Helldivers 2: Can Bugs Fly Now?

Helldivers 2 is an action-packed shooter that has all players working on the same side against the alien bug infestation and the advanced Automatons. With each battle won, we are slowly but surely liberating planets. Arrowhead Game Studios are constantly sending new challenges for us to fight against as we press further into space to win this war.

The latest patch update has seen new bugs, known only as Shriekers, for us to face in Helldivers 2. Let's have a look at what they are and if we will be seeing more of them.

Helldivers 2: What Are the Flying Bugs?

It seems the developers behind Helldivers 2 managed to hide these new creatures in the latest patch. At first, most players thought the update was in our favor. Smaller weaker aliens spawn in larger numbers but the bigger elite bugs will appear less frequently or at least fewer of them will appear. One rocket launcher shot to the face can kill a Charger. Everything was looking up humankind. 

At that point, during our latest drops, players spotted new structures in the distance, looking like trees or spore towers. Then the flying bugs descended. It seems they travel in packs, ambushing unaware Helldivers. One strike can take away over half of our health. They let out a high-pitched shriek as they attack, players naming them Shriekers. 

Like Stalkers, Shriekers will not be around on every mission. When the map has an optional objective to destroy a Shrieker Lair, it's a fair assumption to keep your eyes on the sky. 

Helldivers 2: How to Kill Shriekers

The first piece of advice we will give is to get ready to dodge. Shriekers swoop down, inflict high damage, and fly away. Ensure you are ready for them when you see a Shrieker Lair nearby. 

It is still early to say the best way to kill the flying bugs in Helldivers 2 but we have seen good results from rapid-fire weapons. Shriekers don't take a lot to kill. For the most part, they seem designed for ambushing. Sentries and automated drones are a good defense. 

Exactly like Stalkers, the best strategy is to destroy their lairs. Use a Hellbomb Stratagem, air strikes, or orbital support to take them out and stop Shriekers from spawning. 

Helldivers 2: Are Shriekers Real?

Director of Helldivers 2, Johan Pilestedt tweeted that no such alien exists, even with multiple players posting images of Shriekers and the cover art for the game showing flying bugs.

I've heard rumors of flying bugs in Helldivers 2. I want to officially refute such preposterous claims. Everyone knows that 'Bugs can't fly'. And I'm not alone in thinking this. The Ministry of Truth agrees that this is propaganda from bug sympathizers that want to brainwash good people.

-Johan Pilestedt

For a second, a few people thought this was an official denial until another player of Helldivers 2 posted an image of the cover art Arrowhead released for the game, in which flying bugs are clearly visible. Pilestedt's only reply was that traitors manipulated the image. 

It's good to see that the developers behind Helldivers 2 can make such an impressive game and also take the time to have fun with their fans. 

There you go, everything we know about the newly discovered Shriekers in Helldivers 2. Be sure to keep up the fight for liberty and don't listen to the Ministry of Truth. We are on the frontlines of the galactic war. They don't know what we have seen out there.