Helldivers 2: Stratagems Unlock Levels Guide
So, you're diving headfirst into the chaotic, bug-squashing, and robot-demolishing world of Helldivers 2, huh? Awesome! One of the most crucial aspects of becoming a true Helldiver is mastering the use of Stratagems. These powerful tools can turn the tide of battle, calling in everything from devastating airstrikes to life-saving supply drops. But here's the thing, guys: you don't get access to all these goodies right away. You need to unlock them as you level up. Let's break down the Stratagems unlock levels in Helldivers 2, so you can plan your progression and become the ultimate force for Managed Democracy!
Understanding Stratagems in Helldivers 2
Before we dive into the specific unlock levels, let's make sure we're all on the same page about what Stratagems actually are. Think of them as your off-field support abilities. They're not weapons you pick up, but rather commands you input using a specific sequence of directional inputs (think up, down, left, right on your D-pad or keyboard). Once you've entered the correct code, you can call in the Stratagem, whether it's a powerful orbital strike, a resupply pod, or a defensive turret. Stratagems are absolutely essential for success in Helldivers 2, especially on higher difficulties. You'll quickly find that some missions are virtually impossible without the right Stratagem support. Knowing which Stratagems to bring and when to use them is a key part of being an effective Helldiver.
Also, keep in mind that Stratagems have cooldowns. You can't just spam orbital bombardments endlessly (as much as you might want to!). You'll need to manage your Stratagem usage carefully, considering the cooldown times and the situation at hand. Some Stratagems have very short cooldowns, allowing for frequent use, while others have much longer cooldowns, requiring you to use them more strategically. Furthermore, certain enemy types can disrupt your Stratagem calls, so you'll need to be aware of your surroundings and protect yourself while inputting the codes. Upgrading your ship modules also plays a critical role; these upgrades, purchased with Requisition Slips earned from completing missions, can significantly reduce Stratagem cooldowns and enhance their effectiveness, making you an even more potent force on the battlefield. So, always be on the lookout for opportunities to improve your ship and optimize your Stratagems for maximum impact. Experimenting with different Stratagem combinations is highly recommended to discover what works best for your playstyle and the challenges you face. Whether you prefer a heavily offensive approach with powerful explosives or a more defensive strategy with shields and turrets, there's a Stratagem loadout to suit every Helldiver.
How to Unlock Stratagems: Leveling Up and Requisition
The primary way to unlock Stratagems in Helldivers 2 is by leveling up your character. As you complete missions and earn experience, you'll gain levels, unlocking new Stratagems at specific level milestones. You can view the available Stratagems and their unlock levels in the Stratagem menu on your ship. But here's the catch: unlocking a Stratagem doesn't automatically give it to you. You also need to purchase it using Requisition Slips, which you earn by completing missions and finding them during gameplay. Think of Requisition Slips as your in-game currency for acquiring new Stratagems. Therefore, you'll need to balance your leveling progress with your Requisition Slip earnings to acquire the Stratagems you want. Prioritize the Stratagems that best fit your playstyle and the types of missions you typically undertake.
Also, remember that some Stratagems are locked behind specific Ship Modules. These modules require Samples, a resource found during missions, to unlock. This adds another layer of progression, as you'll need to explore maps thoroughly to gather Samples and unlock the Ship Modules that unlock even more powerful Stratagems. Teamwork is crucial here, as coordinating with your squad to find Samples and complete objectives will significantly accelerate your progress. Efficiently managing your resources, including Requisition Slips and Samples, is key to maximizing your effectiveness in Helldivers 2. So, keep an eye out for those valuable resources and work together with your fellow Helldivers to unlock the full potential of your Stratagem arsenal. And don't forget to spread Managed Democracy while you're at it!
Stratagem Unlock Levels: A Detailed Breakdown
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a breakdown of some notable Stratagems and the levels at which they unlock. Keep in mind that this list may not be exhaustive, as there might be some variations or additions depending on updates and patches to the game. However, it should give you a solid idea of what to expect as you progress through the ranks.
- Level 1 (Starting Stratagems):
- Machine Gun
- Supply Pack
- Orbital Gatling Barrage
- Eagle 110mm Rocket Pods
- Mortar Sentry
These are your starter tools, guys. Get familiar with them; they'll be your bread and butter in the early game. The Machine Gun provides reliable firepower, the Supply Pack keeps you stocked with ammo and stims, and the Orbital Gatling Barrage offers some early crowd control. The Eagle 110mm Rocket Pods give you some anti-armor capability, while the Mortar Sentry provides automated fire support. Experiment with these Stratagems to find which ones suit your playstyle best.
