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 threat in Helldivers 2. Success hinges on strategically chosen loadouts that exploit their weaknesses. This guide details three effective builds for tackling this challenging enemy faction.

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 Elevated units, and are highly effective against the Voteless. Siege-Ready's increased ammo and faster reloads ensure sustained firepower. The Eagle Strafing Run and GP-31 Grenade Pistol combo efficiently destroys warp ships; use the Strafing Run to disable shields, then grenades to finish them. The G-13 Incendiary Impact is ideal for clearing chaff. The AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" provides excellent flank protection against Overseers. The A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry secures objectives, while the Orbital Laser targets Harvesters. The LAS-98 Laser Cannon melts Overseers and Harvesters with its impressive range. On higher difficulties (levels 9 and 10), the Orbital Laser becomes essential for dealing with multiple Harvesters.

The Lightning Loadout: Shocking (& Staggering) the Illuminate

The ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower effectively handle both melee and ranged Illuminate units. The Arc Thrower's chaining lightning stuns Overseers, especially effective against Elevated units. It also damages unshielded Harvesters. The A/ARC-3 Tesla Tower provides exceptional crowd control, particularly against flying Overseers. The Eagle Strafing Run and Grenade Pistol are crucial for destroying warp ships. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser handles heavier threats; the Orbital Laser is preferable against multiple Harvesters but has limited uses. This build excels at area denial and crowd control, particularly when coordinated with teammates.

The Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate

The MG-43 Machine Gun is incredibly versatile, shredding light and medium enemies, including Harvesters. The Engineering Kit or Peak Physique passive enhances its effectiveness. The high fire rate efficiently depletes shields, making the Eagle Strafing Run less critical for warp ship destruction. Choose either turret sentry to control crowds or defend objectives. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack allows for quick repositioning. The Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser handles heavier threats; the Orbital Laser is more effective against multiple Harvesters. The StA-52 Assault Rifle provides sustained, high-damage fire.