How to Fix Helldivers 2 Black Screen on Startup

Experiencing a black screen when launching helldivers 2 black screen on startup can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to dive into the action. This issue can stem from various factors, including hardware compatibility, outdated software, or corrupted game files. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to resolve this problem and get back to your mission.

Why Does Helldivers 2 Show a Black Screen?

A black screen on startup is a common issue in many games, including Helldivers 2. This problem can arise due to several reasons:

• Hardware Compatibility: Your computer’s hardware might not meet the game’s minimum requirements, leading to display issues.
• Outdated Graphics Drivers: Graphics drivers that are not up-to-date can cause conflicts, resulting in a black screen.
• Corrupted Game Files: If some of the game’s files are missing or corrupted, it can prevent the game from launching correctly.
• Incorrect Game Settings: Settings that are incompatible with your system can lead to display problems.

Understanding the root cause is the first step toward resolving the issue.

How to Fix the Black Screen Issue

To address the black screen problem in Helldivers 2, follow these steps:

Wait a Few Minutes

Sometimes, the game may take a moment to load, especially on systems with slower hardware. If you encounter a black screen, wait for a few minutes to see if the game progresses to the main menu.

Restart the Game

Closing and reopening the game can resolve temporary glitches that cause a black screen.

Restart Your Computer

A simple reboot can clear system memory and resolve conflicts that might be causing the issue.

Delete Problematic Graphics Settings

Corrupted or incompatible graphics settings can lead to display issues. To reset these settings:

1. Navigate to the game’s settings folder, usually located in C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\Helldivers2\.
2. Locate the graphics_settings.json file.
3. Delete this file.

The game will generate a new default settings file upon the next launch.

Edit the Game’s Config File

Modifying the game’s configuration file can help resolve display issues:

1. Navigate to the game’s installation directory.
2. Locate the config.ini file.
3. Open it with a text editor.
4. Find the line that reads Fullscreen=True and change it to Fullscreen=False.
5. Save the changes and close the file.

This change forces the game to launch in windowed mode, which can bypass black screen issues.

Switch to Borderless Window Mode

Running the game in borderless window mode can resolve fullscreen-related problems:

1. Launch the game.
2. Navigate to the graphics settings menu.
3. Select Display Mode and choose Borderless Window.
4. Apply the changes.

This mode combines the benefits of fullscreen and windowed modes, potentially resolving display issues.

Verify Game Files

Ensuring the integrity of the game’s files can fix issues caused by corruption or missing files:

1. Open your game launcher (e.g., Steam).
2. Navigate to your library and right-click on Helldivers 2.
3. Select Properties.
4. Go to the Local Files tab.
5. Click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.

The launcher will check for and replace any corrupted files.

Reinstall Helldivers 2

If the issue persists, reinstalling the game can help:

1. Uninstall Helldivers 2 from your system.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Download and install the latest version of the game from a trusted source.

This process ensures a fresh installation, free from corrupted files.

Additional Tips

• Check for Game Updates: Developers frequently release patches to address known issues. Ensure your game is up-to-date.
• Update Graphics Drivers: Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers.
• Disable Overlays: Programs like Discord or GeForce Experience have overlays that can interfere with games. Try disabling them.
• Run as Administrator: Right-click on the game’s shortcut and select Run as Administrator to grant necessary permissions.
• Check Antivirus Settings: Some antivirus programs may block game files. Add Helldivers 2 to your antivirus’s exception list.

Simple Steps to Fix the Black Screen

To quickly address the black screen issue:

1. Update your graphics drivers.
2. Verify the integrity of game files through your launcher.
3. Adjust the game’s display settings to windowed or borderless window mode.

These steps resolve the most common causes of the black screen problem.

In Conclusion

Encountering a black screen when starting Helldivers 2 can be disheartening, but with the steps outlined above, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Remember to keep your system and game updated, and don’t hesitate to