Helldivers 2: Best Loadouts for the Illuminate

Conquering the Illuminate in Helldivers 2: Optimal Loadouts and Strategies

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

I. Quick Links

• Laser Cannon Loadout: Superior Anti-Squid Power
• Lightning Loadout: Stunning and Staggering the Enemy
• Machine Gun Loadout: Versatile Shredding Power

I. The Laser Cannon Loadout: Melting the Illuminate

The PLAS-1 Scorcher and PLAS-101 Purifier excel against Overseers, including Elevated units, and are highly effective against the Voteless. Siege-Ready enhances their already impressive DPS. The Eagle Strafing Run and GP-31 Grenade Pistol combo efficiently destroys warp ships; use the Strafing Run to disable shields, then grenades to exploit exposed weak points. 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 (replace the Sentry if multiple Harvesters are present). The LAS-98 Laser Cannon's range and damage make it ideal for long-range engagements against both Overseers and Harvesters.

II. 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, while the Tesla Tower provides consistent crowd control. The Eagle Strafing Run and Grenade Pistol remain crucial for warp ship destruction. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser provides heavy unit support; the Railcannon is best against unshielded targets, while the Laser excels against multiple Harvesters.

III. The Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate

The MG-43 Machine Gun's versatility makes it ideal against a wide range of Illuminate units. Pair it with either the Engineering Kit or Peak Physique for optimal performance. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack aids mobility during reloads. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser provides heavy unit support. The StA-52 Assault Rifle offers sustained fire for light armor penetration. Choose between the A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry or A/G-16 Gatling Sentry depending on your tactical needs.

These loadouts offer diverse strategies to overcome the Illuminate threat. Remember to adapt your approach based on the specific challenges presented in each mission.