Helldivers 2: All Stratagems Guide & How To Use Them
Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Are you ready to dive headfirst into the chaotic, action-packed world of Helldivers 2? If so, you're in for a treat! This game is all about teamwork, strategy, and, of course, deploying some seriously awesome stratagems. Think of stratagems as your secret weapons, your lifelines, and your key to spreading managed democracy across the galaxy. This comprehensive guide will break down all the stratagems available in Helldivers 2, from the classic orbital strikes to the more specialized support weapons and eagle strikes. We'll cover how to use them, when to use them, and which ones are the best for different situations. Let's get started, shall we?
Understanding Stratagems: Your Key to Victory
Alright, before we jump into the nitty-gritty of each stratagem, let's talk about the basics. In Helldivers 2, you don't just run around shooting; you need a smart plan. That's where stratagems come in. These are powerful abilities that you can call down from your Super Destroyer, but you need to know how to use them. These are basically special attacks and support options that you unlock as you level up and gain access to the Warbonds. These stratagems can turn the tide of battle, providing everything from devastating orbital bombardments to strategic defensive emplacements. Each stratagem requires you to input a specific sequence of directional commands on your controller or keyboard, and they also have a cooldown period before they can be used again. So, timing and strategic thinking are key here. Learning the right stratagems and when to use them is the difference between a glorious victory for Super Earth and a swift demise by alien hordes.
- Inputting the Codes: Each stratagem has a unique code that you must enter using your controller's directional buttons. This adds a layer of intensity to the heat of combat – you'll be dodging attacks while frantically trying to remember and input the correct sequence!
 - Cooldowns: After using a stratagem, there is a cooldown period before you can use it again. You need to use them wisely. You can also upgrade your ship modules to reduce the cooldown times or to get more uses of the same stratagem.
 - Variety of Stratagems: You'll have access to a variety of stratagems, each designed for a different purpose: orbital strikes for area damage, support weapons for sustained fire, and defensive structures to hold ground, and much more. Each has its own specific uses and roles.
 
Mastering stratagems is not just about memorizing codes. It's about adapting your strategy to the situation. Need to clear a nest of bugs? Call in an orbital strike. Getting swarmed by heavy units? Deploy a support weapon to even the odds. Knowing the right tool for the job makes all the difference.
Offensive Stratagems: Unleashing Devastation on the Enemy
Now, let's get to the fun part: the offensive stratagems. These are your tools for delivering righteous liberation to the enemy. These are the big guns, the ones that make the enemy go boom! They come in different flavors, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a breakdown of the most essential offensive stratagems:
- Orbital Strikes: These are your bread and butter for area denial and clearing out large groups of enemies. They can do some serious damage, guys! There are different types, from the basic Orbital Gatling to the more powerful Orbital Railgun Strike. The right one is very important depending on the situations. They come with different cooldowns, so know when to use them!
- Orbital Gatling: A rapid-fire barrage that's great for suppressing enemies and clearing out hordes. It's a quick and dirty way to deal with many enemies at once.
 - Orbital 120MM HE Barrage: A sustained barrage over a wide area, perfect for clearing out nests and outposts. It's your go-to when you need to flatten a whole zone.
 - Orbital 380MM HE Barrage: A longer, more powerful barrage that covers an even wider area. Best used on large objectives. This is big boom time!
 - Orbital Railgun Strike: A single, concentrated shot that can take out heavily armored targets. This is your precision weapon for eliminating the big threats. One shot, one kill.
 - Orbital Laser: A continuous laser beam that can cut through anything. Excellent for dealing with high-priority targets. Laser tag!
 - Orbital EMS Strike: This emits an electromagnetic pulse, which can stun enemies and disable their abilities. A great crowd-control tool.
 
 - Eagle Strikes: These are called in from the Eagle, your aerial support. They offer a quick, explosive delivery that can change the tide of battle.
- Eagle Airstrike: A fast bombing run that's great for clearing out a concentrated area. Quick and dirty, just like the Gatling.
 - Eagle Cluster Bomb: This one releases a cluster of smaller bombs over a wider area. Good for dealing with groups of enemies.
 - Eagle 110MM Rocket Pods: A more powerful barrage that's perfect for taking out armored targets. Big boom time, again!
 - Eagle Napalm: Sets the area on fire with napalm. A great way to control the battlefield. Burn, baby, burn!
 
 - Other Offensive Options: There are a few other options that can provide a unique edge in certain scenarios:
- Walking Barrage: A continuous barrage that moves forward, pushing the enemy back. Great for sieges.
 - Quasar Cannon: A powerful energy weapon that can take out armored targets. It has a high damage output.
 
