Helldivers 2: Taking On The Illuminate With The Negotiator
Alright, Helldivers 2 players, buckle up! You know those pesky Illuminate? The ones with the annoying shields and the ability to teleport all over the place? Well, let's talk about how to deal with them, specifically, how the Negotiator shines in this fight. This article will be your guide, breaking down everything you need to know to take on the Illuminate effectively. We'll dive into the Negotiator's strengths and weaknesses, ideal strategies for dealing with various Illuminate threats, and some handy tips and tricks to keep you alive and kicking. So, grab your favorite weapon, load up on democracy, and get ready to spread some liberation! This is all about Helldivers 2, and how to negotiate a victory against those pesky space squids!
Understanding the Illuminate Menace
First things first, let's get acquainted with our enemies. The Illuminate are a faction in Helldivers 2 known for their advanced technology, particularly their use of energy shields and teleportation. They are extremely mobile, capable of flanking you in a heartbeat, and their attacks are often concentrated and powerful. Their units are varied, ranging from basic melee attackers to heavily armored elites and support units that can call in reinforcements or debuff your squad. The Illuminate forces deploy in a number of formations, often including shielded scouts, teleporting assassins, and powerful heavy units. The Illuminate also frequently utilize defensive structures, such as energy turrets and force fields, which require specific strategies to overcome.
Dealing with the Illuminate requires a shift in mindset. You can't just run-and-gun like you might against the Automatons or the Terminids. You need to be methodical, strategic, and aware of your surroundings. Patience is key. One of the biggest challenges when going up against the Illuminate is their shields. They can absorb a massive amount of damage, making it tough to take them down. Plus, they can make your job even more frustrating by teleporting around the battlefield and constantly repositioning. This is where the Negotiator becomes a serious asset. Knowing the specific strengths and weaknesses of each type of Illuminate enemy is vital. For example, some units have weaker shields, while others are vulnerable to specific types of weapons or stratagems. The Illuminate frequently employ tactics such as ambushes and flanking maneuvers. These tactics can quickly overwhelm an unprepared squad. This is a very interesting topic that the game deals with.
Key Illuminate Units to Watch Out For
- Scouts: These are the basic shielded units, and they'll try to rush you. They will try to overwhelm you with their numbers, so prioritize taking them out early.
- Assassin: Teleporting assassins that can quickly close the distance and take you out with a few well-placed attacks. Watch out for these guys, they are super annoying!
- Council Members: Heavier armored units with strong shields and powerful attacks. They can take a beating, so be ready to unload on them.
- Illuminated Beacons: These units can call in reinforcements, which can quickly overwhelm your squad. Destroy them ASAP.
The Negotiator: Your Anti-Illuminate Ace
Now, let's talk about the star of the show: The Negotiator. For those who are not familiar, the Negotiator is a primary weapon known for its versatility. The Negotiator is a very useful weapon when dealing with shields. The rapid-fire nature of the Negotiator means you can quickly tear down enemy shields. Its high rate of fire allows for sustained damage, which is crucial for taking down the Illuminate's armored units and suppressing enemy fire. You can often find the Negotiator in the Support Weapon category in Helldivers 2. However, with careful application and strategic deployment of support stratagems, it can be extremely effective in the fight against the Illuminate. The Negotiator's range allows you to engage the Illuminate from a distance, minimizing your exposure to their attacks. It is effective at medium-range engagements, which is ideal for dealing with the Illuminate forces.
The Negotiator's Strengths
- Shield-Busting Power: The Negotiator is excellent at stripping away enemy shields. This is the Negotiator's main strength. The high rate of fire allows you to quickly deplete the shields of the enemies.
- Suppression: It can pin down enemies, making it difficult for them to advance or maneuver. This is useful for controlling the battlefield and buying time for your squad. You will be able to disrupt enemy attacks.
- Versatile: It's effective against a variety of enemy types, not just the shielded ones. It can shred through unshielded enemies just as easily.
- Easy to Use: This weapon is easy to pick up, and you'll become a pro in no time.
The Negotiator's Weaknesses
- Limited Ammo: You'll need to manage your ammo carefully. Always try to keep an eye on your ammo reserves, and don't hesitate to call in a resupply when needed.
