Helldivers 2 Level Unlocks: Gear, Stratagems & More
Hey Helldivers! So, you're diving headfirst into the chaotic, bug-squashing, robot-dismantling world of Helldivers 2? Awesome! One of the most exciting aspects of the game is unlocking new gear and stratagems as you level up. This guide will break down what you can expect to unlock at each level, ensuring you're always equipped with the best tools to spread managed democracy across the galaxy.
Understanding the Progression System
Before we dive into the specific unlocks, let's talk about how the progression system works in Helldivers 2. Leveling up is primarily achieved by earning experience points (XP) through completing missions, clearing outposts, and generally contributing to the war effort. As you accumulate XP, you'll gain levels, which in turn unlock access to new items in the Acquisitions tab. Keep in mind that unlocking something doesn't automatically give it to you; you'll still need to purchase most items using Requisition points, which are also earned by completing missions.
The importance of teamwork cannot be overstated. Teaming up with other players not only makes missions easier but also increases the overall XP and Requisition points you earn. Coordinating your stratagems and supporting each other is key to success, especially on higher difficulty missions. Moreover, exploring the map thoroughly is super important. Hidden within the levels, you'll often find Requisition point caches that can significantly boost your purchasing power. These caches are usually located in out-of-the-way spots, so keep your eyes peeled and explore every nook and cranny. Don't forget to complete optional objectives during missions as these often reward you with extra XP and Requisition points, speeding up your leveling process and unlocking new gear faster. Also, experiment with different loadouts. Trying out new combinations of weapons, stratagems, and armor can help you discover powerful synergies and strategies that you might not have considered before. And lastly, stay informed about community events and challenges because Helldivers 2 often features special events and challenges that offer increased XP or Requisition point rewards. Participating in these events is a great way to accelerate your progress and unlock new items quickly.
Early Levels (1-10): Establishing Your Arsenal
In the early levels of Helldivers 2, the unlocks focus on providing you with a solid foundation of weapons, stratagems, and support items. These early unlocks are crucial for getting a feel for the game and experimenting with different playstyles. Here's a general idea of what you can expect:
- Levels 1-3: Expect to unlock basic stratagems like the machine gun sentry, supply pack and some of the early-game primary weapons. These are vital for establishing a foothold against the enemy and learning the importance of strategic support. The machine gun sentry, for instance, can provide crucial covering fire, while the supply pack ensures you and your team stay stocked up on essential ammo and grenades.
- Levels 4-6: At this stage, you will start seeing more diverse stratagems, such as the orbital gatling barrage and the orbital airburst. The orbital gatling barrage is an excellent choice for clearing out large groups of weaker enemies, while the orbital airburst is perfect for dealing with armored targets or heavily fortified positions. You'll also begin to unlock more specialized primary weapons tailored to different combat scenarios.
- Levels 7-10: As you approach level 10, you'll gain access to powerful stratagems like the shield generator pack and the anti-material rifle. The shield generator pack provides invaluable protection against enemy fire, allowing you to push forward and take objectives with greater confidence. The anti-material rifle, on the other hand, is perfect for dealing with heavily armored enemies from a distance, providing a significant advantage in challenging encounters. Experimenting with these unlocks is critical to finding what suits your playstyle. Each weapon and stratagem has its strengths and weaknesses, so don't be afraid to try them all out and see what works best for you in different situations.
Mid-Game Levels (11-20): Specialization and Enhanced Firepower
As you progress into the mid-game levels of Helldivers 2, the unlocks become more specialized, allowing you to fine-tune your loadout to match your preferred playstyle and the challenges you face. This is where you start to feel like a truly effective Helldiver, capable of taking on increasingly difficult missions with confidence. Let's take a look at what you can expect to unlock during these levels:
- Levels 11-13: Expect to find unlocks such as the railgun and the orbital laser. These are powerful tools that can significantly enhance your combat capabilities. The railgun, for example, is a high-powered weapon that can penetrate heavily armored targets, making it invaluable for dealing with tough enemies like tanks and chargers. The orbital laser, on the other hand, is a devastating stratagem that can wipe out entire groups of enemies with a single, precise strike. Mastering the use of these advanced tools is key to success in the mid-game.
