Helldivers 1 Stratagems: A Complete Guide
Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Ready to dive back into the chaotic world of Helldivers 1? One of the most exciting aspects of this game is the strategic deployment of stratagems. These powerful tools can turn the tide of battle, whether you're calling in an airstrike, deploying a mech, or reinforcing your squad. So, let's dive deep into everything you need to know about Helldivers 1 stratagems.
What are Stratagems in Helldivers 1?
In Helldivers 1, stratagems are special abilities or equipment that players can call in during missions to aid them in combat. Think of them as your lifeline when things get tough – and trust me, they will get tough! Stratagems range from offensive options like airstrikes and turrets to support abilities like supply drops and defensive shields. Learning how to use them effectively is crucial for success in Helldivers 1. Each stratagem is activated by inputting a specific sequence of directional commands (think Up, Down, Left, Right), and once activated, the stratagem is called in, delivering its payload or effect to the battlefield. Mastering the stratagem codes is key to becoming a proficient Helldiver and ensuring you can quickly respond to any threat the alien hordes throw your way. Effective use of stratagems not only enhances your combat capabilities but also adds a layer of tactical depth to the gameplay, making each mission a unique and engaging experience. So, gear up, memorize those codes, and get ready to unleash some serious firepower!
How to Unlock Stratagems
Unlocking stratagems in Helldivers 1 is a rewarding process that encourages exploration and strategic investment. You earn stratagems by spending research points, which you acquire by completing missions and earning experience. As you level up, new stratagems become available for purchase at the Ship Management terminal. This is where you'll spend those hard-earned research points to expand your arsenal. Prioritize unlocking stratagems that complement your play style and your team's needs. For example, if you enjoy playing a support role, focus on unlocking supply drops, static fields, and shield generators. If you prefer a more aggressive approach, consider investing in offensive stratagems like airstrikes, heavy weapons, and mech suits. Don't forget to pay attention to the upgrade paths for each stratagem as well. Many stratagems can be upgraded to enhance their effectiveness, such as increasing the number of uses, reducing cooldown times, or improving their area of effect. Strategic allocation of your research points is crucial for building a versatile and powerful loadout that can handle any situation. Also, keep an eye out for special events or challenges that may offer bonus research points or exclusive stratagems as rewards. So, get out there, complete those missions, and start unlocking the stratagems that will help you spread managed democracy across the galaxy!
Essential Stratagems for Beginners
Alright, rookies, let's talk about some essential stratagems that every beginner in Helldivers 1 should get their hands on. These will give you a solid foundation and help you survive those early missions. First up is the Reinforce stratagem (Up, Down, Right, Left, Up). This one's a no-brainer because it allows you to call in reinforcements when a teammate falls in battle. Staying alive and keeping your squad at full strength is paramount, especially when you're just starting. Next, consider the MG-94 Machine Gun (Down, Left, Right, Up, Down). This heavy weapon provides excellent sustained fire, perfect for mowing down hordes of enemies. It's a great option when you need to clear out a bug breach or suppress a group of Cyborg infantry. Another essential stratagem is the Supply Drop (Down, Down, Up, Up, Right). Running out of ammo is a death sentence in Helldivers 1, so having a reliable source of resupply is crucial. The Supply Drop provides a quick and easy way to replenish your ammunition and grenades, ensuring you can keep fighting without interruption. Lastly, don't overlook the Static Field Conductors (Right, Up, Left, Down, Right). These defensive structures can slow down enemies and provide valuable cover for your team. They're particularly effective against melee-focused enemies like the Bugs, giving you time to reposition and eliminate threats. By prioritizing these essential stratagems, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of Helldivers 1 and contribute effectively to your squad. Remember to practice your stratagem codes and learn how to deploy them quickly in the heat of battle. Good luck out there, Helldivers!
