Helldivers 2 Stratagems: Codes, Usage, And Best Builds

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Are you ready to dive headfirst into the chaotic, bug-blasting, freedom-fighting world of Helldivers 2? If so, you're in the right place. Today, we're going to break down the essential part of the game: Stratagems. Think of them as your secret arsenal, your go-to tools for raining down hellfire on the Terminids and Automatons that dare to stand in your way. We'll be talking about the codes you need, how to use them, and which ones are going to give you the best chance of survival on the battlefield. Get ready to learn how to call in orbital strikes, deploy devastating weapons, and turn the tide of galactic war. Let's get started, shall we?

What Are Stratagems in Helldivers 2?

Alright, guys, let's get down to brass tacks. Stratagems are basically your special abilities in Helldivers 2. They are the power-ups you use to overcome the challenges. They range from calling in a powerful orbital strike to dropping a sentient robot for you to help in your quest for freedom. You access them by inputting specific button combinations, the famous Stratagem codes, on your Support Weapon terminal, the big, glowing panel on your shoulder. Mastering these codes is absolutely essential if you want to be a successful Helldiver. There's a wide variety to choose from, each with its own specific use, cooldown, and strategic value. Some are geared towards dealing massive damage, while others provide support, like supplying ammo or calling in a defensive shield. Knowing which Stratagems to use and when is a key part of your survival and the success of the mission. When the bug horde comes charging, you'll need the right tools for the job. Do you use an orbital laser to cut them down or maybe call in a supply pod for some ammo? It is up to you.

The Importance of Stratagems

Why are Stratagems so important, you ask? Well, in Helldivers 2, you're often outnumbered and outgunned. The enemy factions, the Terminids and the Automatons, can throw overwhelming forces at you. Stratagems are your way of evening the odds. Think about a giant bug charging towards you. You could try shooting at it, but maybe an orbital strike is the better approach. They allow you to:

Deal Massive Damage: Orbital strikes, Eagle strikes, and powerful weapon deployments can wipe out hordes of enemies or take down heavily armored targets. It can be the difference between a successful mission and being sent back to your ship in pieces.
Provide Support: From calling in extra ammo to deploying defensive shields, support Stratagems can keep you alive and your team going. This can be your best friend when you are on a team.
Control the Battlefield: Stratagems like the EMS Mortar Sentry or the Autocannon Sentry can help you control choke points, making it easier to manage enemy waves.
Adapt to the Situation: With a variety of Stratagems at your disposal, you can adapt your strategy to the specific challenges of each mission and the type of enemies you face. If you are dealing with a swarm of bugs, a high-explosive orbital can be your best friend. Facing off against a heavily armored unit? Call in a railgun to take it down.

Basically, without Stratagems, you're just a soldier with a gun against an intergalactic menace. They are your lifeline, your power, and your key to victory.

How to Use Stratagem Codes

Now, let's talk about the fun part: calling in those Stratagems! Using Stratagem codes is easy to learn but takes a little practice. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Activate the Terminal: Press the designated button to bring up the Stratagem input panel on your back (usually the 'Q' key on PC or the left d-pad on consoles).
Input the Code: Quickly enter the correct button combination for the Stratagem you want to use. Remember, time is critical during a fight. You'll need to memorize the code for your favorite Stratagems and input them quickly under pressure.
Confirm the Input: Once you enter the code, hit the 'call' button to confirm it. Your Helldiver will then call in the Stratagem.

Basic Controls for Stratagem Input

Up: Up Arrow Key or Up on the D-Pad
Down: Down Arrow Key or Down on the D-Pad
Left: Left Arrow Key or Left on the D-Pad
Right: Right Arrow Key or Right on the D-Pad

Tips for Inputting Codes

Practice Makes Perfect: Get familiar with the codes in a safe environment, such as the tutorial or in the early stages of a mission. The more you practice, the faster and more accurate you'll become. Practice by yourself, then practice with your team.
Memorize the Codes: Knowing the codes by heart is crucial. Write them down, repeat them, or use whatever method works best for you to memorize them. Quick inputs can change the tide of war.
Be Quick: Speed is essential, especially when you're under fire. Practice inputting the codes rapidly and accurately. You do not want to fail at putting in the code for the orbital strike, only to get squashed by a charger.
Listen to the Announcer: Your Helldiver will announce the Stratagem, confirming that it's been called in. Listen for the confirmation, but be ready for action!
Understand Cooldowns: Each Stratagem has a cooldown period before it can be used again. Pay attention to the cooldown timer so you don't waste time trying to call in something that's not ready.

Essential Stratagems and Their Codes

Alright, let's dive into some of the most useful Stratagems in Helldivers 2. Knowing these will give you a major advantage on the battlefield. Each one has its own code, so pay close attention!

Offensive Stratagems

These are your big guns, the ones you use to inflict maximum damage and clear out the enemy.

Orbital Strike: This is your basic, high-explosive artillery strike. It's great for clearing out groups of enemies or taking down heavily armored targets.
- Code: Down, Right, Left, Up, Right
Eagle Strafing Run: A fast, low-flying pass by an aircraft, dropping bombs along a line. Good for clearing out waves of enemies.
- Code: Up, Right, Right, Down, Right
500KG Bomb: This is a massive bomb that will level a large area. Use it to wipe out high-value targets or clear out a heavily defended position.
- Code: Down, Down, Up, Down, Up
Railgun: This is a powerful anti-armor weapon. It's great for taking down the biggest threats on the battlefield.
- Code: Down, Up, Left, Down, Up, Right

Support Stratagems

These will help you in your quest for freedom.

