Behaviour Interactive is preparing to launch Exterminauts, a cooperative PvE shooter that has drawn comparisons to the popular Helldivers 2 due to shared gameplay elements such as squad-based combat, powerful weaponry, and battling alien creatures. However, the development team emphasizes that Exterminauts will carve out its own niche.
Creative director Vincent Regimbart explained in an interview at Gamescom that while similarities exist, Exterminauts' core theme sets it apart. "Our game is not war: It's work," Regimbart stated. "It's a workplace that fights back. So there's a thematic difference that we don't want it kind of, to be too heavy on the player--to make it feel like everything is ominous and dire. You're just here to do your 9-5 and get back out." This approach aims to create a less grim atmosphere than other titles in the genre.
Beyond its thematic distinctions, the developers also see opportunities to innovate on systems present in games like Helldivers 2, particularly concerning player progression. Regimbart noted that Exterminauts will feature a robust upgrade system for weapons, including passive enhancements and diverse build paths. "There are mods to your weapons, there are passives, there are a lot of upgrades, and there are a lot of different paths that you can take with a particular build. So we're putting a lot more emphasis on that," he said, suggesting a deeper customization experience for players.
Exterminauts is slated for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2027.