Offensive Stratagems: Unleash the Firepower
When it comes to offensive stratagems in Helldivers 1, you've got a plethora of options to choose from, each designed to bring the pain to the enemies of Super Earth. These stratagems are all about dealing massive damage, clearing out hordes, and turning the tide of battle with overwhelming firepower. One of the most iconic offensive stratagems is the Eagle Stratagem. The Eagle Airstrike (Up, Right, Down, Left, Up) is a classic choice for delivering a concentrated burst of explosive devastation. It's perfect for clearing out heavily fortified positions or wiping out large groups of enemies. Just be careful not to get caught in the blast radius! For those who prefer a more direct approach, the Recoilless Rifle (Down, Left, Right, Down, Up) is an excellent choice. This shoulder-mounted weapon packs a serious punch and can take down heavily armored targets with ease. It requires a bit of skill to aim and fire accurately, but the payoff is well worth it. Another powerful offensive stratagem is the Orbital Laser (Up, Down, Left, Right, Down). This devastating weapon calls in a laser strike from orbit, incinerating everything in its path. It's great for dealing with heavily armored targets or clearing out large areas. Just be mindful of the cooldown time, as it takes a while to recharge. The Napalm Strike (Right, Up, Down, Down, Right) is another great option. This one blankets an area in burning napalm, dealing continuous damage to enemies caught in the flames. It's particularly effective against the Bugs, who are vulnerable to fire. Don't forget the Walking Barrage (Up, Right, Down, Left, Left). This stratagem unleashes a barrage of artillery shells across the battlefield, creating a deadly zone of destruction. It's perfect for suppressing enemy positions or clearing out entrenched targets. Experiment with different combinations of offensive stratagems to find what works best for your play style and your team's needs. Whether you prefer explosive airstrikes, precision weaponry, or devastating orbital bombardments, there's an offensive stratagem out there for every Helldiver. So, load up, lock and load, and get ready to unleash the firepower!
Defensive Stratagems: Fortify Your Position
In the chaotic battlefields of Helldivers 1, sometimes the best offense is a good defense. Defensive stratagems are essential for fortifying your position, protecting your team, and controlling the flow of combat. These tools can buy you valuable time to regroup, resupply, and plan your next move. One of the most versatile defensive stratagems is the Shield Generator Pack (Up, Left, Down, Right, Up). This backpack provides a personal energy shield that can absorb a significant amount of damage, protecting you from incoming fire and melee attacks. It's particularly useful when facing heavily armed enemies or navigating dangerous terrain. Another essential defensive stratagem is the Tesla Tower (Down, Up, Right, Left, Right). This defensive structure emits a powerful electric field that can zap nearby enemies, stunning them and dealing damage over time. It's great for creating chokepoints or defending key objectives. The Barbed Wire Fence (Left, Down, Right, Up, Left) is another useful defensive tool. These fences can slow down enemies and provide a physical barrier to protect your team. They're particularly effective against melee-focused enemies like the Bugs, giving you time to eliminate threats. Don't forget the Distractor Beacon (Down, Up, Up, Left, Right). This sneaky device emits a signal that attracts enemies to its location, diverting their attention away from your team. It's great for creating diversions or luring enemies into traps. Lastly, the Incendiary Mines (Left, Right, Down, Down, Left) can be used to create hazardous zones that damage and slow down enemies. These mines are perfect for defending chokepoints or creating a fiery gauntlet for enemies to navigate. By strategically deploying defensive stratagems, you can create a formidable defensive perimeter that protects your team and controls the battlefield. Whether you prefer personal shields, electric fences, or distraction devices, there's a defensive stratagem out there for every Helldiver. So, fortify your position, stay vigilant, and prepare to weather the storm!
