Illuminate: Helldivers 2 Loadout Guide

Conquering the Illuminate in Helldivers 2: Optimal Loadouts & Strategies

The Illuminate, with their advanced technology and overwhelming numbers, pose a significant threat in Helldivers 2. This guide details three effective loadouts to counter their strengths and exploit their weaknesses. Success hinges on balancing weaponry to handle both light and heavy units.

I. Quick Links

• Laser Cannon Loadout
• Lightning Loadout
• Machine Gun Loadout

Effective Combat Strategies Against the Illuminate

To effectively combat the Illuminate, you need a well-rounded approach, combining weapons, support gear, and stratagems to address both their light infantry and heavily armored units. Neglecting either will render your loadout ineffective.

II. The Laser Cannon Loadout: Melting the Illuminate

The PLAS-1 Scorcher and PLAS-101 Purifier excel at eliminating Overseers, including Elevated units, and are equally effective against the Voteless. Siege-Ready enhances ammunition and reload speed. The Eagle Strafing Run, coupled with the GP-31 Grenade Pistol, efficiently destroys warp ships. The AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" provides excellent flank protection. 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 its long range. On higher difficulties (levels 9-10), the Orbital Laser becomes crucial for handling multiple Harvesters.

III. The Lightning Loadout: Shocking (& Staggering) the Illuminate

The ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower effectively handle both melee and ranged units. The Arc Thrower's chaining lightning stuns Overseers, especially Elevated ones. It also damages unshielded Harvesters. The A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower provides excellent crowd control, particularly against flying Overseers. The Eagle Strafing Run and Grenade Pistol remain essential for warp ship destruction. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser targets heavier units; the Orbital Laser is preferred for multiple Harvesters. This loadout excels in coordinated team play.

IV. The Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate

The MG-43 Machine Gun is exceptionally versatile, effectively shredding light and medium units, including Harvesters. The Engineering Kit or Peak Physique passive enhances its effectiveness. The high fire rate helps deplete shields, reducing reliance on the Eagle Strafing Run for warp ship destruction. Turret sentries handle crowd control and objective defense. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack aids mobility. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser targets heavier units. The StA-52 Assault Rifle provides sustained fire.

These loadouts provide a strong foundation for tackling the Illuminate. Remember to adapt your strategy based on the specific mission and your team's composition.