Helldivers 2: Ultimate Guide To All Stratagems

Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Ready to dive headfirst into the chaotic beauty of Helldivers 2? One of the coolest aspects of this game, besides the sheer thrill of blasting bugs and bots, is the incredible variety of stratagems you can call in. Think of these as your ultimate superhero tools, the things that can turn the tide of battle when you're facing overwhelming odds. This guide is your one-stop shop for everything stratagem-related, so grab your weapons, and let's get started. We'll break down each stratagem, explain what it does, and give you some pro tips on how to use them effectively. Get ready to dominate the battlefield and spread democracy like never before!

Decoding the Stratagem System

Alright, so how do these stratagems actually work? Let's break down the basics, shall we? You can't just waltz into a mission and start calling in orbital strikes on a whim, unfortunately. First, you'll need to unlock stratagems by spending Requisition Slips, the currency you earn by completing missions and finding them scattered around the maps. Think of it as upgrading your arsenal. Each stratagem has a specific code you need to input using the directional buttons on your controller or the corresponding keys on your keyboard. It's like a mini-game under pressure – input the wrong sequence, and you get nothing. Get it right, and boom – reinforcements, firepower, or a much-needed escape are on their way. Each stratagem also has a cooldown timer, so you can't spam them. This adds a strategic layer to the game; you'll have to consider the right moment to use each stratagem. Finally, don't forget the Supply Pack, your backpack will give you extra stratagem uses. It's a lifesaver in tough situations. It's worth noting that the effectiveness of a stratagem can depend on factors like your squad's teamwork. Communication is key, especially if you want to avoid friendly fire! So, before you start calling in those orbital strikes, make sure your teammates know where you are. Otherwise, you might find yourself on the receiving end of your own firepower. Now, let's look at the different categories of stratagems, and explore what each of them offers.

Types of Stratagems: A Brief Overview

Stratagems in Helldivers 2 are split into several categories, each playing a critical role on the battlefield. Understanding these categories is essential for building a well-rounded loadout and adapting to different mission types and enemy encounters. Let's briefly go over the main types:

• Offensive: These are your damage dealers. Think of them as your primary tools for eliminating enemies. This category includes everything from orbital strikes to powerful Eagle strikes, and even orbital lasers. The strength of these stratagems lies in their raw firepower, capable of clearing out hordes of enemies or taking down heavily armored foes.
• Defensive: This is where you bring in the reinforcements, or create defensive positions. These are invaluable for controlling the battlefield and buying your team time to complete objectives. These include sentry guns and mines, which are essential for creating chokepoints and providing cover.
• Support: These are the unsung heroes of the battlefield. Support stratagems are designed to enhance your team's abilities, or provide vital resources. Support includes supply drops and healing options.
• Supply: You will get more ammunition to resupply your teammates. These help to stay in the fight longer.

Knowing how to use each type of stratagem effectively is crucial for success in Helldivers 2. Understanding when to deploy an orbital strike, where to position a sentry gun, or when to call in a resupply will significantly increase your chances of surviving the chaos.

Dive Deep: All Stratagems Explained

Now, for the fun part! Let's get into the nitty-gritty and explore each stratagem. We'll go through the various stratagems in Helldivers 2, breaking them down into categories like offensive, defensive, and support. We'll also provide tips on how to use each one effectively, and share some of our favorite combinations.

Offensive Stratagems: Unleashing the Fury

Let's start with the boom, the bang, the pure, unadulterated firepower! Offensive stratagems are your go-to tools for clearing out enemies and completing objectives. Here's a rundown of some of the most effective ones:

• Orbital Precision Strike: This is the bread and butter of your offensive arsenal. A precise, single-target strike that's perfect for taking out high-value targets. Great for those pesky Charger bugs or heavily armored Automaton units.
• Orbital Railgun Strike: An upgraded version of the Precision Strike, this one packs an even bigger punch. It's got a longer cooldown, but it's well worth the wait. This stratagem will obliterate armored units. Remember to factor in the delay – aim ahead of your target! Pro Tip: Use it when you are facing a group of chargers or tanks.
• 120MM/380MM Orbital Barrage: Now we're talking! These call in a massive barrage of artillery fire over a wide area. Effective at clearing out hordes, but be careful of friendly fire. The 380mm version is especially chaotic, so use it with caution. Pro Tip: Use it when you are in a location where the enemies are coming from multiple locations.
• Eagle Strafing Run: An Eagle aircraft streaks across the battlefield, unleashing a barrage of fire along a straight line. Great for clearing out groups of enemies or softening up a fortified position. The Eagle is a versatile tool. Pro Tip: Use it when you need to clear an area of enemies.
• Eagle Airstrike: A short-range strike that's ideal for quickly eliminating a group of enemies. It's quick and effective, and perfect for those 'oh snap' moments. Pro Tip: A fast and efficient way to deal with threats.
• Eagle Cluster Bomb: A more destructive version of the airstrike, this one drops multiple bombs over a wider area. It's a great choice for taking out bug nests or bot factories. Just be mindful of the blast radius!
• Eagle Napalm Strike: Unleashes a wave of fire. This is a great area-denial tool, but use it carefully as it can also damage you and your team.
• Orbital Gatling Barrage: A rapid-fire barrage that can tear through hordes of enemies. It's a great choice for clearing out a swarm of bugs.
• Orbital Laser: This one is a continuous beam of energy that can be used to carve through enemies and structures. It's best used against armored targets or structures, but be aware of its long cooldown time.

