Gravity Restored: Ending the Strider Ascent

Helldivers 2 Patch 5.0.0, while delivering major balance and QoL changes, also targeted a specific and highly visible physics bug related to the largest Automaton unit: the Factory Strider. Previously, upon destruction, the massive bipedal tank would frequently glitch out, resulting in its model being launched high into the air, sometimes even disappearing completely. The patch notes confirm a fix that ensures the Factory Strider’s corpse now correctly collapses and remains on the ground upon death.

Key factual elements of the technical fix:

  • Target Unit: The Factory Strider, the colossal, heavily armored Automaton assault unit that deploys smaller bots.
  • The Problem: The physics calculation upon the destruction of the Strider’s central core or main legs often resulted in a massive, unintended momentum transfer. This caused the model to fly erratically, leading to visual inconsistency and occasional client-side issues for players standing too close.
  • The Fix: The developers adjusted the death physics and collision properties of the Strider model. This stabilizes the corpse upon defeat, forcing it to correctly ragdoll or collapse, eliminating the “launching” effect.
  • Goal: Immersion and Reliability: The primary intent was to restore game immersion and visual fidelity. Seeing a massive enemy tank fly away broke the serious tone of the battle and was a constant reminder of physics inconsistencies.

This technical fix ensures that the defeat of a colossal enemy is met with a satisfying, grounded collapse.

Community Reaction: Saying Goodbye to a Funny Glitch

The community reaction is mixed, encompassing both appreciation for the technical fix and a nostalgic farewell to a hilarious, chaotic glitch.

  • Relief from Visual Chaos: Most players welcome the fix, especially those who prioritize immersion. They appreciate that the death of a major threat now feels appropriately weighty and final, rather than ending in a chaotic, physics-defying launch.
  • Nostalgia for the “Sky Strider”: A significant portion of the community expresses a fondness for the bug, which became a running joke and popular meme—the “Factory Strider Ascending to Heaven.” They mourn the loss of the bizarre, comedic element the glitch provided.
  • Improved Hitbox Consistency: High-level players are glad the corpse stays put. The erratic movement of the flying corpse could sometimes cause unexpected collision issues or obscure targets for a few moments, and the fix ensures a cleaner post-kill environment.

Strategic Impact: Cleaner Post-Kill Environment

While the fix does not alter the method of destroying the Strider, it subtly improves the post-kill environment and team safety.

Firstly, the fix provides a clearer battlefield. The collapse of the Strider creates a solid, predictable piece of cover (or an obstacle) rather than a temporary hazard of a massive flying model, allowing teams to immediately reposition.

Secondly, it is a small boost to player safety. Although rare, the flying Strider occasionally landed or passed close enough to inflict damage or unexpectedly block incoming fire. Removing this variable makes the area safer immediately after the kill.

Patch 5.0.0’s fix for the Factory Strider’s physics glitch is a high-impact technical refinement. By making the destruction of this colossal threat visually consistent and grounded, the developers have successfully improved immersion and overall stability in Automaton operations.