Helldivers 2 not launching on Steam error: Possible fixes and reasons

The Helldivers 2 not launching on Steam error has frustrated many gamers since the release of the Into The Unjust update (Patch 01.004.000) on September 2, 2025. Some players claim that after applying the most recent patch, the game would not start or sometimes crashed when launched.

Read on to learn more about the potential solutions and underlying causes of the Helldivers 2 not launching on Steam error.

Note: These are general workarounds that may not work for everyone.

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Steps to fix the Helldivers 2 not launching on Steam error

Playing the game at low settings can help reduce the load on your CPU and GPU (Image via PlayStation Publishing LLC)

If you're facing this problem, here are some methods worth trying.

1) Verify the integrity of game files

• Open your Steam Library and locate Helldivers 2.
• Right-click the game and select Properties.
• Go to the Local Files tab.
• Click Verify integrity of game files. Steam will automatically scan for damaged or missing files and replace them. This often resolves issues caused by the latest patch.

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2) Clear Steam cache

• On the Steam client, click the Steam option at the top left corner.
• Select Settings, then go to Downloads.
• Choose Clear Download Cache. This process will remove temporary files that may be causing conflicts. Restart your computer before attempting to launch the game again.

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3) Restart the Steam client

Sometimes, even the simplest solution can work wonders. Close the Steam client entirely and relaunch it. This refreshes the system and may help bypass minor errors.

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4) Reinstall Helldivers 2

If the game is not launching on Steam error still hasn't been resolved, try uninstalling and reinstalling the game. A fresh install will ensure the relevant files are in place and compatible with the latest update.

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5) Update GPU drivers

Helldivers 2 relies heavily on graphics performance, which means that outdated GPU drivers could result in launch failure. Updating drivers via NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel's official software might resolve performance issues.

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6) Play on really low settings

Lowering in-game graphics settings is another temporary workaround that could help with the game not launching on Steam error. Since Helldivers 2 is heavy on both the CPU and GPU, playing it at low settings could potentially help prevent crashes on startup.

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Possible reasons behind the error

The Helldivers 2 not launching on Steam error appears to be linked to performance bottlenecks and file conflicts introduced with the Into The Unjust update. Some players have also raised their concerns on various social media platforms, such as Reddit, to bring the matter to light.

Since Helldivers 2 is a resource-heavy title, even minor software issues could cause the game to fail at startup. The update may also have introduced compatibility problems that affect certain hardware configurations.

Until Arrowhead Game Studios provides an official patch, the best workaround is to use the aforementioned methods and ensure your system is updated.

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Follow Sportskeeda for more updates:

• Helldivers 2 Into The Unjust Update release countdown
• Helldivers 2 Into The Unjust patch notes (September 2, 2025) revealed
• Helldivers 2 review