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TheHelldivers 2community is one that, for the most part, has got each other’s back. Even when teaming up with strangers during missions or coming across a fellowHelldiver‘s post on the internet, people are really eager to lend a hand and help each other out.
And the community largely owes its thanks to Johan Pilestedt, the CEO of Arrowhead Studios. If you’re wondering why, it’ll all make sense when you read one of his latest interactions on X/Twitter.
Helldivers 2’s Studio Head Johan Pilestedt Doesn’t Tolerate Underhanded Insults
In a recent interview with Kinda Funny Games, Todd Howard, CEO of Bethesda, discussed various topics,including the upcoming update forStarfieldand theFalloutTV show.
However, one of the most memorable moments of the interview was his praise for Larian Studios’Baldur’s Gate 3, and it caught the attention of users across social media. Howard commended Larian’s work on its latest release, stating that it absolutely deserved all of the success it earned through it.
When Pilestedt saw an X/Twitter account repost Howard’s quote, he replied with good intentions, stating that nobody would ever think Larian didn’t deserve its success, insisting that this wasn’t the ‘hot take’ that people were making it out to be.
“That was way too much for me”: Helldivers 2’s Johan Pilestedt Found 1 Part of Baldur’s Gate 3 Too Much, and it’s Hard to Disagree With Him
While people agreed for the most part, one user, in particular, felt it was necessary to bring up that while Larian deserves its success, Howard “does not deserve the job he has.”
Pilestedt, a constant advocate for positivity, swiftly came to Howard’s defense.
Hey, while you may not agree with all the things Bethesda has done. I don’t think it’s right to say someone doesn’t deserve the success they’ve had. There is ofc a big team behind Todd, but his creative leadership still gave us so much.
— Pilestedt (@Pilestedt)July 17, 2025
Responding to the user’s remark about Howard’s abilities, Pilestedt said that, while one may or may not agree with the decisions the studio has made so far with its recent releases, it’s not fair to tear them down by saying their success is unwarranted.
He continues to say that Howard indeed has a huge team behind him, but the man himself is a big reason why the Bethesda games that we do love are the way that they are.
Pilestedt is a Pillar of the Helldivers Community
The Arrowhead CEO’s gesture of support for Howard, despite being head of a studio that could be considered a rival, is a huge show of goodwill that you don’t see very often in the gaming community.
This outward display of positivity and support is very consistent with his character. Anyone in theHelldiverscommunity wouldn’t be surprised at Pilestedt’s words.
![[REDACTED] Review (PS5) – Innovation Caught the Escape Pod Faster Than We Did](https://i2.wp.com/fwmedia.fandomwire.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/05095712/redacted-review-768x432.jpg)
Within theHelldivers 2community, you’ll see that he’sconstantly promoting positive behaviorand discouraging negativity.
“Either way is a Chad move”: Helldivers 2’s Johan Pilestedt Wants a Baldur’s Gate 3 DLC Just Like Us!
Pilestedt is a really unique case in the industry. While some studio heads let PR and marketing take over community engagement, he takes a hands-on approach and personally interacting with players that respond to him.
He often roleplays as a person in his game’s universe, encouraging others in the community to do so, which makes it fun for everyone involved.
What do you think of his defense of Howard? Was it called for, or unnecessary? Let us know in the comments below!
Vibha Hegde
Critic/Gaming Writer
Articles Published :594
Vibha is an avid gamer that has been writing about video games for several years. When they’re not complaining about the lack of a Bloodborne sequel or brushing up on the Yokoverse lore, Vibha is busy watching 3-hour video essays on horror games they’re too scared to play themselves.
