since Helldivers 2 developer Arrowhead rolled out its first crossover featuring the PlayStation shooter Killzone yesterday, the reaction from players over the pricing has been anything but positive. CCO Johan Pilestedt stepped in to explain that the original plan was to release the new gear as a warbond, but the studio decided to split them into individual superstore items instead.

Yesterday, we highlighted the main gripe players have with the Killzone crossover: the steep cost in super credits for the new assault rifle and armor set. Players are confronted with prices that range from half to 60% of a full warbond for each piece, which has raised more than a few eyebrows.

Naturally, frustrated players want to know why this release didn’t come as a bundled warbond, which would have made it easier to assess the overall cost in one go. Some Reddit users have pointed out that even a bundle wouldn’t have entirely quelled the outcry over the high super credit prices.

The leaks suggesting this collaboration would initially be offered as a warbond rather than individual superstore items turned out to be accurate.

Pilestedt took to Twitter to address the concerns, apologizing for the steep prices and emphasizing that they are considering all feedback. He explained that they shifted away from the warbond model to avoid negative perceptions stemming from its higher price. He added, “It’s an ecosystem that needs to be sustainable. If we do stuff you like, we can keep creating content you hopefully enjoy… and that continues until it no longer works.”

Furthermore, on the Helldivers 2 Discord server, Arrowhead CEO Shams Jorjani engaged with the community, addressing more pricing concerns well into the evening. In response to a player questioning Sony’s influence over in-game pricing, Jorjani clarified, “Of course – it’s a partnership – but we are in the driving seat behind the decisions. This one is on us.”

Jorjani also explained that when players purchase items like this Killzone gear, it enables Arrowhead to offer content such as the Illuminate in free updates. He mentioned, “Part of Omens of Tyranny was made by co-development studios that we could not have done unless you fine folks supported us through super credit purchases.”

So, what do you think? Would you have preferred if the Helldivers 2/Killzone crossover had been released as a warbond? Share your thoughts with us!