Helldivers 2 Arc Thrower Guide: When and How to Use
The Arc Thrower in Helldivers 2 is one of those weapons that can either make you feel like a battlefield god or leave you wondering why you even equipped it. Unlike standard rifles or machine guns, the Arc Thrower is a specialized tool designed for dealing with heavily armored enemies and crowd control. It takes some getting used to, but once you learn its rhythm, it can become one of the most effective tools in your arsenal.
What Makes the Arc Thrower Special
The Arc Thrower isn’t your typical damage-dealer. Instead of firing bullets, it unleashes a surge of electricity that chains between enemies. This makes it perfect for groups of tightly packed foes, especially when you’re being swarmed by bugs or dealing with clustered Automaton units. The weapon also bypasses certain types of armor, meaning it can cut through tougher targets that standard firearms struggle against.
However, the Arc Thrower isn’t a plug-and-play weapon. It requires charging before each shot, and its arcs can sometimes hit allies if they’re caught in the chain. This friendly-fire risk means communication and positioning are critical when using it in co-op.
When to Use the Arc Thrower
The Arc Thrower shines in specific situations, and knowing when to pull it out can be the difference between success and mission failure.
Against Armored TargetsEnemy types with thick plating, such as Chargers or heavily shielded Automatons, are vulnerable to its electric discharge. The Arc Thrower is particularly effective when you don’t want to rely solely on heavy stratagems like the Recoilless Rifle.
Crowd ControlWhen enemy swarms pile up, the Arc Thrower’s chain lightning effect can thin out groups quickly. It’s not as explosive as grenades, but it can maintain consistent pressure.
Low Ammo ScenariosSince the Arc Thrower operates differently than traditional weapons, it can serve as a backup when you’re running low on ammunition for your primary loadout.
How to Use the Arc Thrower Effectively
The key to mastering the Arc Thrower is patience. Each shot needs to be charged, which means you can’t panic-fire it in the middle of a hectic fight. Instead, find moments when enemies are grouped or when a priority target is in range. Aim carefully, charge fully, and release the electricity at the right time.
Keep in mind:
Watch your allies’ positions. Stray arcs can hit teammates, so use it from a distance or coordinate when firing.
Pair it with mobility perks. Since you’ll often be stationary while charging, having armor passives that boost sprint speed or stamina can help you reposition quickly.
Save it for tough engagements rather than wasting it on small fry that your primary weapons can handle.
Should You Invest in It?
For many players, unlocking and upgrading the Arc Thrower is a worthwhile investment if you enjoy versatile tools for both crowd control and anti-armor. Some players prefer more straightforward weapons, but the Arc Thrower rewards those who master its unique mechanics.
As you progress, you’ll earn resources to expand your arsenal. While browsing through options, you might also come across things like buy Helldivers 2 super credits or see mentions of Helldivers 2 medals for sale. These in-game currencies and rewards often tempt players to speed up their progression, but the Arc Thrower itself can be earned through regular play, making it a fair pickup for anyone willing to put in the time.
The Arc Thrower isn’t a beginner-friendly weapon, but in the right hands, it’s devastating. It demands careful aim, awareness of your squad, and patience in combat. If you’re looking to diversify your loadout and handle enemies that shrug off bullets, the Arc Thrower is worth adding to your arsenal.