Helldivers 1 Stratagems: A Complete Guide
Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Ready to dive back into the chaotic, bug-squashing, and democracy-spreading world of Helldivers 1? One of the most crucial aspects of being an effective Helldiver is mastering the use of stratagems. These powerful tools can turn the tide of battle, providing you with everything from heavy firepower to vital support. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Helldivers 1 stratagems, so you can liberate planets with confidence and style.
What are Stratagems?
Stratagems are essentially your lifeline in Helldivers 1. Think of them as your special abilities or support call-ins. They range from offensive weaponry like airstrikes and mech suits to defensive measures like supply drops and defensive turrets. Knowing which stratagem to use and when is key to surviving the intense battles against the alien hordes. Each stratagem is activated by inputting a specific sequence of directional commands (think Konami Code, but for interstellar warfare*), and then tossing down a beacon to call it in. But be warned, guys: enemies can destroy the beacon before the stratagem arrives, or worse, change the beacon's destination! So, you have to use them wisely!
The beauty of Helldivers 1 is that it forces you to think strategically. You can't just run and gun your way through every mission (well, you can try, but it probably won't end well). Stratagems add a layer of tactical depth, requiring you to coordinate with your team and adapt to different combat situations. Whether you’re facing down hordes of Terminids, cyborg onslaughts, or Illuminate trickery, the right stratagem can make all the difference. And don't forget, some stratagems have limited uses per mission, making resource management another critical factor to consider. So, plan your loadout carefully before each drop!
Moreover, mastering stratagems isn't just about knowing the input codes; it's about understanding their effective range, cooldown times, and potential impact on the battlefield. A well-timed airstrike can wipe out an enemy encampment, while a poorly placed one could take out your entire squad. Similarly, a supply drop can replenish your ammunition and grenades, but calling it in the middle of a firefight could leave you vulnerable to enemy attacks. The depth and nuance of stratagem usage are what make Helldivers 1 such a rewarding and replayable experience.
Offensive Stratagems
Offensive Stratagems are all about bringing the pain to the enemy. These are your heavy hitters, designed to clear out large groups of enemies or take down heavily armored targets. Let's dive into some of the most effective ones:
Airstrike
The Airstrike is a classic for a reason. Input the code, toss the beacon, and watch as a volley of bombs rains down on your enemies. It's fantastic for clearing out bug nests or taking down cyborg fortifications. Just be sure to stand clear of the blast radius, because friendly fire is definitely a thing in Helldivers!
The Airstrike is particularly effective against stationary targets or areas where enemies are heavily concentrated. However, it has a relatively long cooldown, so you need to use it judiciously. Coordinate with your team to ensure that your airstrike hits the intended target and doesn't endanger any allies. Remember, too, that the airstrike's effectiveness can be affected by terrain and weather conditions. In dense forests or during heavy storms, the accuracy of the airstrike may be reduced, so plan accordingly.
Orbital Barrage
Need to level an entire area? The Orbital Barrage is your go-to stratagem. This one calls in a devastating orbital bombardment that can wipe out anything in its path. It's perfect for dealing with heavily defended objectives or large clusters of enemies. Just be warned: the area of effect is massive, so make sure everyone is well clear before calling it in!
The Orbital Barrage is especially useful against heavily armored enemies that are resistant to conventional weapons. Its high explosive power can penetrate even the thickest armor, making it an invaluable asset in challenging missions. However, like the airstrike, the orbital barrage has a long cooldown and can easily lead to friendly fire incidents if not used carefully. Communication and coordination are key to maximizing the effectiveness of this stratagem.
Strafing Run
For a more targeted approach, the Strafing Run is an excellent choice. This stratagem calls in a fighter plane to strafe an area with machine gun fire. It's great for dealing with fast-moving enemies or providing cover fire while your team advances. The Strafing Run is also quite effective against lightly armored targets.
