Arrowhead Game Studios To Self-Fund Next Game After Helldivers 2 Success: What it Means for Future Releases

Helldivers 2 has been a phenomenal success for both Sony and Arrowhead Game Studios. So successful, in fact, that Arrowhead is now taking complete control over its next project, codenamed "Game 6." This marks a significant shift for the studio, allowing them to self-fund and self-publish their next title, promising greater creative freedom and multi-platform releases.

According to Arrowhead CEO Shams Jorjani, the company's next game will be "100% funded by ourselves so we'll call 100% of those shots." This independence means that Game 6 is likely to launch on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch (or its successor), and PC – a departure from the PlayStation exclusivity that defined Helldivers 2. Jorjani emphasized that Arrowhead's relationship with Sony remains positive, acknowledging that "there would be no Helldivers if it wasn't for them."

While specifics about Game 6 are scarce, Jorjani revealed that a "very, very small team" will begin working on the project in 2025, allowing the majority of Arrowhead to remain focused on supporting and expanding Helldivers 2. Initial "planning and conceptualization" had already begun as of January 2025, but it's likely that the game is still years away from release.

The decision to self-fund also suggests that Game 6 is unlikely to be Helldivers 3, as the rights to the Helldivers IP are owned by Sony. Arrowhead has a diverse history of games, including fantasy titles like Magicka and Gauntlet, as well as the modern shooter The Showdown Effect. This leaves the possibilities wide open for what direction Game 6 might take.

Beyond the development of their next game, Arrowhead is also focused on improving the player experience in Helldivers 2. The studio plans to tweak how players earn Super Credits, the in-game currency used to unlock cosmetics, items, and upgrades. Arrowhead aims to reduce the need for players to grind through the easiest difficulty levels to farm Super Credits. Changes to Warbonds are also being considered. Jorjani emphasized that Arrowhead wants to avoid overwhelming players with monetization options and ensure they can enjoy the game without feeling pressured to spend money.

The future looks bright for Arrowhead Game Studios. The success of Helldivers 2 has provided the studio with the resources and freedom to pursue their creative vision. Whether it's a brand new IP or a return to an existing franchise, fans are eagerly anticipating what Game 6 will bring.

What are your thoughts on Arrowhead going independent? What kind of game would you like to see them create next? Share your opinions in the comments below!

• Arrowhead Game Studios
• Helldivers 2
• Sony