A Helljumper’s Heart: ‘Helldivers 2’s Halo: ODST Crossover Is Light on Halo, But at Least We Get the Assault Rifle

In a surprising and long-rumored move, Helldivers 2 has officially launched a crossover with the beloved Halo franchise, celebrating its recent launch on Xbox Series X|S. This collaboration, which has been dubbed the “Legendary Warbond,” brings a host of new content to the game, inspired by the iconic orbital drop shock troopers of Halo 3: ODST. While the crossover itself is a bit light on true Halo lore and feels more like a thematic tribute than a full-blown event, it does deliver on one key promise that every fan wanted: the classic MA5C Assault Rifle. For many, this is more than enough to justify the price of admission, even if it feels a little less like a proper crossover and more like a gentle nod to a rival IP.

A TRIBUTE, Not a Transformation

The Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST Legendary Warbond, which is available on all platforms, is a premium offering that costs 1,500 Super Credits. It’s a tribute to the “Helljumpers” of the Halo universe, with the in-game lore stating that the new gear is a tribute to the “Obedient Democracy Support Troopers” who are the stars of a beloved animated series on Super Earth. This in-universe explanation, while charming, is a clever way for the developers to include iconic Halo gear without breaking the immersion of the Helldivers 2 universe. While we don’t see any Covenant or Flood, we do get four new weapons, two new armor sets, and a number of new cosmetics, all inspired by the classic game. The weapons include the MA5C Assault Rifle, the M7S SMG, the M90A Shotgun, and the M6C/SOCOM Pistol. The two new armor sets are the A-9 Helljumper and the A-35 Recon, which come with a new passive armor effect called “Feet First” that allows players to make less noise when moving, become immune to leg injuries, and increase the range at which they can find points of interest by 30%. The new cosmetics, which include capes and vehicle patterns, also embrace the ODST theme, with the “Mean Green” color being a subtle but clear reference to the Halo franchise.

The MA5C Assault Rifle: A Fan Favorite Arrives

The true highlight of the new Warbond, for many players, is the inclusion of the MA5C Assault Rifle. The iconic weapon, known for its high rate of fire and built-in ammo counter, is a perfect fit for the fast-paced action of Helldivers 2. The in-game description calls it “the definition of reliable” and it comes equipped with a compass and ammo counter just like in the games. It’s a fantastic addition to the game’s arsenal and a testament to the developers’ commitment to listening to their community. The other weapons, while not as iconic, are also great additions. The M6C/SOCOM Pistol is the first suppressed sidearm in the game, and it also features a built-in laser sight and flashlight, making it an excellent weapon for stealth-focused missions. The M7S SMG, with its non-removable suppressor, is also a great option for players who prefer a more covert approach. This new focus on stealth is a welcome addition and a new way for players to engage with the game’s ever-expanding list of missions and objectives.

The Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST crossover is a great example of how two companies can work together to create something that is not only a commercial success but is also a celebration of two beloved franchises. While some might argue that the crossover is a bit too light on true Halo lore, it is also a fantastic way to introduce new players to the game while also giving long-time fans a fun and nostalgic experience. The new gear is a fantastic addition to the game’s arsenal, and for a game that has already seen a massive surge in popularity, this new content is sure to keep players engaged for a long time to come. For fans who have been asking for a collaboration for months, this new Warbond is a dream come true, and for me, it’s a perfect reason to dive back into the fight for Super Earth.