- Recoil: The recoil can be a problem at longer ranges. Learning to control the recoil is essential for accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
- Overheating: If you overdo it, your weapon will overheat, so you'll need to pace yourself.
Strategies for Negotiating Victory Against the Illuminate
Now that you know your enemy and your weapon, here's how to put it all together. Success against the Illuminate in Helldivers 2 hinges on teamwork, map awareness, and smart stratagem usage. The Negotiator works best when used in coordination with other team members.
- Shield Focus: The Negotiator is your primary shield-breaker. Focus your fire on the enemy's shields to allow your teammates to follow up with more powerful attacks. Prioritize the enemies with shields.
- Teamwork is Key: One person covers shields while another uses powerful stratagems to eliminate the enemies. Communicate with your squad, call out enemy positions, and coordinate your attacks.
- Positioning: Find good cover and avoid getting swarmed. The Illuminate can easily overwhelm you if you're out in the open.
- Stratagem Support: Coordinate your stratagem usage. Use orbital strikes to deal with large groups of enemies and support weapons.
- Know Your Enemy: Understand the attacks of the enemy and know which enemy to prioritize in different situations.
Specific Tactics for Different Illuminate Units
- Scouts: Focus fire on their shields with the Negotiator, and then take them down quickly.
- Assassins: Predict their teleportation points. Use the Negotiator to set up an ambush and take them out before they get too close.
- Council Members: Use stratagems to eliminate them or coordinate focused fire with your team.
- Illuminated Beacons: Destroy them as fast as possible to prevent reinforcements. Have someone on beacon duty while the others deal with the other forces.
Optimizing Your Loadout for Illuminate Encounters
Choosing the right equipment is important for this mission. Selecting the right support weapon, strategems, and armor can greatly increase your chances of success. Let's look at what to bring. You want a loadout that complements the Negotiator's strengths and covers its weaknesses.
Recommended Stratagems
- Orbital Precision Strike: Great for taking out groups of shielded enemies or dealing with armored units. This stratagem will give you much more firepower on the battlefield.
- Eagle Airstrike: For clearing out groups of enemies or quickly destroying enemy structures.
- Guard Dog Rover: Offers continuous fire support, helping to deal with enemies while you focus on shield-busting. It will help to eliminate minor threats while you deal with the main enemy force.
- EAT-17: A quick and effective anti-armor option for dealing with heavier units. These are very easy to call in.
Armor and Boosters
- Armor with Increased Resistance: Choose armor that boosts your armor rating or offers resistance to specific damage types. Reduced damage taken can keep you alive longer.
- Boosters: Choose boosters that offer increased stamina, reduced recoil, or improved weapon handling. These can enhance your effectiveness with the Negotiator.
Advanced Tips and Tricks
Want to take your Illuminate-slaying to the next level? Here are some pro tips:
- Practice Your Aim: The Negotiator is most effective with accurate fire. Spend some time in the training grounds to improve your aim and learn how to control the recoil.
- Learn Enemy Teleportation: Pay attention to how the Illuminate teleport and try to predict their movements. This will allow you to position yourself to strike at the perfect moment.
- Conserve Ammo: The Negotiator chews through ammo, so be mindful of your shots and avoid wasting bullets on enemies that are already nearly dead. Also, be sure to use cover.
- Coordinate with Your Squad: The Illuminate are tough to beat alone. Work together, and you'll quickly become a formidable force.
- Adjust Your Strategy: Don't be afraid to change your tactics if they're not working. The Illuminate can be unpredictable, so stay flexible and adapt to the situation.
Conclusion: Spreading Democracy with the Negotiator
There you have it, folks! With the Negotiator in hand, a solid strategy, and a little bit of teamwork, you can take on the Illuminate and come out on top. Remember to prioritize shield removal, coordinate your attacks, and stay aware of your surroundings. Now get out there, spread some democracy, and liberate those planets! Happy diving, Helldivers! If you follow these tips, you will be well on your way to a glorious victory. The Negotiator will be your best friend, and you will become a master of the battlefield.