Support Stratagems: Keeping the Team Alive
In Helldivers 1, support stratagems are the unsung heroes of any successful mission. These tools focus on keeping your team alive, resupplied, and in fighting shape. Whether it's providing ammo, healing injuries, or deploying tactical assets, support stratagems are essential for maintaining combat effectiveness and ensuring the mission's success. One of the most crucial support stratagems is the Resupply (Down, Down, Up, Up, Right). This stratagem calls in a supply pod containing ammunition, grenades, and stims, replenishing your team's resources and keeping them in the fight. Running out of ammo is a death sentence in Helldivers 1, so having a reliable source of resupply is paramount. Another essential support stratagem is the Medical Drone (Right, Left, Down, Up, Right). This handy device follows you around and automatically heals injuries, keeping you and your teammates alive and kicking. It's particularly useful when facing enemies that inflict status effects like poison or bleeding. For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, the Guard Dog (Left, Up, Right, Down, Left) is an excellent choice. This robotic companion follows you around and provides additional firepower, helping to suppress enemies and protect your flanks. It's like having an extra teammate by your side. Don't forget the Ammo Drop (Down, Down, Up, Up, Right). When your team is running low on ammunition, this stratagem can be a lifesaver. It calls in a supply pod containing extra ammo for your primary and secondary weapons, ensuring you can keep fighting without interruption. Lastly, the Smoke Grenade (Up, Down, Left, Right, Up) can be used to create a cloud of smoke that obscures vision, providing cover for your team to reposition, resupply, or escape from danger. It's particularly useful when facing enemies with ranged attacks. By strategically deploying support stratagems, you can keep your team alive, resupplied, and in fighting shape, ensuring the mission's success. Whether you prefer healing drones, robotic companions, or smoke grenades, there's a support stratagem out there for every Helldiver. So, support your team, stay vigilant, and prepare to spread managed democracy across the galaxy!
Mastering Stratagem Combinations
Alright, Helldivers, let's talk about taking your stratagem game to the next level! It's not just about using individual stratagems effectively; it's about mastering the art of combining them to create devastating synergies. When you start chaining stratagems together, that's when you truly become a force to be reckoned with. For example, try combining a Distractor Beacon (Down, Up, Up, Left, Right) with a Napalm Strike (Right, Up, Down, Down, Right). Toss the beacon to lure enemies into a concentrated area, then blanket the area with burning napalm. The enemies will be drawn to the beacon and then get roasted. Another effective combo is using Static Field Conductors (Right, Up, Left, Down, Right) to slow down enemies, followed by an Eagle Airstrike (Up, Right, Down, Left, Up) to obliterate them while they're trapped. The static field ensures that the enemies stay put, maximizing the effectiveness of the airstrike. If you're facing heavily armored enemies, try using a Stun Grenade (Left, Right, Up, Down, Left) to immobilize them, followed by a Recoilless Rifle (Down, Left, Right, Down, Up) shot to the weak spot. The stun grenade buys you valuable time to line up your shot and deliver a critical hit. Don't underestimate the power of combining defensive and offensive stratagems. For example, you can deploy a Shield Generator Pack (Up, Left, Down, Right, Up) to protect yourself while you call in an Orbital Laser (Up, Down, Left, Right, Down) strike. The shield will keep you safe from incoming fire while the laser obliterates everything in its path. Remember to experiment with different combinations of stratagems to find what works best for your play style and your team's needs. Pay attention to the cooldown times of each stratagem and plan your sequences accordingly. Communication is key when coordinating stratagem combinations with your teammates. Make sure everyone knows what you're planning to do so they can support you effectively. By mastering stratagem combinations, you'll be able to handle any situation that Helldivers 1 throws your way. So, get out there, experiment, and start creating some devastating synergies!
Conclusion
So there you have it, guys – a comprehensive guide to Helldivers 1 stratagems! From understanding what stratagems are and how to unlock them, to mastering essential, offensive, defensive, and support stratagems, you're now well-equipped to tackle the challenges of this awesome game. Remember, mastering stratagems is not just about memorizing codes; it's about understanding when and how to use them effectively. Experiment with different combinations, coordinate with your teammates, and adapt your strategy to the situation at hand. Helldivers 1 is a game that rewards teamwork, strategic thinking, and a willingness to adapt. By mastering the art of stratagem deployment, you'll not only increase your chances of survival but also become a valuable asset to your squad. Now go out there and spread some managed democracy, one stratagem at a time! Good luck, and see you on the battlefield, Helldivers! Remember to always check back for more tips, tricks, and strategies to dominate the galaxy.