Resupply: This calls in a supply pod that provides ammo, grenades, and stims.
- Code: Down, Down, Up, Down, Up
Shield Generator Pack: A personal energy shield that protects you from damage.
- Code: Down, Up, Right, Left, Right
Guard Dog Rover: Deploys a rover that hovers above your shoulder, firing at enemies. Great for providing extra firepower and for taking the heat off of you.
- Code: Down, Left, Up, Up, Right
Supply Pack: Provides additional ammunition.
- Code: Down, Left, Down, Up, Up

Defensive Stratagems

These are useful to control the map and defend your position.

Mortar Sentry: This calls in a stationary mortar that automatically targets and fires at enemies. Very useful for defending a location.
- Code: Down, Left, Down, Left, Down
Autocannon Sentry: This calls in a sentry gun that fires rapid bursts of ammunition. Effective against infantry and light vehicles.
- Code: Right, Down, Left, Up, Up
Tesla Tower: Deploys a tower that emits electricity, electrocuting enemies in the area. Great for crowd control.
- Code: Down, Up, Right, Left, Down

Note: These codes are accurate as of the current game version, but always double-check the in-game menu, as they can sometimes change with updates.

Best Builds and Loadouts Using Stratagems

Alright, let’s talk about how to put all of these tools together to build a strong loadout. Having the right Stratagems is only half the battle; you also need to combine them with the right weapons, armor, and playstyle to be truly effective. The best builds will vary depending on your playstyle, the mission type, and the enemy faction you're facing. But we can cover some general strategies to get you started. When selecting your loadout, consider the following:

Offensive Power: Choose Stratagems and weapons that provide a good balance of damage, range, and area-of-effect. For example, the Railgun is awesome at taking out armored units, while the Eagle Strafing Run is great for clearing out crowds.
Support and Utility: Consider carrying support Stratagems like the Supply Pack or Shield Generator Pack. Also, consider the use of sentry guns. These can keep you alive and give you additional advantages.
Mobility: Choose equipment that allows you to move quickly and avoid enemy attacks. This can be the difference between life and death. You need to keep on your toes and constantly be moving to stay alive.

Recommended Loadout Examples

Here are some sample builds to get you started:

The All-Arounder:

Primary Weapon: Liberator (Good all-around assault rifle)
Secondary Weapon: Grenade Pistol (For crowd control)
Armor: Medium Armor (Good balance of protection and mobility)
Grenade: Impact Grenade (For quick damage)
Stratagems: Eagle Strafing Run, Orbital Precision Strike, Supply Pack, Autocannon Sentry

This build provides a good balance of offense and support. The Liberator is a reliable primary weapon, while the Orbital Precision Strike and Eagle Strafing Run will allow you to clear out groups of enemies. The Autocannon Sentry provides extra firepower, and the Supply Pack keeps you stocked with ammo. This is a very good build to start your Helldivers 2 journey.

The Anti-Armor Specialist:

Primary Weapon: Breaker (Powerful shotgun for close-range combat)
Secondary Weapon: Machine Pistol (For backup)
Armor: Heavy Armor (Maximum protection)
Grenade: Anti-Tank Grenade (For taking down armored targets)
Stratagems: Railgun, 500KG Bomb, Orbital Laser, Shield Generator Pack

This build is designed to take on heavily armored enemies. The Breaker and Railgun provide powerful anti-armor capabilities, while the 500KG Bomb and Orbital Laser can wipe out a group of enemies. The Shield Generator Pack keeps you alive during firefights. If you are struggling to take down the bigger enemies, you will want to consider this build.

The Support and Crowd Control:

Primary Weapon: Diligence (Good all-around assault rifle)
Secondary Weapon: Grenade Pistol (For crowd control)
Armor: Light Armor (For maximum mobility)
Grenade: Smoke Grenade (For creating cover)
Stratagems: Mortar Sentry, Tesla Tower, Resupply, Guard Dog Rover

This build focuses on supporting your team and controlling the battlefield. The Mortar Sentry and Tesla Tower provide defensive capabilities, while the Guard Dog Rover and Resupply offer additional support. Light armor helps you stay mobile. This is a great build for people who like to support the team rather than be the hero.

Advanced Tips and Strategies

Okay, guys, you've got the basics down, but to truly master the art of Helldivers 2, you need some advanced strategies. Here are some tips to take your gameplay to the next level:

Coordinate with Your Team: This is probably the most important piece of advice. Communicate with your squad about what Stratagems you're bringing, what objectives you're focusing on, and how you can best support each other. Coordinate your Stratagems to maximize their effectiveness. A well-timed Orbital Strike combined with an Eagle Strike can wipe out a huge wave of enemies.
Know Your Enemy: Different enemies have different weaknesses. Learn what each enemy is vulnerable to and choose your Stratagems accordingly. For example, armored units are weak to the Railgun and 500KG Bomb. Swarms of smaller enemies can be easily dealt with using the Eagle Strafing Run or the Tesla Tower.
Manage Your Cooldowns: Keep track of your Stratagem cooldowns. Avoid wasting them. Do not call in an orbital strike when the enemies are all already dead.
Use Cover: While Helldivers 2 is all about running and gunning, using cover can significantly increase your survivability. Duck behind rocks, buildings, and other obstacles to avoid enemy fire.
Don't Be Afraid to Retreat: Sometimes, the best strategy is to disengage and reposition. If you're overwhelmed, fall back, regroup, and plan your next move.
Experiment and Adapt: Don't be afraid to try out different Stratagems and loadouts. Experimenting will help you find what works best for your playstyle and the specific challenges you face. Be adaptable and willing to change your strategy on the fly.

Conclusion: Become a Stratagem Master!

Alright, Helldivers, you've now got the knowledge you need to master Stratagems in Helldivers 2. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you play, the better you'll get at calling in those codes and dominating the battlefield. Now go forth, spread democracy, and show those bugs and bots what you're made of! The galaxy is counting on you!