09-05-2025, 04:16 AM
The Helldivers 2 Best Guns for Fighting the Illuminate (2025 Guide) is a must-read for players struggling against this highly advanced faction. Unlike the Automatons or Terminids, the Illuminate are a different kind of nightmare—relying on energy weapons, shields, and mobility to overwhelm squads. Choosing the right weapons makes the difference between a flawless drop and a frustrating squad wipe.
Understanding the Illuminate Threat
Before diving into specific weapons, it’s important to understand what makes the Illuminate dangerous. Their units rely heavily on energy shields and precision attacks. Many of their troops can absorb punishment that would shred other factions, while their teleportation and floating combat units make them hard to pin down. This means high burst damage, armor-piercing potential, and accuracy are key factors when choosing your loadout.
Best Primary Weapons
LAS-98 Laser Rifle
When it comes to sustained fire against shielded enemies, the LAS-98 shines. It deals consistent energy damage and bypasses certain defensive layers, making it an excellent option against Illuminate infantry. Its infinite ammo (with only heat management) also helps in longer missions.
JAR-5 Dominator
This rifle delivers heavy single-shot damage that cuts through shields with ease. It’s slower than other rifles, but if you time your shots carefully, it can drop most Illuminate troops before they get close enough to be a threat.
AR-23P Liberator Penetrator
A classic with a twist—the penetrator variant of the Liberator is especially effective against shielded targets. Its armor-piercing rounds mean Illuminate elites won’t last long if you keep up the pressure.
Best Secondary and Support Options
P-19 Redeemer
This sidearm is perfect for emergencies. With its insane rate of fire, the Redeemer can clear out swarms of smaller Illuminate drones or finish off a weakened elite when your primary is on cooldown or overheated.
Railgun
A staple in many squads, the Railgun is a powerful tool against heavily shielded units. Charged shots can tear through even the toughest Illuminate constructs, making it a reliable support option.
Arc Thrower
Risky but rewarding, the Arc Thrower deals massive chain damage. Since Illuminate often group together, a skilled user can wipe entire squads in seconds. Just be mindful of friendly fire.
Stratagem Weapons That Shine
The Helldivers 2 Best Guns for Fighting the Illuminate (2025 Guide) highlights a simple truth: success depends on preparation. Unlike fighting Terminids or Automatons, Illuminate combat demands precision and adaptability. Weapons that can bypass shields, deliver strong burst damage, and handle mobility will always be top-tier choices. Squad coordination, combined with the right arsenal, ensures your drops end in victory rather than retreat.
Understanding the Illuminate Threat
Before diving into specific weapons, it’s important to understand what makes the Illuminate dangerous. Their units rely heavily on energy shields and precision attacks. Many of their troops can absorb punishment that would shred other factions, while their teleportation and floating combat units make them hard to pin down. This means high burst damage, armor-piercing potential, and accuracy are key factors when choosing your loadout.
Best Primary Weapons
LAS-98 Laser Rifle
When it comes to sustained fire against shielded enemies, the LAS-98 shines. It deals consistent energy damage and bypasses certain defensive layers, making it an excellent option against Illuminate infantry. Its infinite ammo (with only heat management) also helps in longer missions.
JAR-5 Dominator
This rifle delivers heavy single-shot damage that cuts through shields with ease. It’s slower than other rifles, but if you time your shots carefully, it can drop most Illuminate troops before they get close enough to be a threat.
AR-23P Liberator Penetrator
A classic with a twist—the penetrator variant of the Liberator is especially effective against shielded targets. Its armor-piercing rounds mean Illuminate elites won’t last long if you keep up the pressure.
Best Secondary and Support Options
P-19 Redeemer
This sidearm is perfect for emergencies. With its insane rate of fire, the Redeemer can clear out swarms of smaller Illuminate drones or finish off a weakened elite when your primary is on cooldown or overheated.
Railgun
A staple in many squads, the Railgun is a powerful tool against heavily shielded units. Charged shots can tear through even the toughest Illuminate constructs, making it a reliable support option.
Arc Thrower
Risky but rewarding, the Arc Thrower deals massive chain damage. Since Illuminate often group together, a skilled user can wipe entire squads in seconds. Just be mindful of friendly fire.
Stratagem Weapons That Shine
- EAT-17: A great anti-armor option when Illuminate mechs appear.
- Autocannon: Provides both crowd control and heavy burst damage.
- Orbital Laser: Against clustered Illuminate patrols, this stratagem can instantly shift the tide of battle.
The Helldivers 2 Best Guns for Fighting the Illuminate (2025 Guide) highlights a simple truth: success depends on preparation. Unlike fighting Terminids or Automatons, Illuminate combat demands precision and adaptability. Weapons that can bypass shields, deliver strong burst damage, and handle mobility will always be top-tier choices. Squad coordination, combined with the right arsenal, ensures your drops end in victory rather than retreat.