Epic Games has introduced a new insect-themed mode to Fortnite, and it’s already creating buzz beyond the game itself—especially among fans of Helldivers 2. The new update features hordes of invading alien bugs, eerily reminiscent of the Terminid threats players face in Helldivers 2, leading to a humorous but pointed exchange on social media between fans and developers alike.
The new Fortnite event, dubbed the “Bug Invasion,” tasks players with defending the island from massive swarms of monstrous insects. Players must team up in co-op missions, use specialized bug-repelling weapons, and defend crucial locations as the insect threat escalates. The event introduces new mechanics like tower defense-style objectives and swarm AI behavior that make the battlefield feel increasingly chaotic and immersive.
While Epic has yet to confirm a direct inspiration, the resemblance to Helldivers 2’s intense co-op bug extermination gameplay hasn’t gone unnoticed. The developers at Arrowhead Game Studios, creators of Helldivers 2, playfully acknowledged the similarities in a tweet: “We have Helldivers at home,” followed by a lighthearted clarification that they were flattered, not offended.
This nod to meme culture only added fuel to the fire as fans of both games began comparing features online. While Helldivers 2 offers a more grounded, gritty, and tactical take on interstellar bug warfare, Fortnite brings its signature cartoony style, over-the-top weapons, and family-friendly chaos to the same basic concept. The crossover of ideas has sparked debates on forums and social media, with some players even calling for a collaboration between the two games.
Despite the comparisons, the Bug Invasion mode is proving popular in its own right. New limited-time quests and cosmetic rewards have players logging in to experience the mode before it disappears. Exclusive bug-themed skins, emotes, and back bling items are part of the reward pool, encouraging participation and squad-based play. The update is also part of a broader seasonal narrative in Fortnite, where a mysterious rift has unleashed strange creatures and anomalies across the map.
Arrowhead, meanwhile, is gearing up for the Xbox release of Helldivers 2 on August 20, bringing their cult-favorite title to a wider audience. Some speculate the timing of Fortnite’s bug event may even be a nod to the competition—or an attempt to capitalize on the renewed popularity of co-op alien shooter content.
Regardless of intent, both communities are enjoying the moment. The playful banter between developers has been praised as a rare example of healthy industry competition and mutual respect, rather than the cutthroat rivalries that sometimes dominate gaming news.
In the end, players win on both sides. Whether you prefer the tactical camaraderie of Helldivers 2 or the chaotic energy of Fortnite, there’s no shortage of bug-squashing action to enjoy this month. And if this is the start of more cross-pollination between studios and styles, the future of co-op PvE might be more fun—and infested—than ever.
