GDC 2025 Session Viewer
'Helldivers 2': Capturing Lightning in a Bottle
Johan Pilestedt (Chief Creative Officer, Arrowhead Game Studios AB)
Location: Room 3004, West Hall
Date: Wednesday, March 19
Time: 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Pass Type: All Access Pass, Core Pass - Get your pass now!
Track: Design
Format: Lecture
Vault Recording: Video
This session offers a candid and self-deprecating retrospective on eight years of development at Arrowhead Game Studios. Attendees will look back and learn how leading a studio, designing and developing a smash hit, and later running an innovative live service experience with a game-mastered global narrative presented challenges that required consistency and planning—areas where Arrowhead unfortunately lacked. The session will explore how the team compensated with a non-negotiable philosophy, improvisation, grit, and camaraderie, and how these qualities eventually paved the way for their success. Gain valuable insights into overcoming shortcomings and achieving triumph in the complex world of game development.
Takeaway
Attendees will be inspired by the strong philosophy that, despite a long development cycle, led to Helldivers 2's success. They will learn how cohesive leadership, staying true to the game's core fantasy, and leveraging improvisation and camaraderie created innovative experiences that stood out in a crowded market.
Intended Audience
Those interested in actionable insights on successful game development. This talk covers the impact of organizational structure and team dynamics, the importance of staying true to a game's core vision, and innovative approaches to live service models—all illustrated through the development of Helldivers 2.
