Jumping into the frenetic, action-packed world of Helldivers 2 can feel both thrilling and daunting. With chaotic combat, team-based objectives, and unforgiving enemies, mastering the game requires strategy and an understanding of its unique mechanics. This guide is packed with tips and tricks to help new players survive the challenges of Helldivers 2 and emerge victorious. Whether you’re a seasoned online gamer or a school student exploring this game for the first time, these useful strategies will give you a head start.
What is Helldivers 2?
Helldivers 2 is a cooperative twin-stick shooter developed by Arrowhead Game Studios. It’s the highly anticipated sequel to the original, featuring intense multiplayer action and an expanded universe of hostile alien environments. Players take on missions as part of the Helldivers, soldiers tasked with defending “Super Earth” against alien threats. Unlike many shooters, Helldivers 2 rewards coordination and strategy over solo heroics, making it ideal for gamers who love team-based gameplay.
Now that you know the basics, here’s how you can excel as a new recruit in Helldivers 2.
Essential Tips to Get Started
1. Master the Basics of Combat
Understanding Helldivers 2’s combat system is critical. Unlike traditional shooters, this game adds layers of complexity, including friendly fire and limited ammunition.
- Friendly Fire is Always On: Be mindful of your shots. Every bullet or explosion can harm your teammates, so aim carefully during high-intensity battles.
- Ammunition Matters: Reload sparingly and prioritize accuracy. Carry backup ammo packs for yourself and your team.
- Watch Your Surroundings: Enemies can attack from all directions. Constantly check your minimap and be alert to stay alive.
2. Choose Your Loadout Wisely
Your equipment and weaponry greatly influence your gameplay, so it’s essential to customize your loadout based on the mission objectives.
- Weapons: Start with versatile firearms like the AR-19 Liberator assault rifle for mid-range combat. Experiment with different guns to find one that suits your playstyle.
- Stratagems: These are deployable tools like turrets, supplies, or airstrikes. Stratagems can turn the tide of battle, so include a mix of offensive (e.g., an airstrike) and defensive (e.g., ammo resupply) options.
- Perks: Don’t neglect perks! For new players, perks like extra ammo or faster movement can provide significant advantages.
3. Understand Team Dynamics
Helldivers 2 is not a solo game—you need your squad.
- Communicate: Use voice chat to coordinate actions like calling in reinforcements or planning an attack. Clear communication reduces chaos.
- Stick Together: Moving as a unit allows you to cover more ground and support one another during enemy ambushes. Lone wolves don’t last long in this game.
- Share Responsibilities: Assign roles within your team. For instance, one player can focus on reviving teammates while another provides cover fire.
4. Learn How Missions Work
Missions in Helldivers 2 vary greatly, from defending objectives to sabotaging enemy installations.
- Prepare for Diversity: Read the mission briefing carefully to adapt your strategy beforehand. For example, stealth might be preferable in certain missions, while others require heavy firepower.
- Complete Secondary Objectives: Secondary objectives often offer valuable rewards like research points or gear upgrades. Always keep an eye on them.
- Extract Quickly: Extractions are chaotic and timed. Head to the evac zone as soon as the extraction beacon is placed, and defend the area vigorously until the drop ship arrives.
5. Adapt to Enemy Types
Helldivers 2 pits you against a variety of factions, each with unique strengths.
- Bugs (Bio-Enemies): These are fast, swarm enemies. Flame-based weapons and area-of-effect (AOE) attacks are most effective for exterminating bugs.
- Cyborgs (Mechanized Troops): Cyborgs rely on heavy armor and long-range attacks. Use high-damage weapons, such as railguns, to pierce their defenses.
- Illuminates (Advanced Alien Race): They excel in using technology to disorient and overwhelm. EMP grenades are key to disrupting their shields and tech abilities.
6. Manage Stratagems Effectively
Using stratagems effectively can make all the difference in tight situations.
- Placement is Key: Place deployable turrets in choke points rather than open areas for maximum impact.
- Timing Matters: Don’t spam reinforcements or airstrikes randomly. Wait until enemies are concentrated to maximize damage or strategic advantage.
- Be Patient: Calling in stratagems can take precious seconds. Plan ahead and stay protected while waiting for them to arrive.
Advanced Strategies for Long-Term Success
7. Invest in Research Points
Throughout the game, you’ll earn research points to upgrade weapons, equipment, and stratagems. Prioritize upgrades that benefit your team overall, such as faster reload speeds or increased turret durability. These investments will pay off in tougher missions.
8. Learn to Dodge and Revive
Dodging and reviving are critical skills in Helldivers 2.
- Dodge Constantly: Learn when to roll to avoid incoming fire or enemy attacks. Each dodge move can save your life in intense situations.
- Revive Smartly: If a teammate is down, assess the situation before reviving them. Rushing to help out in the middle of a firefight could put both of you in danger.
9. Make the Most of Difficulty Levels
Helldivers 2 offers various difficulty levels. Beginners should stick to lower-tier missions to hone their skills before progressing to harder challenges. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, gradually start taking on higher-level missions for better rewards and more intense gameplay.
10. Build a Squad You Can Rely On
Playing with the same group of players can lead to better synergy over time. Identify each teammate’s strengths and work together to develop strategies that suit your playstyles. If you’re playing solo, use the in-game matchmaking feature to find allies.
Thrive in the World of Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 is not just about defeating hordes of enemies; it’s about coordination, strategy, and adapting to challenges. By mastering the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll not only survive but thrive in the chaotic, action-packed universe.
Gear up, form your squad, and prepare to defend Super Earth. Now it’s time to suit up and make your mark in Helldivers 2. Happy gaming!
Final Thoughts
Helldivers 2 challenges players to sharpen their skills, innovate their tactics, and work together seamlessly to protect Super Earth. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a fresh recruit, the key to success lies in preparation, teamwork, and adaptability. Remember, every mission you undertake contributes to the greater good, and every enemy defeated brings humanity one step closer to safety.
Now, take these strategies to heart, rally your squad, and charge boldly into the fight. Your actions will determine the fate of Super Earth—good luck, Helldiver.