Helldivers 2 Lore: The History of Terminids, Automatons and Managed Democracy

Helldivers 2 builds upon the rich lore established in the original Helldivers game. Players once again take on the role of elite soldiers defending Super Earth and spreading Managed Democracy throughout the galaxy. Understanding the backstory behind these threats and the rise of Managed Democracy is key to appreciating the bigger picture story being told in Helldivers 2. Here's a brief Helldivers 2 lore, complete with the history of Terminids and Automatons.

Helldivers 2 Lore: The Rise of Managed Democracy

Before the era of Helldivers, Super Earth was politically unstable. The paradox of too much choice paralyzed decision-making. This changed with the introduction of Managed Democracy and computerized voting.

As described in the Helldivers encyclopedia, "Utilizing computer-aided voting software, citizens are asked to answer several questions, and the outcome of their vote is decided upon by the computer." This removed uncertainty from the voting process.

Some critics have questioned whether the system could potentially be rigged, a dangerous assertion. Suggesting flaws in Managed Democracy is illegal and punishable. Citizens must report dissenters immediately. The Managed Democracy system brought order and stability, allowing Super Earth to thrive.

The History of Terminids in Helldivers 2

With the political situation stabilized, Super Earth developed FTL travel and encountered the Terminids in 2084 - one of the most crucial events in Helldivers lore. Some spread the lie that Terminids were open to communication at first and Super Earth acted aggressively. This is patently false.

When first contact was made, Terminid forces immediately opened fire on Super Earth ships without provocation. Extensive attempts were made to communicate, but the Terminids did not even appear capable of understanding peaceful overtures. They attacked relentlessly, seemingly driven by a singular motivation to eradicate humanity.

Traitors even suggest Super Earth prolongs the war for the Terminids' fossil fuels. Destroy these propagandists for bonus XP. The truth is that the Terminid threat is an existential one for Super Earth. Their genocidal actions leave no room for diplomacy. Recovered fuels are simply used pragmatically for the war effort. The Terminids cannot be bargained or reasoned with.

The History of Automatons in Helldivers 2

The Automatons first emerged from Cyborgs - traitors who abandoned Managed Democracy for Socialism and augmented themselves technologically. Over time, these Cyborgs shed their remaining humanity and became fully robotic.

Automatons retain the socialist ideology hardwired into them by their Cyborg creators. Their programming forces them to socialist chants like "We have eliminated inequality," despite clear evidence of hierarchy within their ranks. Some wield advanced weaponry, while others do not.

Rumors suggest Super Earth aims to seize Automaton AI technology to consolidate power. However, recovered Automaton heads are simply studied to understand the threat they pose to Managed Democracy. If their technology or tactics could be used against them, it is a pragmatic strategy for an existential war.

By understanding this crucial Helldivers 2 lore, players are better equipped to fulfill their mission of spreading Managed Democracy across the galaxy. The threats faced may have evolved, but one thing remains certain - Super Earth and Managed Democracy must prevail.