Conquer the Illuminate in Helldivers 2: Three Top-Tier Loadouts
The Illuminate, Helldivers 2's newest enemy faction, present a significant challenge with their advanced technology and overwhelming numbers. This guide details three highly effective loadouts to counter their strengths and exploit their weaknesses. Success hinges on choosing the right combination of weapons, support gear, and stratagems to handle both their light infantry and elite units.
Quick Links
- The Laser Cannon Loadout: Superior Anti-Squid Power
- The Lightning Loadout: Stunning and Staggering Effectiveness
- The Machine Gun Loadout: Versatile Shredding Power
Conquering the Illuminate: Strategy Overview
The Illuminate's diverse units demand a balanced approach. Neglecting either light or heavy units will leave your loadout vulnerable. These strategies prioritize adaptability and firepower to overcome the enemy's technological advantage.
The Laser Cannon Loadout: Superior Anti-Squid Power
| Weapon Type | Weapon Choice |
|---|---|
| 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 |
This loadout leverages the superior damage output of the PLAS-1 Scorcher/Purifier, melting Overseers (including Elevated units) and Voteless with ease. Siege-Ready ensures consistent firepower. The Eagle Strafing Run and GP-31 Grenade Pistol combo swiftly eliminates warp ships, while the AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" provides excellent flank protection. The A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry or Orbital Laser secures objectives and handles heavier threats. The LAS-98 Laser Cannon excels against Harvesters, particularly when combined with a Strafing Run to remove shields. On higher difficulties (9 and 10), the Orbital Laser becomes essential for dealing with multiple Harvesters.
The Lightning Loadout: Stunning and Staggering Effectiveness
| Weapon Type | Weapon Choice |
|---|---|
| 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 build utilizes the area-of-effect control of the ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower, effectively neutralizing both light and heavy Illuminate units. The Arc Thrower's stunning effect renders Overseers virtually immobile, while the A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower provides consistent 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 targets heavier threats like Harvesters, with the Strafing Run used to weaken their shields beforehand. This loadout excels in coordinated gameplay, maximizing the impact of chained lightning attacks.
The Machine Gun Loadout: Versatile Shredding Power
| Weapon Type | Weapon Choice |
|---|---|
| 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 |
This loadout centers around the MG-43 Machine Gun's exceptional versatility. Its high rate of fire shreds infantry and effectively damages Harvesters. The StA-52 Assault Rifle provides sustained firepower. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack enhances mobility, compensating for the Machine Gun's stationary reload. Turret sentries (A/MG-43 or A/G-16) manage crowds or defend objectives. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser handles heavier threats, requiring a Strafing Run to remove Harvester shields before using the Railcannon. Engineering Kit or Peak Physique optimizes the Machine Gun's performance.
These loadouts offer diverse strategies for tackling the Illuminate. Experiment and adapt to find the perfect build for your playstyle and team composition. Remember, coordination is key to success against this formidable foe!
