Helldivers 2 has been the breakout hit of 2024. The game launched on PS5 and PC in relative obscurity, yet has since emerged as the talk of the industry thanks to its brand of co-operative multiplayer. Like many others, I’ve found myself addicted to the game and eager to do my part in the ongoing Galactic War – and using the best weapons in Helldivers 2 is essential to that.
As more Helldivers join the fight, they are also wondering what the best weapons to use are. Like all games, some weapons are significantly better than others. And if you want to advance in the game’s difficulty stages, then it’s crucial to pick the best loadout you can.
Having tried out what each firearm has to offer, I’ve put together this top 5 ranking for the best weapons in Helldivers 2. Pick one of these and you’ll be giving yourself an edge in the fight against the Automatons and the Terminids.
It’s worth noting that I’ve excluded the premium weapons as they are only available to players who buy the Premium Warbond. Regardless, they aren’t any better than the standard guns, so wouldn’t make the list anyway.
Let’s take a look at the top 5 weapons to use in Helldivers 2…
Top 5 weapons in Helldivers 2
5. R-63 Diligence
A marksman rifle might not be the first thing that you think of when it comes to fighting hordes of robots or giant insectoid aliens. However, the R-63 Diligence combination of precision accuracy and solid stopping power makes it a great choice for those who like to target weak spots.
Equipped with a variable scope, the Diligence is a strong choice for those who like to keep their distance and dispatch enemies without throwing themselves into the heart of the action.
Of course, it’s not so good when you’re cornered – but that problem can be mitigated by pairing it with our next choice.
4. P-19 Redeemer
The P-19 Redeemer is a sidearm. While there’s not much choice when it comes to secondary weapons in Helldivers 2, the P-19 Redeemer is basically the only option that makes.
An Uzi-like fully automatic submachine gun, the P-19 Redeemer combines a high fire rate with high damage output. Its only downside is its small magazine size, which can leave you short when facing off with multiple any enemies.
3. AR-23 Liberator
It might be the starter weapon, but the AR-23 Liberator really is one of the best choices of primary weapons in Helldivers 2.
The Liberator is a certified all-rounder. It’s good at range, holds its own against multiple enemies, has a decent sized magazine, and packs a decent punch.
Naturally, it feels a bit like the noob choice given that it’s the game’s starting weapon. However, if you want something that works in pretty much every scenario you’ll encounter in Helldivers 2, the Liberator is the gun for you.
2. SMG-37 Defender
Given the choice, I’d take the SMG-37 Defender over the Liberator every day of the week.
It boasts a damage rating of 70 which is 15 points higher than the Liberator. It’s more accurate too, meaning you’ll hit more shots to boot.
The only downside is that the Defender is unlocked by progressing through the Warbond, which means it isn’t available until much later in the game than the Liberator. That said, its well worth the wait and is definitely the choice to go with if you favour fully automative weapons.
1. SG-225 Breaker
The SG-225 Breaker is a shotgun that has a seriously impressive damage rating of 330. It’s an absolute beast when it comes to slaughtering bugs or dismantling bots.
Its immense damage output coupled with its sizeable 16 shell magazine and decent fire rate makes it the best weapon to use in Helldivers 2.
While it’s unlocked later than the others on this list, the Breaker isn’t that far through all things considered. If you’re looking to seriously bolster your arsenal ready for higher difficulty games, the Breaker is an absolute must.
Do you agree with my top 5 best weapons in Helldivers 2? What are you picks? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles.
