Top Primary Weapons Ranked in Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 continues the tradition of high-intensity cooperative gameplay, where choosing the right primary weapon can make or break a mission. Whether you’re dropping into a swarming alien hive or holding a chokepoint under heavy fire, knowing which weapons perform best can give you a serious edge. After extensive playtesting, here’s a ranking of the top primary weapons in Helldivers 2 and why they stand out.
1. The ARX Assault Rifle
The ARX Assault Rifle is a versatile powerhouse. Its balance between rate of fire, accuracy, and manageable recoil makes it ideal for both close-quarters combat and medium-range engagements. Players who prioritize mobility and precision tend to gravitate toward this weapon. Its high damage output against lightly armored enemies and consistent performance across maps puts it at the top of our list.
2. The Purifier Shotgun
Nothing clears a room like the Purifier Shotgun. Its devastating close-range damage can turn the tide during intense boarding or hive missions. While its range is limited, proper positioning allows for absolute domination in confined spaces. This weapon pairs well with armor-heavy builds and works great when covering choke points with teammates.
3. The Quasar Cannon
For those who enjoy heavy firepower, the Quasar Cannon is unmatched. Its explosive rounds can obliterate clusters of enemies, making it a favorite for crowd control. Be mindful of its slower reload speed and high ammo consumption, but when used strategically, it can carry your team through the toughest missions. Players who want to maximize their impact in cooperative drops often consider investing in upgrades for this weapon.
4. The Striker SMG
The Striker SMG is perfect for aggressive, on-the-move players. With a rapid fire rate and excellent mobility, it excels in hit-and-run tactics. While its damage per shot is lower than heavier weapons, its sheer volume of fire can overwhelm foes, especially in missions with numerous fast-moving enemies.
5. The Sentinel Rifle
The Sentinel Rifle is ideal for long-range engagements. Its high accuracy and strong single-shot damage make it a reliable choice for players who like to support their squad from a distance. It rewards precision aiming, making it slightly more challenging for newcomers but extremely satisfying in skilled hands.
Tips for Weapon Upgrades
Regardless of your favorite primary weapon, investing in upgrades can significantly improve your performance. Many players choose to buy Helldivers 2 super credits to unlock premium mods faster, while others hunt for cheap Helldivers 2 samples to enhance weapon stats without spending real-world money. Balancing these resources efficiently can give you a competitive edge in both solo and team play.
Choosing the right primary weapon in Helldivers 2 largely depends on your playstyle. The ARX Assault Rifle is the all-around winner for versatility, the Purifier Shotgun dominates close quarters, and the Quasar Cannon handles crowd control like no other. Meanwhile, the Striker SMG and Sentinel Rifle offer specialized strengths that can be invaluable depending on mission objectives. Experiment, upgrade, and coordinate with your squad to find the perfect setup for your next drop.