Helldivers 2 – How to Use Stratagems

Helldivers 2, the sequel to the critically acclaimed top-down shooter, introduces a revamped and expanded stratagem system. These powerful tools can turn the tide of battle in your favor, but mastering their use requires strategy, coordination, and quick thinking. In this guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about using stratagems effectively in Helldivers 2.

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Understanding Stratagems

Stratagems are special abilities that can be called in during gameplay to aid you and your team. They range from airstrikes and supply drops to deployable turrets and vehicles. Each stratagem requires a specific combination of button inputs to activate and has a cooldown period before it can be used again. Proper timing and placement of stratagems are crucial for success in Helldivers 2’s challenging missions.

How to Choose the Right Stratagems

Before deploying into a mission, you’ll need to select the stratagems that best suit your playstyle and the mission objectives. Consider the type of enemies you’ll be facing, the terrain of the mission area, and the role you want to play in your team. For example, if you’re facing a swarm of fast-moving enemies, a defensive stratagem like a turret or minefield can help you hold them off while you regroup.

How to Use Stratagem Codes

In Helldivers 2, stratagems are strong tools or enhancements that can be used in the course of a mission. The Patriotic Administration Center, Orbital Cannons, Hanger, Bridge, Engineering Bay, and Robotics Workshop are the six categories into which stratagems fall. Each category has a distinct function. Four stratagems can be equipped simultaneously; you can mix and match stratagems from the same category.

To succeed, whether you’re working with pals or on your own, stratagems are essential. Enter the code of a stratagem in the right order to use it. Holding L1 will cause your Stratagem code list to open. Enter codes using the D-pad. You will need to hold down the Ctrl key and use WASD to enter the codes if you’re using a mouse and keyboard to play on a PC.

At Ship Management, stratagems can be unlocked through the accumulation of Requisitions (cash) and levels gained by accomplishing mission objectives. Mid-mission, you are unable to switch the Stratagem you are using. Make sure to plan your supplies according to the mission’s goals and degree of difficulty. Unless you have a preference for them, support weapons can appear as ground loot, meaning you can always pick them up at random. Finally, when the Stratagem list is active, you are unable to use any weapons.

Mastering Advanced Stratagem Techniques

While basic stratagem usage is essential, mastering advanced techniques can take your Helldivers 2 gameplay to the next level. Here are some advanced strategies to consider:

1. Combo Stratagems: Some stratagems can be combined for devastating effects. For example, calling in an airstrike to soften up a group of enemies before deploying a turret can create a deadly kill zone.
2. Area Denial: Use stratagems like mines or incendiary bombs to deny enemy access to certain areas. This can be especially effective when defending objectives or holding a strategic position.
3. Support Role: Consider taking on a support role in your team by focusing on healing and resupply stratagems. This can be crucial in keeping your team alive and well-supplied during intense battles.
4. Quick Thinking: In fast-paced battles, you may not always have time to bring up the stratagem menu. Memorizing the button combinations for your most frequently used stratagems can help you deploy them quickly when needed.
5. Watch Your Fire: Be mindful of friendly fire when using offensive stratagems. Communicate with your team to avoid accidentally damaging or killing teammates with your attacks.
6. Learn from Experience: Every mission in Helldivers 2 is an opportunity to learn and improve. Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t, and use that knowledge to refine your strategies for future missions.

Coordinating with Other Helldivers

Effective communication is key to success in Helldivers 2. Use the in-game communication tools to coordinate your stratagem usage with other players. For example, if one player is focusing on offensive stratagems, another can focus on defensive or support stratagems to complement their efforts.

FAQs

Can I use stratagems solo, or are they more effective in multiplayer?

While stratagems can be used solo, they are often more effective in multiplayer, where they can be coordinated with other players’ actions for maximum impact.

Are there any limitations to how often I can use stratagems?

Yes, each stratagem has a cooldown period after use, during which you cannot use the same stratagem again. However, you can use other stratagems during this time.

Can I customize my stratagem loadout, or are they fixed?

You can customize your stratagem loadout before each mission, choosing from a selection of available stratagems based on your preferences and the mission objectives.

Do I need to aim stratagems, or do they automatically target enemies?

Most stratagems require you to select a location on the map where they will be deployed. Some offensive stratagems, like airstrikes, can be aimed to target specific areas.

Can I cancel a stratagem once it’s been called in?

Once you’ve called in a stratagem, you cannot cancel it. It will be deployed at the selected location after a short delay.

Conclusion

Mastering stratagems in Helldivers 2 requires a combination of strategy, coordination, and quick thinking. By understanding the different types of stratagems, choosing the right ones for the mission, using them effectively in battle, coordinating with your team, and adapting to the situation, you can become a formidable force on the battlefield. So, gear up, dive into the fray, and show the enemies of humanity what it means to be a Helldiver!