The Strafing Run stands out for its ability to cover a wide area with sustained fire, making it ideal for suppressing enemy movements and providing a window of opportunity for your team to advance. Unlike the airstrike or orbital barrage, the strafing run has a shorter cooldown, allowing you to use it more frequently. However, it is less effective against heavily armored targets and can be disrupted by terrain or weather conditions. Using the strafing run in conjunction with other offensive stratagems can create a powerful combination that overwhelms the enemy's defenses.
Napalm Strike
Want to set the world on fire? The Napalm Strike does exactly that. It blankets an area in burning napalm, creating a fiery barrier that can incinerate enemies and deny them access to certain areas. It's perfect for controlling chokepoints or creating a diversion. Again, watch out for friendly fire – nobody wants to be roasted alive!
The Napalm Strike is particularly effective against swarming enemies, such as the Terminids, as it can quickly eliminate large groups of them. The burning napalm creates a persistent area of denial, preventing enemies from advancing and allowing your team to reposition or regroup. However, the napalm strike can also be a double-edged sword, as it can block your own team's movement and potentially set them on fire. Careful placement and communication are crucial to avoid friendly fire incidents.
Defensive Stratagems
Defensive Stratagems are all about protecting yourself and your team from enemy attacks. These tools provide cover, support, and crowd control, allowing you to weather even the fiercest assaults:
Static Field Conductors
Need to slow down the enemy? The Static Field Conductors create an area that slows down enemies, making them easier to target and kill. It's great for defending objectives or creating a safe zone for your team. Just be careful not to get caught in the field yourself, because it affects everyone!
The Static Field Conductors excel at controlling the flow of battle by slowing down enemy advances. This can be particularly useful when defending a fixed position or protecting a vulnerable objective. The slowed movement speed makes it easier to target enemies, allowing your team to focus their fire and eliminate threats more effectively. However, the static field affects both enemies and allies, so careful placement is essential to avoid hindering your own team's movement. Coordinating with your team to maximize the benefits of the static field while minimizing its drawbacks can significantly improve your defensive capabilities.
Tesla Tower
The Tesla Tower is your electric defense system. This stratagem deploys a tower that emits powerful electric shocks, frying any enemies that get too close. It's perfect for creating a defensive perimeter or protecting a vulnerable area. Just make sure to keep your distance, or you might end up getting zapped!
The Tesla Tower provides a reliable and automated defense against approaching enemies. Its electric shocks can quickly eliminate lightly armored targets and disrupt the movements of larger foes. The tower can be strategically placed to cover chokepoints or protect vulnerable areas, providing a constant source of defense. However, the Tesla Tower has a limited range and can be vulnerable to enemy fire, so it's important to protect it with other defensive measures or place it in a well-defended location. Using the Tesla Tower in conjunction with other defensive stratagems can create a formidable defensive line that can withstand even the most relentless enemy assaults.
Shield Generator Pack
For personal defense, the Shield Generator Pack is an excellent choice. This backpack provides you with a personal energy shield that can absorb incoming damage. It's great for staying alive in intense firefights or pushing through enemy lines. The shield can only take so much damage, so don't get too cocky!
The Shield Generator Pack offers a significant boost to your survivability, allowing you to withstand more enemy fire and remain in the fight longer. The personal energy shield can absorb a substantial amount of damage, providing valuable protection against projectiles and explosions. This stratagem is particularly useful for frontline combatants who need to stay in the thick of the battle. However, the shield has a limited capacity and can be depleted quickly under heavy fire, so it's important to use it strategically and avoid unnecessary risks. Combining the Shield Generator Pack with other defensive measures, such as cover and tactical positioning, can maximize its effectiveness and keep you alive in even the most challenging combat scenarios.
Support Stratagems
Support Stratagems are all about helping your team stay in the fight. These tools provide ammunition, health, and other vital resources, ensuring that everyone is well-equipped and ready to take on the enemy:
Resupply
Running low on ammo? The Resupply stratagem drops a supply pod filled with ammunition and grenades for you and your team. It's essential for long missions or when you're facing a lot of enemies. Just be careful where you call it in, because the pod can crush you if you're not careful!
