| Warframe | Helldivers 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price to start | Free | One-off purchase |
| Session feel | Build, farm, improve | Drop in, cause chaos, extract |
| Premium currency | Platinum, tradeable between players | Super Credits, found in missions |
| Solo play | Very good | Possible, much better in a group |
| Onboarding | Overwhelming at first | Short and simple |
| Feel | 8.5 | 9.5 |
| Depth | 9.5 | 8.5 |
| Price honesty | 8 | 9.5 |
| Time respect | 7.5 | 9 |
| Access | 8 | 7.5 |
| Respawn score | 84 | 89 |
How they play
Warframe is about building and collecting: dozens of frames, hundreds of weapons, and a movement system that becomes second nature. Helldivers 2 is about the moment: four friends, a strict objective, friendly fire and orbital strikes that don't always land where you meant.
Value for what you spend
Warframe costs nothing, and its tradeable Platinum means patient players can get everything without paying. Helldivers 2 costs a one-off price, and after that its Warbonds never expire, while Super Credits turn up during missions. Both are among the most generous shops on our board.
Who each suits
If you want one game to sink hundreds of hours into, alone or with a clan, choose Warframe. If you have a regular group and want an evening of laughter and near-misses, choose Helldivers 2.
Our pick
Helldivers 2 for groups, Warframe for long-term solo and clan players. Many people end up playing both.