Helldivers 2 Stratagems: Unlock The Best Gear & Codes
Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Ready to dive deeper into the chaotic, bug-squashing, and robot-dismantling world of Helldivers 2? Then you've come to the right place! This guide is your ultimate resource for understanding, unlocking, and mastering Stratagems – the key to surviving and thriving in the face of overwhelming alien forces. We're going to break down everything from basic Stratagem deployment to advanced strategies that will turn you into a true legend of Super Earth. So buckle up, soldier, and let's get started!
What are Stratagems in Helldivers 2?
Let's kick things off with the basics. In Helldivers 2, Stratagems are essentially your lifeline. Think of them as powerful, on-demand support tools that can drastically change the tide of battle. Whether you need a devastating orbital strike to clear out a horde of Terminids, a sturdy supply drop to replenish your ammo, or a heavily armored mech to stomp around in, Stratagems have got you covered. But here's the catch: you need to know the correct Stratagem codes to call them in. These codes are specific sequences of directional inputs that you enter using your character's backpack. Mess up the code, and you'll be left empty-handed – and probably swarmed by enemies!
What makes Stratagems so essential is their versatility. They aren't just about raw firepower; they offer a wide range of tactical options. Need to create a defensive perimeter? Deploy some turrets. Need to quickly traverse a large area? Call in a personal vehicle. Need to reinforce your squad after a wipe? There's a Stratagem for that too! Mastering Stratagems means understanding not only what each one does, but also when and where to use it most effectively. This is where the real skill of a Helldiver comes into play – knowing how to adapt to different situations and use your Stratagems to overcome any challenge. Remember, the right Stratagem at the right time can be the difference between victory and a swift return trip to your Super Destroyer.
Another crucial aspect of Stratagems is their cooldown system. Each Stratagem has a specific cooldown period after it's used, preventing you from spamming the most powerful abilities. This forces you to think strategically about how you use your Stratagems and to coordinate with your team to maximize their impact. Additionally, some Stratagems have limited uses per mission, so you need to make every call count. This adds another layer of depth to the gameplay, requiring you to carefully manage your resources and prioritize your objectives. All these elements combine to make Stratagems a dynamic and engaging part of Helldivers 2, rewarding players who take the time to learn and master their intricacies.
How to Unlock Stratagems
Alright, so you're itching to get your hands on some sweet Stratagems, right? Here's how it works: Stratagems are primarily unlocked by spending Requisition Slips at the Ship Management terminal on your Super Destroyer. Requisition Slips are earned by completing missions and objectives while out on the field. The harder the mission and the more objectives you complete, the more Requisition Slips you'll earn. So, the key to unlocking new Stratagems is to get out there, fight bravely, and complete those missions!
The Ship Management terminal is your go-to place for everything related to Stratagems. It's where you can view all the available Stratagems, see their costs in Requisition Slips, and purchase the ones you want to add to your arsenal. The terminal also provides detailed information about each Stratagem, including its effects, cooldown time, and input code. Take some time to browse through the available options and see what catches your eye. Do you prefer heavy firepower? Focus on unlocking orbital strikes and powerful support weapons. Are you more of a tactical player? Invest in defensive structures and utility Stratagems. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
In addition to Requisition Slips, some Stratagems may also require you to reach a certain level or complete specific achievements. These requirements are usually indicated on the Ship Management terminal, so be sure to check the details of each Stratagem before you start grinding for it. Also, keep an eye out for special events and promotions that may offer bonus Requisition Slips or discounts on certain Stratagems. These events can be a great way to quickly expand your collection and try out new strategies. Remember, unlocking Stratagems is an ongoing process, and the more you play, the more options you'll have at your disposal. So keep fighting the good fight, and you'll soon have a formidable arsenal of Stratagems to help you liberate the galaxy.
Essential Stratagems for Every Helldiver
Okay, let's talk about some must-have Stratagems that every Helldiver should prioritize unlocking. These are the bread-and-butter options that will serve you well in a wide variety of situations. First up, we have the Orbital Precision Strike. This Stratagem allows you to call in a highly accurate orbital bombardment on a designated area. It's perfect for taking out heavily armored targets or clearing out entrenched enemy positions. The input code is simple and easy to remember, making it a reliable option in a pinch.
Next on the list is the Supply Drop. This Stratagem is essential for keeping your squad stocked up on ammo, grenades, and stims. It drops a resupply pod containing a generous amount of resources, ensuring that you and your teammates can stay in the fight for longer. The Supply Drop is especially useful during long missions or when you're facing waves of enemies. Remember to call it in a safe location, as the drop pod can crush anything (or anyone) in its path! Another crucial Stratagem is the Reinforce. This allows you to call in reinforcements to replace fallen teammates. In a game as challenging as Helldivers 2, death is inevitable, so having a reliable way to bring back your squad is essential. The Reinforce Stratagem has a relatively short cooldown, allowing you to quickly recover from casualties and keep the pressure on the enemy.
Beyond these core Stratagems, there are several other options that are worth considering, depending on your playstyle and the challenges you're facing. The MG-43 Machine Gun is a great choice for providing sustained firepower and suppressing enemy advances. The Guard Dog Rover is a useful companion that automatically targets and eliminates nearby threats, freeing you up to focus on other tasks. And the Eagle Airstrike is a devastating area-of-effect attack that can wipe out entire groups of enemies. Experiment with different Stratagems and find the ones that best suit your needs. The key is to have a well-rounded loadout that can handle a variety of situations. So, don't be afraid to try new things and see what works for you. With the right Stratagems at your disposal, you'll be well-equipped to take on any challenge that Helldivers 2 throws your way.