The Resupply stratagem is a critical resource for maintaining combat effectiveness during extended missions. The supply pod contains ammunition, grenades, and other essential items that can replenish your team's supplies and keep them in the fight. Calling in a resupply at the right time can prevent your team from running out of ammunition and being overwhelmed by the enemy. However, the resupply pod can be dangerous if it lands on top of you or your teammates, so it's important to call it in a safe location. Communicating with your team and coordinating the resupply drop can ensure that everyone gets the resources they need without risking their lives.
Jump Pack
The Jump Pack allows you to leap over obstacles and quickly reposition yourself on the battlefield. It's great for escaping from dangerous situations or reaching high ground. Just be careful not to jump into a group of enemies!
The Jump Pack provides unparalleled mobility, allowing you to quickly traverse the battlefield and reach advantageous positions. This can be particularly useful for flanking enemies, escaping from dangerous situations, or reaching objectives that are otherwise inaccessible. The Jump Pack also allows you to avoid ground-based hazards and navigate through difficult terrain. However, using the Jump Pack requires careful timing and coordination, as you can be vulnerable while in the air. Mastering the use of the Jump Pack can significantly enhance your tactical flexibility and allow you to outmaneuver the enemy.
Medic
Need a heal? The Medic stratagem calls in a medic to heal you and your teammates. It's essential for staying alive in prolonged engagements or when you're taking a lot of damage. Stay close to the medic to receive the healing benefits!
The Medic stratagem is a vital support tool for maintaining your team's health and survivability. The medic can quickly heal injuries and restore health, allowing your team to withstand more damage and remain in the fight longer. This is particularly useful during intense firefights or when facing enemies that inflict heavy damage. Staying close to the medic ensures that you receive the healing benefits and can continue to contribute to the mission. However, the medic is vulnerable to enemy fire and must be protected by the rest of the team. Coordinating with your team to provide cover for the medic can ensure that they can effectively heal and support the team.
Vehicle Stratagems
Vehicle Stratagems let you call in armored vehicles to wreak havoc on the battlefield. These vehicles provide heavy firepower and protection, allowing you to take on even the toughest enemies:
Exo Suit
The Exo Suit is a walking tank. This stratagem calls in a heavily armored suit equipped with machine guns and rocket launchers. It's perfect for mowing down enemies and taking on heavily defended objectives. Just be careful not to get swarmed, because the suit can be vulnerable to close-range attacks!
The Exo Suit provides unmatched firepower and protection, allowing you to dominate the battlefield. The suit's heavy armor can withstand a significant amount of damage, and its machine guns and rocket launchers can quickly eliminate enemies. This stratagem is particularly useful for clearing out heavily defended areas or engaging large groups of enemies. However, the Exo Suit is slow and cumbersome, making it vulnerable to close-range attacks and flanking maneuvers. Coordinating with your team to provide support and cover can maximize the effectiveness of the Exo Suit and ensure that it remains a formidable force on the battlefield.
APC
The APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) provides mobile cover and transport for your team. It's great for quickly moving troops across the battlefield or providing a safe haven during intense firefights. The APC is armed with a machine gun for suppressing enemies.
The APC offers mobile cover and transport, allowing your team to quickly reposition and reinforce strategic locations. The APC's armored hull provides protection against enemy fire, and its machine gun can suppress enemy movements. This stratagem is particularly useful for quickly traversing open areas or providing a safe haven during intense firefights. However, the APC is vulnerable to heavy weapons and can be disabled by concentrated fire. Coordinating with your team to provide support and cover can maximize the effectiveness of the APC and ensure that it remains a valuable asset on the battlefield.
Tips and Tricks for Stratagem Mastery
- Memorize the Codes: Knowing the input codes for your favorite stratagems is crucial for quick and efficient deployment.
- Communicate with Your Team: Coordinate your stratagem usage with your teammates to maximize effectiveness and avoid friendly fire.
- Adapt to the Situation: Choose your stratagems based on the mission objectives, enemy types, and terrain.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Experiment with different stratagems and practice using them in various combat situations.
By mastering the use of stratagems, you'll be well on your way to becoming a legendary Helldiver! So gear up, dive in, and spread some managed democracy!