Defensive Stratagems: Fortifying Your Position

Sometimes, you don't want to blow things up; you want to survive. These stratagems are your tools for creating defensive positions, controlling the battlefield, and buying your team some much-needed time. Let's check them out:

• Guard Dog Rover: A personal drone that follows you around and attacks nearby enemies. It's great for providing additional firepower and for keeping you safe from flanking enemies. It's also great for solo missions.
• Autocannon Sentry: A stationary turret that automatically fires at nearby enemies. It's excellent for defending objectives or creating choke points.
• Mortar Sentry: A longer-range sentry that fires explosive shells at enemies. It's perfect for taking out enemies from a distance, but it can also be a danger to you if you are not careful.
• EMS Mortar Sentry: This sentry emits an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) that stuns nearby enemies, making them vulnerable to attack. It's great for crowd control and can buy you time to regroup.
• Tesla Tower: This powerful tower emits arcs of electricity that can fry any enemy that gets too close. It's a great defensive option, but it can also be a danger to you and your teammates if you aren't careful.
• Shield Generator Pack: A personal shield that protects you from incoming fire. It's a great tool for surviving in a firefight, but it does have a limited duration.
• Anti-Personnel Mines: These mines can be deployed to create a minefield. They're great for controlling the battlefield and for taking out enemies that get too close. Be careful not to step on your own mines!
• EM5C Mortar Sentry: Stuns enemies in a wide area. Useful to stop hordes.

Support Stratagems: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

These stratagems are all about helping your squad. Whether it's providing ammo, healing your wounds, or boosting your abilities, these are the tools that will make you a true team player.

• Resupply: Need more ammo, grenades, or stims? Call in a resupply pod. It's essential for staying in the fight. Pro Tip: Make sure to drop it in a safe location so you can restock when needed.
• Orbital Gas Strike: Creates a cloud of toxic gas, this is perfect for area denial. Use it to block off enemy paths or to cover your retreat.
• Reinforce: Brings fallen teammates back into the fight. Critical for keeping your squad alive during intense battles.

Mastering the Stratagems: Tips and Tricks

Alright, you've got the basics down, now let's level up your gameplay with some pro tips! Here's how to maximize your stratagem effectiveness:

• Know Your Codes: Sounds simple, but it's crucial! Practice inputting the codes for your favorite stratagems so you can call them in quickly under pressure. The faster you can deploy your stratagems, the better your chances of survival.
• Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Communicate with your squad. Coordinate your stratagem usage to maximize their impact and minimize friendly fire. Share your observations and warn your teammates of incoming strikes.
• Consider Your Loadout: Customize your stratagem loadout based on the mission type and the enemies you'll be facing. Different missions will require different strategies, and a diverse loadout will make you more adaptable.
• Learn the Maps: Knowing the layout of the maps will allow you to position your sentries and call in strikes more effectively. Pay attention to choke points, cover, and areas that provide tactical advantages.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you play, the better you'll become at using stratagems. Experiment with different combinations and learn to adapt to the ever-changing chaos of battle.
• Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of the environment. High ground can give you an advantage, while open areas can leave you vulnerable. Use cover whenever possible, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Understand Enemy Types: Different enemies have different weaknesses. Use the right stratagem for the job. For example, use orbital strikes on armored targets, and swarm-clearing weapons on hordes.

Stratagem Combos and Synergies

Sometimes, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Experimenting with different stratagem combinations can lead to amazing results. Here are some examples to get you started:

• The 'Big Bang' Combo: Combine an Orbital Railgun Strike to take out a heavily armored target with an Eagle Airstrike to clear out any surrounding enemies.
• The 'Area Denial' Duo: Use a Napalm Eagle Strike to create a burning zone, then follow up with an EMS Mortar Sentry to stun any enemies that try to cross it.
• The 'Support Squad': Equip a Shield Generator Pack for survivability, and a Resupply to keep the team in the fight. This will increase your survivability.

Conclusion: Spread Democracy!

There you have it, folks! Your complete guide to stratagems in Helldivers 2. With practice, coordination, and a little bit of luck, you'll be able to master these powerful tools and spread democracy across the galaxy. Remember, Helldiving is all about teamwork and having fun. So, go out there, fight for Super Earth, and show those bugs and bots what freedom is all about! Godspeed, Helldivers, and may liberty reign supreme! Keep innovating, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep having fun. Now, go forth and liberate those planets!