The most common cause identified for this issue revolves around network-related problems, which include server-side issues that prevent a stable connection between the player’s game client and the game servers. An issue with the nProtect GameGuard anti-cheat system can also prevent the game from establishing a connection with the servers. This guide will take you through various methods that can be helpful in resolving the mentioned error message.
1. Run Steam as an Administrator
The first thing you should do is run the Steam app with administrative privileges. This action resolves any permission conflicts that are causing the error message in Helldivers 2. The game process will be able to inherit the elevated permissions from the Steam app, which should help to overcome third-party interference.
2. Disable Third-Party VPN
Using a third-party VPN connection can lead to issues with the game process connecting to the game server. This issue can result from network inconsistencies with the VPN server to which you are connected. To resolve the issue, disconnect any active VPN connection before launching the game.
3. Allow Helldivers 2 through Windows Firewall
The Windows Firewall might be blocking network requests from the Helldivers 2 process, preventing the game from establishing a connection with its servers. To address this, you need to add a rule to the Windows Firewall configuration that allows connections from the Helldivers 2 process.
4. Delete Helldivers 2 Cache
Helldivers 2 creates a local cache folder in Windows to store various user settings. If there is damage or misconfiguration within the cache files, it can lead to the error message in question. Deleting the game cache is safe and will force the game to generate a new one upon the next startup.
5. Reinstall GameGuard
An inconsistency with the GameGuard anti-cheat software used by Helldivers 2 can also trigger the connection issue. The game requires an active GameGuard connection to process server requests. Reinstalling GameGuard may resolve the problem.
6. Disable IPv6
IPv6 technology, introduced to accommodate the increasing number of internet devices, can sometimes cause connectivity issues in Windows by interfering with network requests. Disabling this protocol can help.
7. Change DNS Server
Incorrect DNS resolution of Helldivers 2 requests by your network’s DNS server can also prevent the game from establishing a connection. Changing your DNS server in Windows could help with this issue.
8. Reset Windows Network Settings
Inconsistencies in the Windows network settings can also cause the “Unable to establish a connection to game” error message in Helldivers 2. Resetting the network settings to default can clear any anomalies and allow the game process to connect to the server.
9. Perform a Clean Boot
Lastly, if the problem persists after trying the above methods, there’s a chance a third-party app is interfering with Helldivers 2. Interference from third-party applications is not uncommon, and performing a clean boot can determine if this is the case. A clean boot starts your system with only essential Windows services running on startup. If the error message disappears during a clean boot, you can identify the problematic app by gradually enabling third-party services one by one. If the error message persists, consider contacting the support team at Arrowhead for further assistance.
