Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Stratagem Guide

Nov 2, 2025 by Admin 43 views

Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Ready to dive headfirst into the glorious fight for Super Earth? You've picked a fantastic game, a co-op shooter that's all about teamwork, explosions, and, of course, stratagems. These are your bread and butter, the tools that let you call in devastating airstrikes, deploy automated sentries, and generally bring the fight to the Terminids and Automatons. This guide is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about stratagems in Helldivers 2. We're talking about how to use them, which ones to choose, and how to master the all-important input codes. So, buckle up, grab your favorite weapon, and let's get started. Remember, spreading managed democracy is a tough job, but someone's gotta do it. And with the right stratagems, that someone can be you!

Understanding Stratagems: Your Arsenal of Democracy

Alright, so what exactly are stratagems? Think of them as your special abilities, your ace in the hole, the things that separate a rookie Helldiver from a seasoned veteran. In Helldivers 2, stratagems are powerful, strategic assets that you deploy during missions to turn the tide of battle. They can be offensive, defensive, or supportive, and choosing the right ones for the job is absolutely critical for success. The whole idea here is to strategically drop them in at the perfect moment. To use a stratagem, you need to first equip it in your loadout before a mission. Before the mission starts, you will have the chance to select four stratagems. During a mission, you then activate a stratagem by entering a specific input code using your controller's directional buttons. This is where things get interesting, and where the skill gap in the game becomes apparent. Timing is critical, as you need to input the code under pressure. After inputting the correct code, you'll need to wait for the stratagem to be deployed. This deployment can take a few seconds, during which time you will be vulnerable to enemy attacks, so choose your moments wisely. This whole process is designed to bring you to the fight with managed democracy.

Now, let's talk about the different types of stratagems. You've got your offensive stratagems like orbital strikes and Eagle strikes, which are perfect for clearing out hordes of enemies or taking down heavily armored targets. Then there are defensive stratagems, like sentry guns and mines, which can help you control the battlefield and hold your ground. Lastly, you have your support stratagems, which can provide things like ammo resupply, health boosts, or even call in vehicles. Every type of stratagem serves a unique purpose, and the best loadouts are often the ones that can combine the stratagems of different types to be the most effective. Experimentation is key, so don't be afraid to try out different combinations to see what works best for you and your squad.

The Importance of Input Codes and Timing

As mentioned earlier, the key to deploying a stratagem is the input code. These are specific combinations of directional button presses on your controller. You will get used to the motions as you play more. Memorizing these codes and executing them quickly under pressure is an essential skill for any Helldiver. The game has a system that rewards speed and accuracy. Many players will fumble the inputs, especially in the heat of battle, which can lead to mistakes and even friendly fire incidents. To get better at inputting codes, practice makes perfect. Try to get a feel for the rhythm and flow of each code, and make sure that you practice your inputs in a safe area so you do not hurt your team. Also, be mindful of your surroundings when inputting a code. Make sure that you are in a relatively safe location because as mentioned before, you are vulnerable while entering a code. This adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the game.

Mastering stratagem input is a core element of gameplay, and it's what separates the casual players from the true veterans. It's a skill that requires both muscle memory and tactical awareness. While in the midst of a firefight, a well-timed orbital strike can turn the tide of battle. Therefore, spending time practicing and perfecting these inputs is time well spent, and the benefits will be felt on the battlefield. Ultimately, understanding and efficiently using stratagems is the key to mastering Helldivers 2. They allow you to adapt to various combat situations, support your team, and overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

Offensive Stratagems: Unleashing Firepower

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of the offensive stratagems. These are the tools that let you blow stuff up, and trust me, in Helldivers 2, there's a whole lot of stuff to blow up! These are your primary damage dealers, the ones you'll rely on to eliminate enemy threats and clear objectives. The most popular one is the Orbital Strike. This calls in a barrage of fire from your ship's orbital cannons. The best way to use this is to target high-value targets like nests and automaton factories, or to create a defensive perimeter by striking around your current location. Next is the Eagle Strikes. These are delivered by your Eagle fighter. The advantage to these strikes is that they have a very short cooldown. Also, they can be deployed very quickly. The variety of Eagle strikes allows for different situational uses.

Orbital Stratagems: When You Need to Call in the Big Guns

Orbital Gatling Barrage: This is your go-to for clearing out hordes of smaller enemies. It delivers a sustained stream of bullets over a wide area, making it perfect for wiping out bug breaches or automaton patrols. The orbital gatling barrage is great for crowd control and can buy your team precious time to reposition or reload. The key to using the orbital gatling barrage effectively is to predict where the enemies will be. Also, it’s not too effective against heavily armored enemies.
Orbital 120MM HE Barrage: This is a great area denial tool, perfect for taking out nests, factories, and other static targets. It can also be used to disrupt enemy advances and force them to scatter. It's a high-explosive barrage and is great to soften up strongholds, which will allow your team to follow up with other attacks. However, it has a long cooldown time, so use it wisely.
Orbital Railgun Strike: This is a precision strike that's ideal for taking out heavily armored targets like Chargers and Bile Titans. It hits hard and fast, making it a great option for eliminating high-priority threats. One key factor is that you need to be precise when aiming. The smaller area of effect means you must place the strike directly where you want it. This strike is great against targets that don't move too fast.

