Helldivers 2 Devastators: Tactics, Loadouts, and How to Crush These Armored Foes

Introduction

The galaxy needs liberation. In the relentless, cooperative shooter Helldivers two, you and your fellow Helldivers are tasked with spreading managed democracy to the hostile planets teeming with Terminids and Automatons. While the bugs pose a significant threat with their sheer numbers, the Automatons bring a different kind of challenge: heavily armored units that demand strategic thinking and coordinated firepower. Among these mechanical monstrosities, the Devastator stands as a particularly formidable foe. These hulking robots can quickly turn the tide of battle, but with the right tactics and loadouts, even the most challenging Devastator encounters can be overcome. This article provides Helldivers with the knowledge and strategies needed to effectively combat and eliminate Devastators, ensuring victory and the preservation of managed democracy across the galaxy.

Understanding the Devastator Threat

The Devastator is a heavily armored automaton unit, a walking tank designed to withstand tremendous punishment while dishing out devastating firepower. Visually, it’s an imposing figure, a bipedal robot covered in thick plates of armor. It is important to recognize what types of Devastators you are fighting. The standard Devastator is equipped with a rapid-firing machine gun, capable of suppressing Helldivers and shredding unarmored targets. Rocket Devastators, as the name suggests, launch volleys of rockets, dealing significant area-of-effect damage. Lastly, Shield Devastators carry a large shield, providing them with even more protection and making them incredibly difficult to engage head-on.

Each type of Devastator presents its own unique challenge. The machine gun Devastator excels at laying down suppressing fire, forcing Helldivers to take cover. The Rocket Devastator can quickly decimate clustered groups, making it essential to maintain proper spacing. The Shield Devastator requires careful maneuvering and flanking to expose its weak points. Their primary strength lies in their heavy armor and substantial firepower, allowing them to withstand considerable damage and inflict significant casualties. However, despite their robust defenses, Devastators are not invincible. Their exposed joints and specific angles of attack provide vulnerabilities that can be exploited by savvy Helldivers.

Devastators are particularly troublesome because they are able to tank damage, suppress our positions, and dish out significant damage. Helldivers frequently encounter them in fortified positions, guarding objectives, or patrolling in heavily defended areas. They are often deployed in conjunction with other Automaton units, creating a deadly synergy that can overwhelm unprepared teams. It is paramount that Helldivers prioritize eliminating Devastators to minimize casualties and maintain battlefield control. Ignoring them can lead to a swift and demoralizing defeat.

Loadout Recommendations for Anti-Devastator Warfare

Selecting the right loadout is crucial for effectively engaging Devastators. A well-equipped Helldiver can significantly improve the team’s chances of success.

Consider a primary weapon with solid armor penetration capabilities. The Railgun is an excellent choice, able to pierce through even the thickest armor plating with well-placed shots. The Autocannon can be also be used. These weapons allow Helldivers to directly target a Devastator’s weak points, bypassing its armor and inflicting critical damage. Other viable primary weapons include those with high rates of fire, allowing you to saturate exposed joints and weakpoints with bullets.

When choosing a support weapon, the Recoilless Rifle stands out as a powerful option. Its high damage output and armor-piercing capabilities make it ideal for taking down Devastators quickly. However, it requires a dedicated teammate to reload effectively, highlighting the importance of teamwork. The Expendable Anti-Tank, or EAT, is another valuable choice. Its simplicity and cooldown makes it effective. The Autocannon provides a good balance of armor penetration, range, and fire rate.

Stratagems are essential tools in the fight against Devastators. The Orbital Precision Strike and Orbital Railcannon Strike can deal massive damage to Devastators, especially during initial engagements. Eagle Airstrikes, particularly those with cluster bombs, are effective for area denial and crowd control, forcing Devastators out of cover and disrupting their formations. Supply Drops are critical for maintaining ammo and ensuring the team’s survival. Shield Generator Packs provide additional survivability, allowing Helldivers to push objectives and withstand incoming fire. An Orbital Laser can be helpful, if coordinated properly.

Tactics and Strategies

Teamwork and coordination are paramount when facing Devastators. Effective communication and target prioritization are essential for maximizing damage output and minimizing casualties. Designating roles, such as one Helldiver focusing on armor penetration while others provide support, can significantly improve efficiency. Flanking maneuvers are crucial for exposing Devastator weak points, allowing the team to focus fire on vulnerable areas.

Exploiting Devastator weaknesses is key to victory. Targeting the head, if visible, can inflict critical damage. Focusing fire on the back of the body can bypass some of the armor. Utilizing terrain for cover and flanking opportunities allows Helldivers to gain a tactical advantage.

Maintaining situational awareness is also crucial. Recognizing Devastator types and adapting tactics accordingly ensures that the team is prepared for any situation. Avoiding open areas and setting up ambushes can mitigate the Devastator’s firepower. Managing the battlefield and controlling the flow of combat allows Helldivers to dictate the terms of engagement.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Understanding armor penetration mechanics can greatly enhance your effectiveness against Devastators. In Helldivers two, different weapons have varying levels of armor penetration. Choosing weapons that can reliably penetrate Devastator armor is crucial for inflicting damage.

Using explosives strategically can also be highly effective. Maximizing the impact of grenades and Stratagems requires careful planning and precise timing. Avoiding friendly fire is essential for maintaining team cohesion.

Mastering movement and positioning is also crucial for survival. Diving to avoid attacks, using cover effectively, and maintaining proper spacing can significantly reduce your vulnerability.

Managing resources effectively is also essential. Conserving ammunition, knowing when to retreat and re-engage, and coordinating supply drops can ensure that the team remains well-equipped and prepared for prolonged engagements.

Conclusion

Devastators pose a significant threat in Helldivers two, but they are not insurmountable. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, selecting the right loadouts, and implementing effective tactics, Helldivers can reliably eliminate these armored foes and secure victory for Super Earth. Remember that teamwork, communication, and adaptation are key to success. Experiment with different loadouts and strategies to find what works best for your playstyle and your team. Now, get out there and spread democracy, one Devastator at a time! Share your own tips and strategies in the comments below!