Helldivers 2 Can’t Join Friends? Fix It

If Helldivers 2 won’t let you join a friend’s game, the cause is almost always a crossplay or network settings mismatch, not a server outage. You fix it by checking your in-game crossplay setting, verifying your friend’s lobby is set to Public or Friends Only, and confirming your NAT type or firewall isn’t blocking the connection. Below are the exact steps, the reasons behind each fix, and what to do when the standard solutions don’t work.

Why You Can’t Join Friends in Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 uses a peer-to-peer connection for its co-op missions, meaning one player’s console or PC acts as the host. For you to join, the game must match you with that host through its matchmaking service, and then your two devices must be able to talk to each other directly. When that direct connection fails, you’ll see errors like “Failed to join game lobby” or an endless loading screen. The most common reasons are:

• Crossplay is disabled on one side (PC vs. PlayStation 5).
• The host’s lobby is set to “Invite Only” or “Solo.”
• Your network uses a strict NAT type that blocks peer-to-peer traffic.
• An outdated game version on one player’s system.
• Antivirus or firewall software on PC is blocking the game’s ports.

Quick Fixes to Try First

Before diving into network settings, try these simple steps—they solve a large share of join issues:

1. Restart the game on both your system and your friend’s. A fresh session clears temporary matchmaking glitches.
2. Have the host send a new invite through the in-game social menu (not the platform’s party system). Sometimes invites expire or fail to register.
3. Switch the lobby to Public temporarily. The host can set it to Friends Only after you join, but Public often forces the game to refresh the matchmaking state.
4. Check for game updates on both systems. If your versions differ, the game won’t allow a connection.
5. Both players should restart their routers if the issue persists—this clears NAT table entries that may be stale.

Verify Crossplay and Lobby Settings

Helldivers 2 supports crossplay between PC and PlayStation 5, but it’s off by default on some platforms. If you’re on PC and your friend is on PS5 (or vice versa), do this:

1. Open the Options menu in-game.
2. Go to Gameplay settings.
3. Scroll to Crossplay and ensure it’s set to Enabled.
4. Have your friend do the same on their system.

If you’re both on the same platform, crossplay doesn’t matter, but it’s still worth checking that the host’s lobby isn’t set to “Invite Only.” The host can change this from the Social tab by selecting their current session and adjusting the privacy. A lobby set to “Friends Only” works for direct friends, but “Invite Only” requires a fresh invite each time.

Network and NAT Troubleshooting

If settings are correct but you still can’t join, the problem is likely your network’s NAT type. Helldivers 2 works best with NAT Type 1 (Open) or Type 2 (Moderate). Type 3 (Strict) often blocks peer-to-peer connections. To check your NAT type:

• On PlayStation 5: Go to Settings > Network > Connection Status. Look for “NAT Type.”
• On PC: The game doesn’t show NAT directly, but you can check your router’s status page or use Windows network diagnostics.

If you have a strict NAT, try these fixes:

1. Enable UPnP on your router. This automatically opens the necessary ports for the game.
2. Forward the ports Helldivers 2 uses. The official ports are TCP 443, 1000-2000, and UDP 443, 1000-2000. Forward these to your console’s or PC’s local IP address.
3. Put your console/PC in the DMZ as a last resort—this exposes it to the internet, so only do this temporarily and understand the security risks.

On PC, also check that Windows Firewall or your antivirus isn’t blocking the game. Go to Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app through the firewall, and make sure Helldivers 2 is allowed on both Private and Public networks. If you use a third-party antivirus, add an exception for the game’s executable.

When the Fix Isn’t Working: Server Status and Regions

Sometimes the issue isn’t on your end. Helldivers 2 relies on dedicated matchmaking servers, and during peak hours or after a major update, those servers can struggle. If you’ve tried everything above and still can’t join, check the official Helldivers 2 status page or the game’s social media for outage reports. Also, if you and your friend are in different regions, try switching your matchmaking region to the same one:

1. From the main menu, press Options.
2. Go to Gameplay settings.
3. Scroll to Matchmaking Region and set it to the same region for both players (e.g., Europe, North America).

This can reduce latency and avoid region-based matchmaking restrictions.

Common Error Codes and What They Mean

You might see specific error messages when trying to join. Here are the most common ones and their typical causes:

• “Failed to join game lobby” – Usually a NAT or connection timeout. Try the network fixes above.
• “Connection timed out” – The host’s connection is unstable, or your firewall is blocking the handshake.
• “Game session no longer available” – The host started a mission or left the lobby. Ask them to re-invite you.
• “Crossplay mismatch” – One player has crossplay off. Enable it on both sides.

If you see an error code that isn’t listed, take a screenshot and search for it on the official Helldivers 2 support forums—other players often post workarounds for new issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join a friend who is on a different platform?
Yes, Helldivers 2 supports crossplay between PC and PlayStation 5. Make sure crossplay is enabled in the Gameplay settings on both systems, and that you’re both on the latest game version.

Why does it say “Failed to join game lobby” even though I have an invite?
This usually means your network can’t establish a peer-to-peer connection with the host. Check your NAT type, enable UPnP, or forward the required ports. Also, have the host restart the game and send a fresh invite.

Do I need PlayStation Plus to play online with friends on PS5?
Yes, on PlayStation 5, an active PlayStation Plus subscription is required for online multiplayer, including co-op in Helldivers 2. On PC, no subscription is needed.

Why can I join random players but not my friend?
If you can join public lobbies but not a specific friend, the problem is likely with the friend’s network (strict NAT) or their lobby settings. Ask them to set the lobby to Public and try again, then switch back to Friends Only after you join.

Does having mods installed prevent me from joining friends?
Helldivers 2 doesn’t support mods officially, and using third-party mods can cause connection issues or even bans. If you or your friend use mods, disable them and verify game files before trying to join.

Can I join a friend who is in a different country?
Yes, but you may experience higher latency. If you can’t join, try setting your matchmaking region to the same one in the Gameplay settings. If that doesn’t work, the host’s internet may be too restrictive for cross-region connections.

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