Eagle Stratagems: Quick and Dirty Destruction

Eagle Strafing Run: This is a quick and efficient way to eliminate a group of enemies or clear a small area. The Eagle fighter makes a pass over the target area, dropping a stream of bombs. This strike has a fast cooldown, which makes it ideal for frequent use. This strike is versatile and can be used on various targets. However, its effectiveness is limited against heavily armored enemies.
Eagle Airstrike: Similar to the strafing run, but with a wider area of effect and more destructive power. Perfect for taking out bug breaches or automaton outposts. A great option for clearing out large groups of enemies or taking down heavily fortified positions. However, it does have a slightly longer cooldown than the strafing run.
Eagle Cluster Bomb: This strike delivers a series of smaller bombs over a wide area, making it a good choice for clearing out nests, factories, and other entrenched positions. Very useful for dealing with clusters of enemies in a medium-sized area. This allows you to eliminate multiple targets with a single stratagem. However, the cluster bomb can be less effective against more mobile targets.

Defensive Stratagems: Holding the Line

Sometimes, you need to dig in, fortify your position, and let the enemy come to you. That's where defensive stratagems come in. They provide you with the tools to control the battlefield, slow down enemy advances, and protect key objectives. The most popular and useful is the sentries. Sentries automatically engage enemies within their range. This gives you time to focus on other tasks or cover your teammates.

Sentry Guns: Your Automated Bodyguards

Machine Gun Sentry: This is a general-purpose sentry that's effective against a wide range of enemies. It can engage both light and medium armored targets. The machine gun sentry is great for providing covering fire and protecting your flanks. It's also easy to deploy, making it a good choice for most situations. This is one of the more versatile options that most players will find useful. However, it's not very effective against heavily armored enemies or large groups.
Autocannon Sentry: This sentry is designed to take out heavily armored targets. It has a higher damage output than the machine gun sentry, but it has a slower rate of fire. Perfect for dealing with Chargers, Bile Titans, and other heavy units. One of the best options if you have a lot of heavy armored enemies. However, it's less effective against smaller, faster enemies. Also, the autocannon sentry's slower rate of fire means it can be overwhelmed by large groups.
Mortar Sentry: This sentry launches explosive shells over a long distance, making it ideal for clearing out nests, factories, and other entrenched positions. A great option for indirect fire support and can be deployed behind cover, which keeps it safe from enemy fire. The mortar sentry is effective against a variety of enemy types, and it can also provide suppression fire. However, the mortar sentry can sometimes target your teammates. Make sure you deploy it in a safe location.

Mines: Setting the Traps

Anti-Personnel Mines: These mines are designed to take out light infantry and are very effective at slowing down enemy advances. Deploy these in chokepoints and high-traffic areas to maximize their effectiveness. They're a great way to create defensive perimeters and protect objectives. The anti-personnel mines are easy to deploy and don't require any special aiming. However, they're not effective against heavily armored enemies.
Anti-Tank Mines: These mines are designed to take out heavy vehicles and are great for dealing with Chargers, Bile Titans, and other armored threats. They have a high explosive power and can eliminate heavily armored enemies. The anti-tank mines are essential for dealing with these types of enemies. However, they can be easily triggered by friendly fire.

Support Stratagems: Helping Your Squad

Not every stratagem needs to be about blowing things up. Sometimes, you need to provide support to your team. Support stratagems are designed to help you and your teammates stay alive, resupply your ammo, and generally make your lives easier on the battlefield. The most essential support stratagem is the supply pack. This allows you and your teammates to replenish ammo, grenades, and stims on the go. This is a must-have for all teams.

Reinforcements: Bringing in the Cavalry

Orbital Smoke Strike: This support stratagem deploys a smoke screen over a designated area. This is a great way to create cover for your team and obscure enemy vision. This helps you to retreat or reposition without being shot. This is essential for getting out of sticky situations, covering a retreat, or providing cover for your team as they push forward.
Guard Dog Rover: This is a personal drone that hovers around you and fires at enemies. The guard dog rover can be a great asset in combat, but it's important to remember that it can also be destroyed by enemy fire. This gives you extra firepower and can help protect your flanks. Also, the guard dog rover is great for solo players, as it provides an extra layer of defense.
Orbital EMS Strike: This stratagem generates an electromagnetic pulse that stuns and slows enemies in a targeted area. It's a great way to control crowds or create opportunities for your team to attack. It's effective against most enemy types, as it can be used to set up kills. The orbital EMS strike is a powerful tool to change the course of combat.

