In Helldivers 2, facing the Illuminate requires a combination of strategy, precision, and the right arsenal. Unlike other enemy factions, the Illuminate are known for their high mobility, advanced shielding, and devastating ranged attacks. As veteran players know, picking the right weapons can make the difference between a clean extraction and a frustrating wipe. In this guide, we will focus on the Helldivers 2 – Best Weapons Against the Illuminate to help you dominate these elusive foes.
Primary Weapon Recommendations
When confronting the Illuminate, the first consideration is raw damage output combined with armor penetration. Weapons like high-caliber assault rifles and energy-based weaponry excel at bypassing shields, allowing you to take down enemies before they can close the distance. Veteran players often swear by weapons with burst-fire modes or sustained damage, as Illuminate units can rapidly regenerate health if left unchecked.
Assault Rifles with Armor-Piercing Rounds: Ideal for mid-range engagements where precision matters.
Plasma-Based Weapons: Effective against shields, allowing you to penetrate their defenses and force them into melee range.
Heavy Machine Guns: Best for crowd control when multiple Illuminate units converge.
Secondary Weapon Options
Equipping the right secondary weapon is equally crucial. For Helldivers 2 – Best Weapons Against the Illuminate, consider options that complement your primary loadout:
Shotguns: Excellent for close-quarters when Illuminate units flank your team.
Sniper Rifles: Perfect for picking off elite units from a distance before they overwhelm your squad.
Explosives: Grenades or rocket launchers can disrupt formations and strip away shielding quickly.
Tactical Considerations
Weapon choice alone isn’t enough to survive against the Illuminate. Always pair your loadout with intelligent positioning and team coordination. Focus on:
Maintaining distance to exploit your weapons’ range advantage.
Targeting shielded enemies first to reduce incoming damage.
Using environmental cover to minimize exposure while your heavy weapons reload.
Veteran players often emphasize that adaptability is key. Switching between high-damage burst weapons and sustained fire arms can turn the tide of difficult engagements.
Mastering the Helldivers 2 – Best Weapons Against the Illuminate is a combination of choosing the right tools and knowing how to use them effectively. By selecting weapons that balance shield penetration, raw damage, and crowd control, players can handle even the most relentless Illuminate assaults. For squads aiming for high success rates, strategic weapon selection is just as important as reflexes and map awareness.