Conquer the Illuminate in Helldivers 2 with these Optimized Loadouts!
The Illuminate, with their advanced tech and overwhelming numbers, pose a significant challenge in Helldivers 2. Success hinges on strategically chosen loadouts that exploit their weaknesses. This guide details three top-tier loadouts designed for maximum effectiveness against this formidable foe.
Quick Links:
- Laser Cannon Loadout: Melting the Illuminate
- Lightning Loadout: Stunning the Illuminate
- Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate
The Laser Cannon Loadout: Superior Anti-Squid Power
| Weapon | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary: | PLAS-1 Scorcher / PLAS-101 Purifier (Exceptional damage against Overseers and Voteless) |
| Secondary: | GP-31 Grenade Pistol |
| Grenade: | G-13 Incendiary Impact |
| Armor Passive: | Siege-Ready (Increased ammo and faster reloads) |
| Stratagems: | LAS-98 Laser Cannon (Support), AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog", Eagle Strafing Run, A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry/Orbital Laser |
The PLAS-1 Scorcher and PLAS-101 Purifier excel at eliminating Overseers, including airborne units. Siege-Ready ensures consistent firepower. The Eagle Strafing Run and GP-31 Grenade Pistol combo efficiently destroys warp ships: the Strafing Run strips shields, and the grenade finishes them off. The AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" provides effective flanking defense. The A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry secures areas, while the Orbital Laser targets Harvesters. The LAS-98 Laser Cannon melts Overseers and Harvesters with devastating efficiency, especially when targeting weak points after a Strafing Run. On higher difficulties (9 or 10), the Orbital Laser becomes essential for handling multiple Harvesters.
The Lightning Loadout: Crowd Control and Staggering Power
| Weapon | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary: | ARC-12 Blitzer |
| Secondary: | GP-31 Grenade Pistol |
| Grenade: | G-13 Incendiary Impact |
| Armor Passive: | Electrical Conduit / Med-Kit |
| Stratagems: | ARC-3 Arc Thrower (Support), Orbital Railcannon Strike/Orbital Laser, Eagle Strafing Run, A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower |
The ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower effectively handle both melee and ranged threats. The Arc Thrower's chaining lightning stuns Overseers, particularly effective against airborne units. It also damages Harvesters, though it requires multiple hits. The A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower provides excellent crowd control, especially against flying Overseers. The Eagle Strafing Run and Grenade Pistol remain crucial for warp ship destruction. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser handles heavier units; the Railcannon is best against unshielded targets, while the Laser excels against multiple Harvesters (after a Strafing Run). This loadout's coordinated lightning attacks provide exceptional area denial.
The Machine Gun Loadout: Versatile and Devastating Firepower
| Weapon | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary: | StA-52 Assault Rifle |
| Secondary: | GP-31 Grenade Pistol / CQC-19 Stun Lance |
| Grenade: | G-13 Incendiary Impact |
| Armor Passive: | Peak Physique / Engineering Kit |
| Stratagems: | MG-43 Machine Gun (Support), LIFT-850 Jump Pack, Orbital Railcannon Strike/Orbital Laser, A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry/A/G-16 Gatling Sentry |
The MG-43 Machine Gun is a highly versatile support weapon, shredding light and medium units, including Harvesters. Its high fire rate efficiently depletes shields, making the Eagle Strafing Run less critical for warp ship destruction. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack allows for quick repositioning during reloads. The StA-52 Assault Rifle provides sustained, high-damage fire. Choose either turret sentry for crowd control or objective defense. An Orbital stratagem (Laser or Railcannon) remains beneficial for handling heavier units. The Orbital Laser is particularly effective against multiple Harvesters.
These loadouts offer diverse strategies for tackling the Illuminate threat. Experiment and adapt to find the perfect fit for your playstyle. Remember, coordination with teammates significantly enhances effectiveness.
