Before installing this cooperative shooter, knowing its storage footprint helps you manage your computer’s hard drive space. If you’re wondering exactly how big is Helldivers 2 PC, the answer is approximately 100 GB. This is the official storage requirement listed by the developers, and planning for this space is crucial for a smooth installation and future updates.
How Big Is Helldivers 2 Pc
The direct answer is that Helldivers 2 on PC requires around 100 GB of available storage space. This is the figure listed on its Steam and PlayStation Store pages. You should consider this a minimum target, as having extra free space ensures better performance and room for patches.
Official Storage Requirements
Arrowhead Game Studios, the developer, has set clear system requirements. For the storage line, they specify “100 GB available space.” This is a significant amount, comparable to many other modern AAA titles. It reflects the game’s detailed environments, high-resolution textures, and extensive audio files.
Breaking Down The 100 GB Footprint
What makes up this 100 GB? It’s not just the core game. The space includes:
- High-definition textures for diverse planets and enemy models.
- Full voice acting and a robust sound effects library.
- All the game mechanics, enemy AI, and mission structures.
- Initial space for the anti-cheat software and game launcher.
This comprehensive package is why the install size is what it is.
Comparing Helldivers 2 Size To Other Games
Context helps understand this requirement. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Helldivers 2 (100 GB): Sits in the upper-mid range for modern shooters.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (~149 GB): Notably larger.
- Destiny 2 (~105 GB): Very similar footprint.
- Deep Rock Galactic (~3 GB): Drastically smaller, being an older title.
So, while substantial, Helldivers 2 is not the largest game out there, but it’s certainly not a lightweight.
Pre-Installation Storage Management
Before you click ‘install,’ taking a few minutes to manage your drive can prevent errors and frustration. You need to ensure you have more than just 100 GB free.
Checking Your Available Disk Space
Here is how to check your space on Windows:
- Open ‘File Explorer’ by pressing Windows key + E.
- Click on ‘This PC’ from the left sidebar.
- Look at your primary drive (usually C:). The ‘Free space’ is shown.
- Ensure this number is comfortably above 100 GB, ideally 120-150 GB.
If your free space is to low, you will need to make room.
Cleaning Up Space For Installation
If you’re short on space, here are effective ways to free some up:
- Uninstall games you no longer play via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Use Disk Cleanup (search for it in the Start menu) to remove temporary files.
- Clear your download folder and recycle bin.
- Consider moving large media files (like videos) to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Review and uninstall any redundant software applications.
These steps can quickly reclaim dozens of gigabytes.
Using Storage Sense And Third-Party Tools
Windows has a built-in feature called Storage Sense that can automate cleanup. You can find it in Settings > System > Storage. Turn it on and configure it to delete temporary files and empty the recycle bin regularly. For a more thorough clean, tools like WinDirStat or TreeSize Free can visually show you which folders are taking up the most space, making it easy to identify large, unused files.
Installation Process And Location
Where you install the game can impact loading times and your system’s organization. Choosing the right drive is an important step.
Choosing The Right Drive (SSD Vs HDD)
This is a critical decision. The developers strongly recommend installing Helldivers 2 on a Solid State Drive (SSD). Here’s why:
- Faster Loading Times: An SSD can cut loading screens to seconds versus minutes on an HDD.
- Better Performance: Texture streaming and level transitions are smoother, reducing stuttering.
- Future-Proofing: Most new games are optimized for SSD speeds.
If you have both drive types, always prioritize your SSD for games like this.
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Once your drive is ready, follow these steps:
- Open the Steam client and ensure you are logged into your account.
- Search for “Helldivers 2” in the store and purchase it or locate it in your library if already owned.
- Click the ‘Install’ button. A window will appear asking you to choose an install location.
- Select the drive with sufficient space (preferably your SSD). You can also create a new library folder if needed.
- Confirm the installation. Steam will show the download size and required space.
- Wait for the download and installation to complete. The time this takes depends on your internet speed.
Remember, the initial download may be slightly smaller due to compression, but the final installed size will expand to the full 100 GB.
Post-Installation Size Considerations
The game’s size will not remain static at 100 GB. Over time, updates and added content will increase its footprint on your drive.
Understanding Game Updates And Patches
Live service games like Helldivers 2 receive frequent updates. These patches, which fix bugs and add features, require additional space. Steam needs extra room to download the update files and then apply them to the existing game files. A 5 GB patch might temporarily require 10-15 GB of free space during the update process. This is why maintaining a buffer of free space on your drive is so important.
Managing Future Content And DLC
Arrowhead has plans for ongoing content, including new enemies, missions, and weapons. This “Warbonds” and other free content will gradually increase the game’s size. While major expansions might be months away, they will also add to the storage requirement. Periodically checking your drive’s free space, even after the initial install, is a good habit. You don’t want to be caught without enough room for a critical update when a new major order starts.
Optimizing Performance And Troubleshooting
Ensuring you have the space is one thing, but making sure the game runs well is another. Your storage setup can directly affect performance.
Impact Of Drive Speed On Gameplay
A slow or nearly full drive can cause issues beyond long load times. If your drive is over 90% full, it can slow down your entire system, including game performance. This can manifest as texture pop-in, where environments look blurry before sharpening, or stuttering during intense action. Keeping your game drive with at least 10-20% free space helps maintain its speed and efficiency. Defragmenting an HDD (not needed for SSDs) can also help if the game is installed on a mechanical drive.
Common Installation Errors And Fixes
Sometimes, installations hit snags. Here are common issues related to disk space:
- “Not Enough Disk Space” Error: Double-check you have over 100 GB free. Remember, Windows and other applications need space to, so the 100 GB is for the game alone.
- Disk Write Error: This can indicate a failing drive or permission issues. Try running Steam as an administrator or verifying the integrity of your game files through Steam.
- Slow Download/Install: If other programs are heavily using the disk, pause them. Ensure your download region in Steam settings is correctly set to a location near you.
Most problems can be solved by confirming you have enough space and that your drive is healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helldivers 2 100 GB On All Platforms?
Yes, the 100 GB requirement is consistent for both the PC and PlayStation 5 versions. Both platforms require similar amounts of space for the same high-fidelity assets.
Can I Install Helldivers 2 On An External Hard Drive?
Technically, yes, if it’s a USB 3.0 or faster drive. However, performance will likely be poor, with very long loading times and potential stuttering. It is not recommended. An external SSD would be a much better option than an external HDD if you must use one.
Will The Size Of Helldivers 2 Get Bigger?
Almost certainly. As the game receives more updates, patches, and additional content, the total install size will grow. It’s wise to plan for this by having extra storage capacity available on your chosen drive.
What Happens If I Don’t Have Enough Space For An Update?
Steam will not be able to download or apply the update. You will need to free up the necessary space on your drive before you can update the game and continue playing online, as patches are usually mandatory.
How Much Space Should I Really Have Free For Helldivers 2?
Aim for 120-150 GB of free space on your target drive. This covers the 100 GB install and provides a buffer for temporary update files and future content, ensuring smooth operation without constant storage management.