Mobility and Survival: Staying Alive

Supply Pack: This is a backpack that replenishes ammo, grenades, and stims for you and your teammates. It's a must-have for any Helldiver and can be used to keep your team supplied throughout the mission. The supply pack is essential for long missions, as it allows you to sustain your team. Furthermore, it helps increase your survivability, as it gives you the ability to heal yourself. In essence, it keeps you in the fight.
Shield Generator Pack: A backpack that generates a personal shield, protecting you from incoming fire. It absorbs a certain amount of damage before it needs to recharge. It's a great way to increase your survivability, especially against heavy enemy fire. The shield generator pack is particularly useful in areas with a lot of enemy fire. It allows you to move freely without taking as much damage. This can be used to get yourself out of sticky situations.
Reinforce: This is the most crucial support stratagem in the game. It allows you to call in reinforcements for your fallen teammates. It's essential for keeping your team alive and fighting. The reinforce stratagem is the lifeblood of the Helldivers, allowing you to quickly bring your teammates back into the fight. Without reinforcements, your team will quickly be overwhelmed. This keeps your team in the fight, so you can continue the fight for democracy!

Mastering Stratagem Inputs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, so you know what stratagems are, and you've got a general idea of which ones you want to use. Now, let's talk about how to use them. The most important part of using a stratagem is entering the correct input code. The input codes in Helldivers 2 are based on the directional buttons on your controller: Up, Down, Left, and Right. Each stratagem has a unique code, and you'll need to memorize them to use them effectively. Here's a step-by-step guide to mastering the input process:

Memorize the Codes: The first step is to learn the input codes for your favorite stratagems. The game provides the codes in the loadout screen. You can also find lists online. Start with a few essential stratagems, like the Eagle Airstrike, and then gradually learn more as you progress.
Practice Makes Perfect: Once you know the codes, practice entering them. Start in a safe area, away from enemies, and focus on getting the inputs correct. Repeat the codes over and over until they become second nature. You can practice in the tutorial area or during the initial stages of a mission.
Speed and Accuracy: As you get more comfortable with the codes, start practicing your speed. Aim to enter the codes as quickly as possible without sacrificing accuracy. The faster you can deploy your stratagems, the more effective you'll be in combat.
Under Pressure: The true test of your stratagem mastery will come in the heat of battle. When you're surrounded by enemies, under fire, and facing a horde of Terminids or Automatons, you'll need to input your codes quickly and accurately. Try to maintain focus and remain calm in these situations. This will require some practice.
Adapt and React: The battlefield is dynamic, and you'll often need to adapt your stratagem use to the situation. Learn to recognize when to use certain stratagems and when to hold back. You may need to change your stratagem selections depending on the mission and the enemy you are facing. This requires some practice to develop a feel for the game.

Tips and Tricks for Efficient Stratagem Input

Use Visual Cues: Many players find it helpful to visualize the directional inputs as they enter them. For example, when entering the code for the Eagle Airstrike (Down, Right, Down, Right), you can picture a line from the down button to the right button and repeating that sequence.
Develop Muscle Memory: Practice the codes frequently to develop muscle memory. The more you repeat the inputs, the easier they will become to execute.
Anticipate Enemy Attacks: When inputting a code, try to anticipate enemy attacks. If you know that enemies are about to attack, try to find cover or reposition yourself before entering the code.
Prioritize Safety: Never sacrifice your safety to deploy a stratagem. If you're in a dangerous situation, it's better to retreat and regroup than to try to deploy a stratagem and get killed.

Advanced Strategies and Teamwork

Coordinate with Your Squad: The most effective Helldivers teams coordinate their stratagem use. Communicate with your teammates about which stratagems you're bringing and when you plan to use them. This coordination allows you to maximize your firepower and cover each other's weaknesses. It also minimizes friendly fire incidents.
Prioritize Objectives: Focus on completing mission objectives. Use your stratagems to clear out enemies, destroy nests and factories, and protect key locations. This helps to secure the mission objectives and earn rewards.
Adapt to the Situation: Don't be afraid to change your stratagem loadout depending on the mission and the enemy you are facing. If you're facing a lot of armored enemies, bring anti-tank weapons. If you're dealing with hordes of enemies, bring crowd-control stratagems.
Learn Enemy Weaknesses: Understanding enemy weaknesses is critical to maximize the effectiveness of your stratagems. For example, Chargers are vulnerable to orbital strikes. Bile Titans can be damaged by anti-tank weapons. This allows you to select the best stratagems to counter the various threats.
Use Stratagems for Support: Don't forget about support stratagems. Smoke screens, supply packs, and other support tools can be just as effective as offensive weapons. These can also be the key to victory.

Conclusion: For Super Earth!

Alright, Helldivers, you've now got the knowledge and skills you need to dominate the battlefield with stratagems in Helldivers 2. Remember, practice, teamwork, and a healthy dose of courage are the keys to victory. So go out there, spread managed democracy, and make Super Earth proud! Now get out there and show those bugs and bots what freedom is all about! For Super Earth!