Helldivers 1 Stratagems: A Complete Guide

Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Ready to dive back into the chaotic, bug-squashing, and democracy-spreading world of the original Helldivers? One of the key elements that made the game so addictive was the strategic use of stratagems. These powerful tools can turn the tide of battle, whether you're facing hordes of Terminids, the cybernetic might of the Cyborgs, or the sneaky tactics of the Illuminate. Let's dive deep into the stratagems of Helldivers 1, exploring their uses, combinations, and how they can help you liberate planets like a true hero.

Understanding Stratagems

So, what exactly are stratagems? In Helldivers 1, stratagems are special abilities or equipment that you can call in during a mission. They range from support weapons and offensive airstrikes to defensive structures and even vehicles. Each stratagem requires a specific input code, a sequence of directional commands that you input using the D-pad on your controller or the corresponding keys on your keyboard. Mastering these codes is crucial because, in the heat of battle, fumbling with the inputs can mean the difference between victory and a swift, embarrassing death. Timing is everything, and knowing when and where to deploy each stratagem is key to success.

Why are stratagems so vital? Well, in Helldivers 1, you're often outnumbered and outgunned. The enemies are relentless, and the environments are unforgiving. Stratagems provide the necessary firepower, support, and tactical advantages to overcome these challenges. Whether you need a quick burst of heavy weaponry to clear a bug breach or a well-placed defensive perimeter to hold off an advancing Cyborg patrol, stratagems offer the solutions you need. Think of them as your lifeline, your trump card, and your best friend in a world determined to see you fail – repeatedly.

But it's not just about having stratagems; it's about using them effectively. This means understanding their strengths and weaknesses, coordinating with your teammates, and adapting to the ever-changing battlefield conditions. Are you facing a heavily armored enemy? Bring in some anti-tank weaponry. Getting swarmed by smaller foes? An airstrike might be just what you need. The key is to be versatile and prepared for anything. And remember, friendly fire is always on, so make sure you communicate with your squad before calling in that devastating orbital strike!

Essential Stratagems for Every Helldiver

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some essential stratagems that every Helldiver should have in their arsenal. These are the bread-and-butter options that will serve you well in a variety of situations.

Resupply

First up, the Resupply stratagem. This one is non-negotiable. Running out of ammo in Helldivers 1 is a death sentence, and the Resupply stratagem ensures that you and your team can keep your weapons firing. Input the code, throw down the beacon, and a fresh supply of ammo and grenades will drop from the sky. It’s simple, effective, and absolutely essential for any prolonged engagement. Don't leave home without it!

Machine Gun Turret

Next, we have the Machine Gun Turret. This defensive stratagem deploys a stationary turret that automatically targets and eliminates nearby enemies. It's perfect for holding down a position, defending an objective, or providing covering fire while you and your team advance. The turret has a limited ammo supply, so be sure to place it strategically and protect it from enemy fire. A well-placed Machine Gun Turret can be a game-changer, especially when dealing with hordes of smaller enemies.

Railcannon Strike

For dealing with heavily armored targets, the Railcannon Strike is your best friend. This stratagem calls in a powerful orbital strike that fires a single, high-velocity projectile at the designated target. It's incredibly effective against tanks, heavily armored Cyborgs, and even the tougher Terminid bugs. The Railcannon Strike has a long cooldown, so use it wisely. Make sure you have a clear line of sight to your target and communicate with your team to ensure that you don't accidentally destroy any friendly assets. This one is a real lifesaver when things get tough.

Strafing Run

When you need to clear out a large group of enemies quickly, the Strafing Run is the way to go. This stratagem calls in a fighter plane that strafes the designated area with machine gun fire. It's great for clearing out hordes of smaller enemies, suppressing enemy fire, or creating a path for your team to advance. The Strafing Run is relatively quick to deploy and has a short cooldown, making it a versatile option for a variety of situations. Just be careful not to get caught in the line of fire – those bullets don't discriminate!

Anti-Personnel Barrier

Need some quick cover? The Anti-Personnel Barrier provides a temporary shield that can protect you and your team from enemy fire. It's perfect for setting up a defensive perimeter, providing cover while you reload, or creating a safe zone to revive fallen teammates. The barrier can be destroyed by enemy fire, so don't rely on it for too long. But in a pinch, it can be a real lifesaver.

Advanced Stratagem Combinations

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about some advanced stratagem combinations. These are the strategies that will take your Helldivers game to the next level. By combining different stratagems, you can create powerful synergies that will help you overcome even the toughest challenges.

The Defensive Fortress

This strategy focuses on creating a heavily fortified defensive position. Start by deploying a Machine Gun Turret to provide covering fire. Then, set up an Anti-Personnel Barrier to create a protected zone. Finally, call in a Static Field Conductors to slow down any enemies that try to approach. This combination creates a formidable defensive line that can withstand even the most determined assaults. It's perfect for defending objectives or holding down a position while you complete a mission.

The Shock and Awe

This strategy is all about overwhelming the enemy with a rapid series of attacks. Start by calling in a Strafing Run to clear out any smaller enemies. Then, follow up with a Railcannon Strike to take out any heavily armored targets. Finally, deploy a Tesla Tower to fry any remaining enemies that get too close. This combination is incredibly effective at clearing out large groups of enemies quickly and efficiently. Just be careful not to get caught in the crossfire!

The Medic Support

This strategy focuses on keeping your team alive and healthy. Equip yourself with the Resupply Pack to provide ammo and healing to your teammates. Then, use the Smoke Grenades to provide cover while you revive fallen allies. Finally, call in an Angel Airstrike to heal your entire team. This combination is perfect for supporting your team and keeping them in the fight. It's especially useful in longer missions where attrition can become a major factor.

The Tank Buster

When you're facing a lot of heavily armored enemies, you need a strategy that can take them down quickly. Start by calling in a Railcannon Strike to damage the target. Then, follow up with an EAT-17 to finish the job. Finally, use the Stun Grenades to disable any nearby enemies. This combination is incredibly effective at taking down tanks and other heavily armored targets. Just be sure to communicate with your team and coordinate your attacks to maximize your effectiveness.

Tips and Tricks for Stratagem Mastery

Alright, let's wrap things up with some tips and tricks for mastering stratagems in Helldivers 1. These are the little things that can make a big difference in your gameplay.

• Memorize the Codes: This one is obvious, but it's worth repeating. The faster you can input the stratagem codes, the more effective you'll be in combat. Practice the codes until they become second nature.
• Communicate with Your Team: Coordination is key in Helldivers 1. Talk to your teammates about which stratagems you're bringing and how you plan to use them. This will help you avoid friendly fire and maximize your effectiveness.
• Consider your surroundings before using a stratagem: Make sure that there is nothing on top of the point that you are going to drop the stratagem. If there are trees or if you are inside a cave, then the stratagem will not drop. Also, make sure you are not going to drop your team.
• Pay Attention to the Battlefield: The battlefield is constantly changing in Helldivers 1. Keep an eye on enemy movements, terrain features, and environmental hazards. This will help you make informed decisions about which stratagems to use and where to deploy them.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: There are a lot of different stratagems in Helldivers 1, and each one has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you.
• Use Stratagem Priority: Use stratagem priority to equip 1 extra stratagem. This allows you to bring more offensive stratagems or support stratagems.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to stratagems in Helldivers 1. By understanding how stratagems work, mastering their codes, and coordinating with your team, you can become a true force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Now get out there and spread some managed democracy, one stratagem at a time! Remember, the galaxy depends on you, Helldiver. Good luck, and happy hunting!