If you’ve spent any time in Helldivers 2, you already know it’s more than just point-and-shoot. Real success in this unforgiving galactic war comes down to knowing how to make every item count. Whether you're taking on Terminids, Automatons, or the sheer chaos of higher difficulties, mastering key combat techniques with the right items can turn a disastrous drop into a flawless victory.
In this guide, we’ll break down 25 essential combat techniques that rely on or are enhanced by proper item usage. These are practical tips honed by players who’ve been in the trenches—ideal for both solo divers and squadmates looking to step up their game.
1. Start with Stratagem Timing
Practice calling down Stratagems before you need them. Knowing enemy spawn patterns lets you drop a turret or supply pack just in time to turn the tide.
2. Use the Shield Generator Pack Proactively
Instead of waiting to get hit, activate it before pushing into fortified positions to prevent incoming damage entirely.
3. Suppress, Then Advance
Combine the MG-43 Machine Gun with Stun Grenades to suppress enemies while you reposition or flank.
4. Upgrade with a Purpose
If you're looking to upgrade your loadout, prioritize utility and survivability. Many players choose to buy Helldivers 2 medals to fast-track their access to critical gear.
5. Throw with Intent
Use the Incendiary Grenade not just for damage, but for area denial. Block off chokepoints while your team regroups.
6. Call in the Orbital Laser Early
The Orbital Laser is better used at the start of a major engagement rather than saved—its cooldown and coverage make it a top-tier opening move.
7. Jump Pack Evasion
Use the Jump Pack not just for mobility, but for dodging enemy charges or projectiles.
8. Ammo Crates Are Strategic Tools
Drop them during fights—not just in between. Use them to bait enemies or create temporary safe zones for reloads.
9. Turret Positioning 101
Set up turrets at 90-degree angles to enemy approach paths. Crossfire is your friend—just stay out of its line of sight.
10. Use Smoke Strategically
Deploy Smoke Stratagems to escape encirclements or mask your extractions.
11. Combine Arc Thrower with EMP Grenades
The Arc Thrower stuns perfectly, and with an EMP Grenade tossed beforehand, you’ll disable machines and dominate robotic waves.
12. Don’t Sleep on the Supply Pack
A good Helldiver with a Supply Pack is a game-changer. Coordinate with teammates to resupply without wasting time on crate drops.
13. Helldivers 2 Medals for Sale: A Time Saver
Unlocking the best tools can take time, but if you're short on hours and long on ambition, many players turn to platforms like U4GM, where you can find Helldivers 2 medals for sale to help speed up progression.
14. Control with the Laser Cannon
With teammates holding the front, the Laser Cannon allows you to snipe enemies from afar without ammo concerns.
15. Use Terrain to Your Advantage
Place defensive Stratagems near cliffs, choke points, or narrow canyons for devastating effects.
16. Resupply Before You Need To
Don’t wait until you’re empty—top off after every engagement to maintain momentum.
17. EMP + Orbital Barrage
A nasty combo: toss an EMP, freeze their movement, then follow up with an Orbital Barrage for maximum kills.
18. Bile Titan Buster
To deal with Bile Titans, combine Eagle 110MM Rocket Pods with well-timed Strafing Runs. Softens them up just enough for a kill shot.
19. Armor Is Not Everything
Mobility often trumps heavy armor. Consider lighter suits if you’re playing with a coordinated team.
20. Distraction Beacons Are Underrated
Use them to lure enemies away from objectives or extraction zones. They’re cheap, fast, and wildly effective.
21. Coordinate Your Stratagems
If you're in a group, assign Stratagem roles. One player focuses on defense, another on support, and so on.
22. Reload Discipline
Train yourself to reload only when safe or covered. Getting caught reloading mid-fight is a death sentence.
23. Revive Tactics
Always clear a safe zone before reviving. Drop smoke or a turret to buy time if necessary.
24. Recycle Your Loadout Often
Different missions require different tools. Don’t get too attached to one setup—adaptation is survival.
25. Know When to Buy
There’s no shame in optimizing your time. If you’re looking to expand your arsenal faster, many players simply buy Helldivers 2 medals through platforms like U4GM. It’s a choice that saves grind without skipping the fun.
Whether you're a seasoned trooper or just getting your boots dirty, these 25 techniques should give you a sharper edge in combat. Helldivers 2 rewards planning, item mastery, and smart execution—so take the time to refine your strategy and gear.