In the latest update for *Helldivers 2*, the battlefront has escalated dramatically with an invasion of Super Earth now underway. The conflict has hit close to home, as the Illuminate have devastatingly razed the neighboring planet of Mars. This shocking development has sparked a fierce desire for retribution among players, who are eager to take action against this aggression.
In-game news reports have painted a grim picture, confirming that Mars has been completely destroyed by the Illuminate. The destruction extended to the Helldiver Training Sites on Mars, where dedicated facility operators lost their lives defending the planet. When players open the Galaxy Map in *Helldivers 2*, they are confronted with the haunting image of a destroyed, yet still visible, mass of rock that was once Mars.
⚠️⚠️⚠️ MARS HAS BEEN DESTROYED ⚠️⚠️⚠️ pic.twitter.com/sAzkM08qGz
— Helldivers NOW (@Helldivers_NOW) May 20, 2025
Until recently, Mars served as the training ground for Helldivers gearing up to spread democracy across the galaxy. The abrupt change in tutorial zones had already raised concerns among the community, but the true purpose behind the shift is now clear: the invasion by the Illuminate has claimed a place of sentimental value for all *Helldivers 2* players.
Mars has been razed by the Illuminate. All Helldiver Training Sites across the planet, where rigorous, thorough, and safe training of the Galaxy's Elite has long occured, have been destroyed. The expert and seasoned facility PA operators who facilitated the training died… pic.twitter.com/16yEhLK0MM
— HELLDIVERS™ 2 (@helldivers2) May 20, 2025
The official *Helldivers 2* account has leveraged this emotional moment to rally players, posting promotional art on X/Twitter with the call to "Avenge Mars." This appeal has resonated deeply with the community, with many players embracing the narrative. Some have shared GIFs and memes, like the iconic Starship Troopers reference to Rico's determination and the closed fist meme that has quickly become a symbol of solidarity among *Helldivers 2* players.
While many are fully immersed in the game's storyline, others are enjoying the lighter side of the situation. One player humorously remarked, "Hey, the only people who are allowed to kill Helldivers on Mars are Super Earth Drill Instructors!" References to other media, like *DOOM*, have also surfaced, adding to the fun and engagement.
The invasion of Super Earth by the Illuminate forces is part of the *Heart of Democracy* update, which was released today. Players can now drop onto Super Earth to defend it against the extraterrestrial threat, even with the support of new SEAF units. The situation remains chaotic, and as the game progresses through upcoming Major Orders, the community braces for more intense and emotional developments from game master Joel and developer Arrowhead Game Studios.
