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Failed to Join Game

Arrowhead Helldivers 2

Severity: Moderate

What Does This Error Mean?

Failed to Join Game in Helldivers 2 usually means the game's matchmaking servers are overloaded or the specific session is full. Try again — the servers are often under heavy load. If it persists, restart the game.

Affected Models

  • PC (Steam)
  • PlayStation 5

Common Causes

  • Game servers overloaded (very common during peak hours)
  • Selected mission lobby is full
  • Friend's game has a full squad
  • NAT type issues preventing peer-to-peer connection
  • Crossplay causing connection incompatibility

How to Fix It

  1. Try joining again — server capacity fluctuates.

    Helldivers 2 has had persistent server capacity issues since launch. Retrying often works after a few attempts.

  2. Try hosting your own game instead of joining.

    Hosting creates a fresh session. Other players can then join you.

  3. Restart the game completely.

    Close and reopen the game to get a fresh connection to the servers.

  4. Toggle crossplay off/on in settings.

    Sometimes crossplay matchmaking has issues. Try with crossplay off if you are having trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Helldivers 2 always full?

The game's popularity exceeded expectations. Arrowhead has been gradually increasing server capacity since launch.

Can I play Helldivers 2 solo?

Yes. You can play missions solo without matchmaking. Start a mission without enabling matchmaking or set it to Friends Only.