Helldivers 2 relies on playing together with others online. However, many players encounter frustrating "Unable to Join Friend" messages when trying to connect in multiplayer. This points to an issue with the game's network connectivity.
Specifically, the error occurs when attempting to join a friend's hosted session directly from your platform's friend list. The game fails to correctly link up with your friend's lobby on the backend, producing the "unable to join" error.
This error appears tied to current instabilities with Helldivers 2's lobbies and matchmaking capabilities following the launch. Developers Arrowhead Game Studios have acknowledged issues and are working on a fix. But in the meantime, some workarounds can get you playing cooperatively.
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How to Fix the "Unable to Join Friend" Error in Helldivers 2
Potential solutions include:
- Updating the game and system software
- Verifying game file integrity (PC only)
- Disabling the Steam overlay (PC only)
- Turning off Helldivers 2 crossplay support
- Clearing the console cache (consoles only)
- Using friend codes to manually team up
While annoying, this issue has workarounds until an official patch resolves it. Follow these tips to tackle "Unable to Join Friend" errors:
Update Software
Ensure Helldivers 2 and your PC or console system software are fully updated. Outdated platforms can prevent connecting.
Verify Game Files (PC)
If playing on Steam, validate all game files haven't become corrupted. Right-click Helldivers 2, access Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity.
Disable Overlays
Disable the Steam overlay for Helldivers 2 by unchecking "Enable Steam Overlay" in Properties > General. Overlays sometimes disrupt connections.
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Turn Off Crossplay
In the Helldivers 2 options menu, turn off Crossplay support. Though crossplay enables wider multiplayer, it can currently cause issues.
Clear Console Cache
On PS4/PS5, clearing the cache may help. Fully power down the system, unplug for a couple of minutes, then reconnect and reboot.
Use Friend Codes
Currently, the only reliable workaround is adding friends manually with codes instead of random matchmaking.
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With some luck, one of those troubleshooting tips allows bypassing the bug while the development team deploys an official fix in a future patch update. Stay vigilant Helldivers!
Read our other guides on Helldivers 2 as well:
- How To Destroy Automaton Dropships in Helldivers 2
- Helldivers 2 Guide: How to Use Emote in Helldivers 2?
- Helldivers 2: Stuck in Drop Pod Error Fix
- Helldivers 2: How To Destroy Fuel Reserves & Ammunition Stockpiles
- All Helldivers 2 Stratagems Codes (Complete Codes & Usage Guide)
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