How to Fix "Stuck on Ship Screen" Error in Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 is a popular top-down shooter game developed by Arrowhead Game Studios. It can be frustrating when players get stuck on the ship screen when trying to start or join a multiplayer game. Here are some troubleshooting steps to fix this issue.

What Causes "Stuck on Ship Screen" Error in Helldivers 2

This bug is often caused by connectivity issues between the player's game and the Helldivers 2 servers. Possible causes include:

• Poor internet connection
• Firewall/port blocking Helldivers 2 traffic
• Helldivers 2 server outages
• Corrupt game files

Trying the below solutions can help resolve the root cause and get past the stuck ship screen.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix "Stuck on Ship Screen" Error in Helldivers 2

Check Internet Connection

Make sure you have a stable, high-speed internet connection when trying to play online. Use an ethernet cable if possible, as WiFi can be unreliable. Run a speed test to check for any issues.

Verify Firewall/Ports

Your firewall or router may be blocking the ports Helldivers 2 uses to connect to multiplayer matches. You can also try temporarily disabling your firewall to test.

Retry During Non-Peak Hours

Helldivers 2 servers can get overwhelmed during peak gaming hours in the evening. Trying to connect during off-peak hours may result in better luck getting past the ship screen.

Validate Game Files

Corrupt game files can prevent Helldivers 2 from connecting properly. Follow these steps to verify and restore game files:

1. Close Helldivers 2 and launch the Steam client
2. Right-click on Helldivers 2 in your Library
3. Select Properties then navigate to the Local Files tab
4. Click "Verify Integrity of Game Files" and let Steam check and restore missing files

Contact Support if Issues Persist

If the above steps do not resolve the stuck-on-ship screen issue, your best bet is to contact the Helldivers 2 support team via their help site or social channels. They may be able to further troubleshoot or determine if there are any server-side problems.

Wait for the Bug Fixing Patch

This is a known bug that the developers are likely working to patch. Waiting for a game update and checking release notes for fixes can help resolve stuck ship screens.

While you wait for an official fix, following certain best practices can reduce the chances of running into this issue:

• Close background apps to optimize internet bandwidth for Helldivers 2
• Avoid joining multiplayer matches right after booting up the game
• Party up with friends before searching for a match as a group

Being unable to progress past the ship screen can be annoying, but trying the above solutions and workarounds should get you back to blasting bugs in no time. Patience and working with the devs, not against them, is key.

Summary of Fixes

• Check internet connection and test speeds
• Verify firewalls/ports are open
• Try connecting during non-peak hours
• Validate/repair game files through Steam
• Contact Helldivers 2 support for further help
• Wait for the official patch fixing the bug
• Optimize bandwidth and avoid searching alone right after booting up

Following this troubleshooting guide should help resolve any stuck-on-ship screen issues so you can enjoy playing Helldivers 2 online again.