Helldivers 2: Best Loadouts for the Illuminate

Conquer the Illuminate in Helldivers 2 with these Optimized Loadouts!

The Illuminate, with their advanced tech and overwhelming numbers, pose a significant challenge in Helldivers 2. Success hinges on strategic loadouts that exploit their weaknesses. This guide details three effective builds for tackling this formidable foe, catering to various playstyles.

Quick Links:

• Laser Cannon Loadout: Melting the Illuminate
• Lightning Loadout: Shocking the Illuminate
• Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate

The Laser Cannon Loadout: Melting the Illuminate

The PLAS-1 Scorcher and PLAS-101 Purifier excel at eliminating Overseers, including airborne 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 swiftly disables warp ships; Strafing Run eliminates shields, followed by grenades into the exposed bays. The G-13 Incendiary Impact handles chaff effectively. The AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" provides excellent flanking defense against Overseers. The A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry secures objectives, while the Orbital Laser targets Harvesters (especially crucial on higher difficulties). The LAS-98 Laser Cannon delivers devastating long-range damage, melting Overseers and Harvesters with precision.

The Lightning Loadout: Shocking (& Staggering) the Illuminate

This loadout utilizes the ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower to effectively handle both melee and ranged Illuminate units. The Arc Thrower's chain lightning stuns Overseers, especially effective against airborne units. It also damages unshielded Harvesters. The A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower provides excellent crowd control, particularly against groups of flying Overseers. The Eagle Strafing Run and Grenade Pistol remain crucial for warp ship destruction. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser handles heavier threats, with the Orbital Laser being more effective against multiple Harvesters but having limited uses.

The Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate

The MG-43 Machine Gun is the core of this build, offering exceptional versatility against a wide range of Illuminate units. Its high fire rate effectively depletes shields, making the Eagle Strafing Run less critical for warp ship destruction. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack enhances mobility, crucial given the MG-43's stationary reload. The StA-52 Assault Rifle provides sustained fire, while the Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser handles heavier threats. Choose between the A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry or A/G-16 Gatling Sentry to control crowds or defend objectives.

These loadouts provide a solid foundation for combating the Illuminate. Remember to adapt your strategy based on the specific challenges presented in each mission. Good hunting, Helldiver!