Helldivers 2 now lets you hug SEAF troopers — just not mid-fight with a Crusher nearby

The Devoid of Liberty update for Helldivers 2 not only introduces new enemies but also boosts allies — the SEAF troopers. These NPC soldiers now fight alongside players and even accept hugs, which positively affects squad morale.

SEAF troopers first appeared in the Heart of Democracy update when the Illuminate invaded Super Earth. They stood little chance against hordes of bugs, bots, and aliens but kept fighting with everything they had. The new patch substantially upgrades them: they arrive on dropships, provide medical support with stims, and can boost morale when saluted, handshaken, or hugged.

A PC Gamer journalist tested the new mechanic in action. The video shows a SEAF trooper pausing mid-shot to return a hug. However, the clip's end demonstrates why doing this in the heat of combat is unwise — if a Crusher enemy is nearby, the consequences can be fatal for both.

In the new update, SEAF have become a more formidable force: they wield machine guns, appear in greater numbers, and periodically drop in on shuttles to assist. This is especially important given the new foes: Crushers, which are tough to take down and oddly hard to hear approaching, and fast-moving Wretches that can close the distance quickly.

Developers note a tough fight lies ahead but encourage players to take a moment to show appreciation for their SEAF contingent, even if it's just a virtual hug.