Advanced Stratagem Strategies
Now that you've got the basics down, let's dive into some advanced strategies that will help you truly master Stratagems in Helldivers 2. One of the most important things to understand is the concept of Stratagem combos. By combining different Stratagems in creative ways, you can create devastating effects that can turn the tide of battle. For example, try using the Orbital Precision Strike to soften up a heavily armored target, followed by an Eagle Airstrike to finish it off. Or, use the Smoke Grenade to create cover, allowing you to safely deploy a turret or call in a Supply Drop.
Another advanced strategy is to coordinate your Stratagem usage with your team. By communicating with your teammates and planning your attacks in advance, you can maximize the effectiveness of your Stratagems. For example, one player could use the Orbital EMS Strike to stun a group of enemies, while another player uses the Eagle Cluster Bomb to wipe them out. Coordination is key to success in Helldivers 2, and Stratagems are a powerful tool for achieving that. Also, be mindful of environmental hazards when using Stratagems. Certain Stratagems can have unintended consequences if used in the wrong location. For example, using an incendiary Stratagem near a flammable object could create a massive explosion that damages or kills you and your teammates. Similarly, using an orbital strike near a friendly structure could accidentally destroy it. Always be aware of your surroundings and use your Stratagems responsibly.
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different Stratagem loadouts. The best way to find out what works for you is to try different combinations and see what feels the most effective. Some players prefer to focus on heavy firepower, while others prefer a more tactical approach. There's no right or wrong answer, so find what suits your playstyle and have fun with it. And remember, the meta is always evolving, so be prepared to adapt your strategies as new Stratagems are released and existing ones are rebalanced. By staying flexible and open-minded, you'll be able to stay ahead of the curve and dominate the battlefield. So, go out there, Helldiver, and show those bugs and bots what you're made of!
Stratagem Codes List
Alright, Helldivers, time to get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a handy list of Stratagem codes to keep you locked and loaded. Remember, these codes are directional inputs (Up, Down, Left, Right) that you enter using your character's backpack during gameplay. Memorize them, write them down, tattoo them on your arm – whatever it takes to have them ready when you need them most!
Note: This list may not be exhaustive and is subject to change as the game is updated. Always refer to the in-game Ship Management terminal for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Reinforce: Down, Up, Right, Left
 - Supply Drop: Down, Down, Left, Up, Right
 - Orbital Gatling Barrage: Right, Down, Left, Up, Right
 - Orbital Airburst Strike: Right, Right, Up
 - Orbital Precision Strike: Up, Right, Down, Left, Up
 - Orbital 120MM HE Barrage: Down, Right, Up, Left, Down
 - Orbital 380MM HE Barrage: Down, Up, Right, Right, Left
 - Orbital Walking Barrage: Right, Left, Down, Up, Up
 - Eagle Strafing Run: Up, Right, Right
 - Eagle Airstrike: Up, Right, Down, Right
 - Eagle Cluster Bomb: Up, Right, Down, Down, Right
 - Eagle Napalm Airstrike: Up, Right, Down, Up
 - Eagle Smoke Strike: Up, Right, Up, Down
 - MG-43 Machine Gun: Down, Left, Right, Up, Left
 - GR-8 Recoilless Rifle: Down, Right, Left, Down, Up
 - FLAM-40 Flamethrower: Down, Left, Up, Right, Down
 - LAS-5 Scythe: Down, Left, Right, Up, Right
 - EAT-17: Down, Right, Left, Up, Down
 - Railgun: Down, Right, Left, Up, Right
 - Ballistic Shield Backpack: Left, Down, Right, Up, Left
 - Shield Generator Pack: Down, Up, Left, Right, Down
 - Jump Pack: Down, Up, Up, Down
 - Anti-Personnel Minefield: Down, Left, Down, Right
 - EMS Mortar Sentry: Down, Up, Left, Up, Right
 - Gatling Sentry: Down, Up, Right, Left, Down
 - Mortar Sentry: Down, Up, Right, Right, Down
 - Guard Dog Rover: Left, Up, Right, Right, Left
 
Keep this list handy, practice those inputs, and you'll be calling in Stratagems like a pro in no time! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if you mess up the codes at first. Just keep practicing, and you'll eventually develop muscle memory. And always double-check your inputs before confirming, as a wrong code can lead to disastrous consequences. So, go forth, Helldiver, and unleash the power of Stratagems upon your enemies!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to Stratagems in Helldivers 2. From understanding what they are and how to unlock them, to mastering advanced strategies and memorizing those crucial codes, you're now well-equipped to take on the challenges that await you on the galactic front lines. Remember, Stratagems are more than just powerful weapons; they're tools that allow you to adapt to different situations, coordinate with your team, and ultimately, achieve victory against overwhelming odds. So, embrace the power of Stratagems, experiment with different loadouts, and never stop learning.
Helldivers 2 is a game that rewards creativity, teamwork, and strategic thinking. By mastering Stratagems, you'll not only become a more effective Helldiver, but you'll also unlock a whole new level of enjoyment and satisfaction from the game. So, go out there, fight bravely, and show those alien scum what Super Earth is made of! And remember, the galaxy is counting on you! Now go spread some managed democracy, one Stratagem at a time!