Exterminauts: No Man's Sky Meets Helldivers 2, and It's a Blast

We went hands-on with Exterminauts at Gamescom 2026 and found a surprisingly addictive PvE co-op shooter that blends exploration with chaotic pest control.

Ever wondered what it'd be like to blast alien bugs in a colorful, procedurally generated universe? That's the hook of Exterminauts, a new PvE co-op shooter that had me skeptical at first—but after crushing it at Gamescom 2026, I'm totally on board.

If you've seen the trailers, you'll notice the art style screams No Man's Sky: bright planets, weird flora, and that sense of endless discovery. But the moment you pick up your weapon and start clearing out infestations, it plays like Helldivers 2—think frantic teamwork, friendly fire, and waves of enemies that keep you on your toes.

I'm not usually into this genre, but Exterminauts turned me into a pest-killing pro in no time. The controls are tight, the action is snappy, and there's a satisfying loop of scanning, shooting, and upgrading that keeps you coming back for more.

What really stood out was the blend of exploration and combat. You're not just shooting everything that moves—you're also scanning environments, tracking down nests, and working with your squad to clear objectives. It's that mix of chill vibes and intense firefights that sets it apart.

Of course, no co-op shooter is complete without customization. Exterminauts lets you gear up with different weapons and tools, so you can tailor your loadout to your playstyle. Whether you prefer to snipe from afar or get up close and personal, there's something for everyone.

The session left me impressed, and I'm not alone—the buzz around the game was palpable. If you're into co-op shooters or just love the idea of exploring alien worlds with friends, this one's worth keeping on your radar.

Will you be picking up Exterminauts when it launches? Or are you more of a solo explorer? Let me know in the comments!