Conquering the Illuminate in Helldivers 2: Three Superior Loadouts

The Illuminate, with their advanced technology and overwhelming numbers, present a significant challenge in Helldivers 2. This guide details three effective loadouts to counter their strengths and exploit their weaknesses. Success hinges on a balanced approach, addressing both light and heavy units simultaneously.

Loadout 1: The Laser Cannon – Melting the Illuminate

• Primary: PLAS-1 Scorcher / PLAS-101 Purifier
• Secondary: GP-31 Grenade Pistol
• Grenade: G-13 Incendiary Impact
• Armor Passive: Siege-Ready
• 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/Purifier excels against Overseers and the Voteless. Siege-Ready enhances ammo and reload speed, crucial for sustained combat. The Eagle Strafing Run and GP-31 Grenade Pistol combo efficiently destroys warp ships; first, use the Strafing Run to break shields, then the grenade to finish them. The AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" provides excellent flanking defense. The A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry secures areas, while the Orbital Laser targets Harvesters. The LAS-98 Laser Cannon offers long-range precision against Overseers and Harvesters. On higher difficulties (levels 9-10), the Orbital Laser becomes essential.

Loadout 2: The Lightning Loadout – Shocking and Staggering the Enemy

• 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

This loadout utilizes the ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower for both close and long-range combat. The Arc Thrower's chain lightning stuns Overseers, making them vulnerable. The A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower provides excellent crowd control, particularly 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 threats. Coordination with teammates is key to maximizing this build's effectiveness.

Loadout 3: The Machine Gun Loadout – Shredding the Illuminate

• 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, with its high fire rate and versatility, is the core of this loadout. It effectively handles both light and heavy units, including Harvesters. Peak Physique or Engineering Kit enhances mobility and recoil control. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack allows for quick repositioning. Turret sentries provide area control and objective defense. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser targets heavier enemies. The StA-52 Assault Rifle provides sustained, high-damage fire.

These loadouts offer diverse strategies for combating the Illuminate. Remember to adapt your approach based on the specific situation and your team's composition. Good luck, Helldiver!