 
Remember, the best offensive stratagem depends on the situation. Knowing what to bring and when to use it will make you a great Helldiver!
Defensive Stratagems: Fortifying Your Position
Not every mission is about all-out assault; sometimes, you need to hold the line, guys. That's where defensive stratagems come in. These options provide cover, slow down the enemy, and give you the space you need to breathe (and reload!). They're essential for protecting objectives and surviving the relentless waves of enemies. Here are some key defensive stratagems:
- Defensive Emplacements: These are your static defense options, providing a fixed point of fire and cover. These are the tools to keep you alive and make sure you do not get overwhelmed.
- Machine Gun Sentry: A classic, reliable sentry that mows down enemies with sustained fire. It's your basic cover fire.
 - Autocannon Sentry: A more powerful sentry that can take out armored targets. Provides heavier firepower.
 - Mortar Sentry: A mortar that fires explosive shells at a distance. Great for area denial and clearing out objectives from a safe distance.
 - Shield Generator Pack: A portable shield generator that protects you and your teammates. A lifesaver in a pinch.
 
 - Support Weapons: These are designed to provide sustained damage and utility on the battlefield. They're what you need to take down armored enemies.
- Machine Gun: A high-capacity weapon that’s good for sustained fire. A classic for a reason.
 - Arc Thrower: This weapon fires arcs of electricity that can damage multiple enemies. Great for crowd control.
 - Railgun: A high-powered weapon that can pierce armor. It's your best friend against the big guys.
 - Spear: A rocket launcher that can lock onto targets. Excellent for taking down tanks and other armored vehicles.
 - EAT-17: A single-use rocket launcher that's great for quick bursts of damage.
 
 
Defensive stratagems are crucial for surviving the toughest missions. Using them strategically can buy you the time and space you need to complete objectives and call in reinforcements. Don't underestimate the power of a well-placed sentry or shield!
Support Stratagems: Helping Your Team
Sometimes, you need more than just firepower. Support stratagems help your team with buffs, debuffs, and other utility effects. These stratagems can make the difference between victory and defeat. They offer the added support your team may need in battle.
- Resupply: Essential for keeping your team stocked up on ammo and support weapons. Make sure everyone gets their gear!
 - Reinforce: Calls down reinforcements to revive fallen teammates. Get your comrades back in the fight! Revive, revive, revive!
 - Orbital Gas Strike: A gas cloud that can damage and disorient enemies. Excellent for area control.
 - Guard Dog: An automated drone that provides support fire. A helpful companion in battle.
 - Guard Dog Rover: Similar to the Guard Dog, but with a different weapon and more mobility.
 - Supply Pack: Provides ammo and grenades for you and your teammates. Keep everyone supplied!
 
Support stratagems can often be the unsung heroes of a mission. They keep your team alive, stocked, and ready to fight. Don't forget to use them!
Advanced Strategies: Mastering the Stratagem Game
Okay, now that you know what each stratagem does, let's talk about how to use them effectively. Here are some advanced strategies to help you become a true Helldivers 2 master. It is time to step up your game!
- Teamwork: Coordinate with your squad to cover each other and combine stratagems for maximum impact. A synchronized barrage can wipe out an entire wave of enemies.
 - Situational Awareness: Pay attention to the battlefield. Identify enemy spawn points, choke points, and objectives. Then, plan your stratagem deployments accordingly.
 - Stratagem Synergies: Experiment with combining stratagems. For example, use a gas strike to control an area, then follow up with an orbital strike for maximum damage.
 - Loadout Optimization: Customize your loadout to match the mission's objectives and the type of enemies you'll be facing. Bring the right tools for the job!
 - Practice Makes Perfect: Practice the stratagem input codes. The faster you can deploy a stratagem, the better.
 - Adaptability: Be prepared to change your strategy on the fly. Sometimes, your initial plan won't work, so you need to adapt to the situation.
 
Mastering stratagems is a journey, not a destination. Keep experimenting, learning, and refining your skills, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a legendary Helldiver.
Conclusion: Spreading Democracy, One Stratagem at a Time
So there you have it, guys. A comprehensive guide to all the stratagems in Helldivers 2. Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to head out there, spread managed democracy, and take on the galaxy's toughest challenges. Remember to work together, adapt your strategy, and have fun! For Super Earth!
Do you want more information about Helldivers 2? Here are some related topics that may interest you:
- Helldivers 2 Beginner's Guide: A comprehensive overview of how to start your Helldivers 2 adventure.
 - Helldivers 2 Tips and Tricks: Get advanced tips and tricks to succeed in Helldivers 2.
 - Helldivers 2 Weapons Guide: A detailed look at the weapons and their various stats and effects.
 - Helldivers 2 Best Armor Guide: Guide to choosing the best armor in Helldivers 2.
 - Helldivers 2 Crossplay Guide: Learn about crossplay features in Helldivers 2.
 
Now go forth, Helldivers, and show those aliens what you're made of! And remember, stay frosty!