Helldivers 2: Top Loadouts vs. Illuminate

If you're diving into *Helldivers 2*, you've likely encountered the formidable Illuminate—a faction renowned for their cutting-edge technology and relentless tactics. To stand a chance against them, you'll need the right loadout to exploit their weaknesses while staying protected from their superior firepower. Mastering the Illuminate requires a balanced approach, combining weapons, armor passives, and stratagems to handle both light infantry and heavily armored units.

The Laser Cannon Loadout: Melting the Illuminate

The PLAS-1 Scorcher and PLAS-101 Purifier are among the best primary weapons in Helldivers 2. They obliterate Overseers, including the agile Elevated units, and are equally effective against the Voteless. With the Siege-Ready armor passive, you’ll enjoy faster reloads and more ammo, ensuring you can handle multiple enemies at once. The Eagle Strafing Run and GP-31 Grenade Pistol combo is perfect for destroying parked warp ships. Start with a Strafing Run to deplete their shields, then follow up with a grenade to make them explode. The G-13 Incendiary Impact is great for clearing chaff, so save it for when you’re using the Grenade Pistol.

For flank protection, the AX/AR-23 "Guard Dog" is incredibly effective against medium-armored Overseers. Meanwhile, the A/MG-43 Machine Gun Sentry is ideal for holding positions during defense missions. If you prefer targeting heavies from afar, swap it for the Orbital Laser to take down Harvesters.

Finally, the LAS-98 Laser Cannon is a game-changer. Its massive range allows you to pick off Overseers and Harvesters from a safe distance. Just remember to use a Strafing Run to weaken their shields before deploying the Laser Cannon.

The Lightning Loadout: Shocking (& Staggering) the Illuminate

The ARC-12 Blitzer and ARC-3 Arc Thrower are perfect for taking on both ranged and melee Illuminate units. The Arc Thrower’s lightning arcs chain and stagger enemies, leaving Overseers stunned mid-air. Combine this with the Tesla Tower for consistent crowd control, especially against flying units. This loadout is particularly effective when paired with other players to maximize stagger effects.

For heavy threats, the Orbital Railcannon Strike is unmatched. It offers unlimited uses, making it ideal for taking down multiple heavies. Alternatively, the Orbital Laser can handle several shielded Harvesters at once, though it has limited charges. Always use a Strafing Run to weaken shields first.

Remember, the Eagle Strafing Run and Grenade Pistol remain essential for destroying warp ships. Avoid swapping them unless you have backup support.

The Machine Gun Loadout: Shredding the Illuminate

The MG-43 Machine Gun is the ultimate all-rounder against the Illuminate. It tears through light and medium enemies, as well as Harvesters. Paired with the Engineering Kit, it reduces recoil for better accuracy. Alternatively, the Peak Physique armor passive improves mobility, making it easier to target airborne units.

Unlike the MG-206, the MG-43 excels at depleting shields, eliminating the need for the Eagle Strafing Run. Instead, pair it with a Machine Gun Sentry or Gatling Sentry to handle large crowds or defend objectives. The LIFT-850 Jump Pack helps you stay mobile during reloads, especially on urban maps.

To finish off heavies, consider the Orbital Railcannon Strike or Orbital Laser. The former works best against unshielded targets, while the latter can take down multiple shielded Harvesters simultaneously.

For the primary weapon, the StA-52 Assault Rifle is a solid choice. Its massive drum magazine provides sustained fire, making it ideal for light-armor-piercing missions.