The Illuminate are one of the trickiest factions in Helldivers 2. Unlike the Terminids or Automatons, they rely on advanced technology, shields, and deceptive attacks to overwhelm squads. To succeed against them, you’ll need a specialized loadout and a set of tactics designed to break through their defenses and counter their mobility. Here’s a breakdown of the best strategies to use when facing Illuminate forces.

Best Loadout for Fighting the Illuminate

Primary Weapons:
For standard engagements, choose an assault rifle or a marksman rifle that balances accuracy and fire rate. Since Illuminate units often rely on shields, weapons with strong sustained fire are more effective than single-shot burst damage. The AR-23 Liberator is a solid pick for general engagements, while the Diligence Marksman Rifle offers precision against mid-range shielded units.

Secondary Weapons:
Carry a reliable sidearm with fast draw speed. Pistols may not seem impressive, but when caught in close range after shield bursts, they can buy you enough time to reposition.

Stratagems:

• Anti-Armor Support: Illuminate enemies like Obelisks and heavy shield units can be tough to crack. The Recoilless Rifle or EAT-17 are excellent choices.

• Crowd Control: The Orbital Airburst Strike and Strafing Run can disrupt enemy groups before they close in.

• Defensive Options: Consider a Shield Generator Pack to help your squad survive longer against energy weapon barrages.

Armor Choice:
Light armor may help you move quickly, but medium or heavy armor is recommended for this faction. Energy blasts and beams can cut down lightly equipped players fast, so extra durability is often worth the tradeoff.

Tactics for Facing Illuminate

1. Prioritize Shield Breakers
   Illuminate shield drones protect multiple units at once. Take them down first to expose enemies, then focus fire on the more dangerous targets like Council Members and Obelisks.

2. Maintain Spacing
   Unlike Terminids that swarm, Illuminate use pinpoint energy weapons. Standing too close together makes your squad an easy target for beam weapons and area-of-effect attacks. Spread out but maintain line-of-sight to revive allies quickly if needed.

3. Control the High Ground
   Illuminate units often hover or appear suddenly in elevated positions. Using terrain wisely can help reduce ambushes and give your squad a better vantage point.

4. Keep Stratagems in Rotation
   This faction punishes slow responses. Drop supply packs, reinforcements, and orbital support frequently to keep momentum. Waiting too long can result in being surrounded by shielded groups.

5. Resource Management
   If you’re looking to gear up before heavy Illuminate missions, many players choose to buy Helldivers 2 items that complement their builds. Preparing your loadout properly can make a major difference in surviving their high-tech assaults. For players focused on progression, a cheap Helldivers 2 super credits store can help you unlock Warbonds faster and expand your tactical options.

The Illuminate are unlike any other faction in Helldivers 2. They require precision, coordination, and a willingness to adapt mid-battle. With the right loadout—prioritizing anti-shield firepower, sustained DPS, and supportive stratagems—you’ll be ready to dismantle their advanced armies. Stay mobile, keep your squad spread out, and always eliminate shield drones first. Master these tactics, and your team will be far better equipped to deliver true managed democracy against Illuminate forces.