Why does Helldivers 2 have such high CPU requirements?

Helldivers 2 simulates large numbers of enemies (Terminids and Automatons) with independent AI, which is highly CPU-intensive. The minimum spec of an i7-4790K is notably higher than many games of similar visual fidelity. Running the game on a quad-core below this threshold results in CPU bottlenecking, causing stutters especially during large firefights with many simultaneous enemies.

Does Helldivers 2 support DLSS or FSR?

Yes, Helldivers 2 added DLSS 2 and FSR 2 support post-launch. For mid-range GPUs like the GTX 1660 Super or RX 5700, enabling FSR Quality mode provides a meaningful FPS boost with minimal image quality loss, making 60 FPS at 1080p achievable. DLSS Performance mode on RTX 3070+ can push the game to 1440p at high frame rates.

Can I Run Helldivers 2 on RTX 3060?

Helldivers 2 FPS Benchmark and Performance Analysis

GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060Game: Helldivers 2Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Yes, NVIDIA RTX 3060 can run Helldivers 2. Expect roughly 51 FPS at 1080p high; settings tuning will be important. Not sure whether NVIDIA RTX 3060 can keep up with Helldivers 2? Below you'll find our performance projection at 1080p high along with 1440p scaling data.

Helldivers 2 FPS Benchmarks on RTX 3060

Resolution	Settings Preset	Avg FPS	1% Low FPS	Verdict
1080p	Competitive (Low)	64 FPS	43 FPS	Playable
1080p	High	51 FPS	34 FPS	Playable
1440p	High	38 FPS	24 FPS	Low
1440p	Ultra	29 FPS	18 FPS	Low
4K	High	22 FPS	15 FPS	Low

Benchmarks are estimated by our performance engine. Actual results may vary.

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Best Settings for Helldivers 2 on RTX 3060

51+FPS1080p Competitive

Display Mode: Fullscreen
Resolution: 1920×1080
V-Sync: Disabled
Texture Quality: Medium
Shadow Quality: Low
Anti-Aliasing: FXAA
Effects Quality: Low
Post-Processing: Low
Ambient Occlusion: Disabled

Performance Analysis

NVIDIA RTX 3060 is estimated around 51 FPS at 1080p high in Helldivers 2. At 1440p, that typically translates to around 38 FPS with similar quality targets. This places the card in the mid tier for this title, with a playable experience profile. NVIDIA RTX 3060 can run Helldivers 2 reliably, but smart setting choices matter for consistency.

Helldivers 2 is a cooperative third-person shooter with large outdoor environments, particle-heavy explosions, and dense enemy swarms. The CPU minimum is relatively high (i7-4790K class) due to enemy AI simulation. Recommended specs target 60 FPS at 1080p High with an RTX 2060 or RX 6600 XT.

NVIDIA RTX 3060 supports DLSS 3 with Frame Generation in compatible titles. In games like Helldivers 2 that support it, Frame Generation can push perceived frame rates well beyond the base estimate above — particularly useful at 1440p where the GPU is more heavily loaded.

Use low/competitive settings and performance upscaling to keep gameplay smooth.
Keep ray tracing disabled for stable FPS.
Disable ray tracing and lower effects density

Bottom line: Helldivers 2 on NVIDIA RTX 3060 is playable, and optimization has a measurable impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Helldivers 2 have such high CPU requirements?: Helldivers 2 simulates large numbers of enemies (Terminids and Automatons) with independent AI, which is highly CPU-intensive. The minimum spec of an i7-4790K is notably higher than many games of similar visual fidelity. Running the game on a quad-core below this threshold results in CPU bottlenecking, causing stutters especially during large firefights with many simultaneous enemies.
Does Helldivers 2 support DLSS or FSR?: Yes, Helldivers 2 added DLSS 2 and FSR 2 support post-launch. For mid-range GPUs like the GTX 1660 Super or RX 5700, enabling FSR Quality mode provides a meaningful FPS boost with minimal image quality loss, making 60 FPS at 1080p achievable. DLSS Performance mode on RTX 3070+ can push the game to 1440p at high frame rates.