- Levels 14-17: This stage introduces you to advanced support stratagems like the jump pack and the smoke grenade launcher. The jump pack allows you to quickly traverse the battlefield, reach elevated positions, and evade enemy attacks, providing a significant mobility advantage. The smoke grenade launcher, on the other hand, can create cover and concealment, allowing you to move safely through dangerous areas and set up ambushes. These tools are essential for coordinating with your team and executing complex strategies.
- Levels 18-20: As you approach level 20, you'll gain access to some of the most powerful and versatile stratagems in the game, such as the Eagle airstrike and the autocannon. The Eagle airstrike is a highly customizable stratagem that allows you to call in a variety of different air support options, from cluster bombs to napalm strikes. The autocannon, on the other hand, is a high-rate-of-fire weapon that is effective against both infantry and armored targets. These unlocks will make you a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.
Late-Game Levels (21-30+): God-Tier Stratagems and Customization
Once you hit the late-game levels in Helldivers 2, the unlocks become truly game-changing, offering you access to some of the most powerful and customizable options in the game. This is where you become a true veteran Helldiver, capable of taking on the most challenging missions and leading your team to victory. Here's what you can expect to unlock as you approach the level cap:
- Levels 21-25: Prepare for unlocks like the walking barrage and the flamethrower. The walking barrage is a massive artillery strike that blankets the battlefield in explosions, decimating enemy forces and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The flamethrower, on the other hand, is a devastating close-range weapon that can incinerate entire groups of enemies in a matter of seconds. These unlocks are perfect for clearing out hordes of enemies and controlling key areas of the map.
- Levels 26-30: This stage introduces you to advanced defensive stratagems like the EMS mortar sentry and the ballistic shield. The EMS mortar sentry fires rounds that stun enemies, slowing them down and making them vulnerable to attack. The ballistic shield provides a portable barrier that can protect you and your teammates from enemy fire, allowing you to advance safely and take objectives. These tools are essential for holding your ground and defending against overwhelming enemy forces.
- Levels 30+: As you surpass level 30, you'll gain access to the ultimate stratagems and customization options, such as the nuke and customizable mechs. The nuke is a devastating stratagem that can obliterate an entire area, wiping out everything in its blast radius. The customizable mechs are powerful vehicles that can be equipped with a variety of different weapons and upgrades, allowing you to create a personalized war machine. These unlocks will make you the ultimate weapon in the fight for freedom and democracy.
Tips for Maximizing Your Leveling Speed
Alright, so you're eager to unlock all this awesome gear as quickly as possible? Here are some tips to help you level up faster in Helldivers 2:
- Focus on Completing Missions: This might seem obvious, but the primary way to earn XP is by completing missions. Prioritize completing main objectives and side objectives to maximize your XP gains.
- Play on Higher Difficulties: The higher the difficulty, the more XP you'll earn. However, make sure you're playing at a difficulty level that you can realistically handle with your team.
- Teamwork is Key: Playing with a coordinated team not only makes missions easier but also increases your overall XP and Requisition point earnings. Communicate effectively and support each other.
- Explore the Map: Hidden within the levels, you'll often find XP and Requisition point caches that can significantly boost your progress. Explore every nook and cranny.
- Complete Optional Objectives: Don't forget to complete optional objectives during missions, as these often reward you with extra XP and Requisition points.
- Experiment with Loadouts: Trying out new combinations of weapons, stratagems, and armor can help you discover powerful synergies and strategies that you might not have considered before.
- Stay Informed: Helldivers 2 often features special events and challenges that offer increased XP or Requisition point rewards. Participating in these events is a great way to accelerate your progress.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to unlocking all the amazing gear and stratagems that Helldivers 2 has to offer. Now get out there and spread some managed democracy, Helldiver!