- Level 3:
- Orbital Airburst Strike
This Stratagem provides a versatile explosive option, good for clearing out groups of weaker enemies. The Airburst Strike is particularly effective against bugs, as it can quickly eliminate large swarms before they get too close. It's a great tool for controlling the battlefield and preventing enemies from overwhelming your position. Mastering the timing and placement of the Airburst Strike is key to maximizing its effectiveness.
- Level 5:
- Eagle Strafing Run
The Eagle Strafing Run is a classic for a reason. It allows you to call in a fast-moving air support to clear a line of enemies quickly. It's highly effective against lightly armored targets and can be used to create a safe path through enemy lines. Use it wisely to take out key targets or to thin out the herd before engaging in close combat. Timing is crucial, as the Strafing Run has a limited duration and range. Practice using it effectively to make the most of its destructive potential.
- Level 8:
- Guard Dog
The Guard Dog is a backpack-mounted drone that provides automated fire support. It's like having a little buddy watching your back, constantly scanning for threats and engaging enemies that get too close. While the Guard Dog's damage output isn't massive, it can be incredibly useful for suppressing enemies and providing early warnings of incoming attacks. It's especially helpful when dealing with fast-moving enemies that can flank you easily. Consider the Guard Dog for solo missions or when playing in a less coordinated group.
- Level 10:
- Shield Generator Pack
This is a game-changer, guys! The Shield Generator Pack provides a personal energy shield that can absorb a significant amount of damage. It's invaluable for surviving intense firefights and protecting yourself from heavy weapons fire. The Shield Generator Pack can significantly increase your survivability, allowing you to push into enemy territory with greater confidence. However, keep in mind that the shield has a limited capacity and will eventually break under sustained fire. Use it wisely and take cover when necessary to recharge the shield.
- Level 12:
- Orbital Precision Strike
The Orbital Precision Strike allows you to call in a highly accurate artillery strike on a designated target. It's perfect for taking out heavily armored enemies or destroying enemy structures from a safe distance. The Precision Strike requires careful aiming and timing, but the results can be devastating. Use it to eliminate key threats before they can pose a danger to your team. Coordinating with your squad to identify and target high-priority targets is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of the Orbital Precision Strike.
- Level 15:
- Eagle Cluster Bomb
The Eagle Cluster Bomb is a powerful area-of-effect weapon that blankets a large area with explosives. It's highly effective against large groups of enemies and can quickly clear out heavily infested areas. However, be careful not to use it too close to your own team, as the explosions can easily cause friendly fire. The Cluster Bomb is a great tool for controlling the battlefield and preventing enemies from overwhelming your position. Use it strategically to maximize its impact and minimize the risk to your allies.
- Level 20:
- Orbital Railcannon Strike
This is one of the most powerful Stratagems in the game. The Orbital Railcannon Strike fires a high-velocity projectile that can penetrate even the heaviest armor. It's perfect for taking out tough enemies like Chargers and Bile Titans with a single shot. The Railcannon Strike has a long cooldown, so use it wisely on high-priority targets. Coordinating with your team to identify and eliminate the most dangerous enemies is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of the Railcannon Strike. This is your ultimate anti-armor weapon, so use it judiciously.
Tips for Efficient Stratagem Unlocking
Here are a few tips to help you unlock Stratagems more efficiently:
- Focus on completing missions: Completing missions is the fastest way to earn experience and Requisition Slips. Prioritize completing main objectives and secondary objectives to maximize your rewards.
- Play on higher difficulties: Higher difficulties offer greater experience and Requisition Slip rewards, but they also pose a greater challenge. Find a difficulty level that you can consistently complete without too much trouble.
- Team up with friends: Playing with friends makes missions easier and more enjoyable. Coordinate your Stratagem loadouts and tactics to maximize your effectiveness.
- Collect Samples: Don't forget to collect Samples during missions. Samples are needed to unlock Ship Modules, which unlock even more Stratagems and enhance your existing ones.
- Prioritize essential Stratagems: Focus on unlocking Stratagems that fit your playstyle and are effective against the types of enemies you typically encounter. Don't waste Requisition Slips on Stratagems that you're unlikely to use.
Final Thoughts: Mastering Your Stratagems
Unlocking Stratagems is a crucial part of your progression in Helldivers 2. By understanding the unlock levels and focusing on efficient progression, you can quickly acquire the tools you need to become a true force for Managed Democracy. So, get out there, complete those missions, and unlock those Stratagems! Remember to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you. And most importantly, have fun spreading freedom and democracy across the galaxy, one Stratagem at a time! Good luck out there, Helldivers! For Super Earth!