The Illuminate have returned to challenge even the most seasoned Helldivers, bringing their advanced energy weapons, teleportation, and overwhelming psionic powers. Unlike the Bug or Automaton factions, these foes demand precision, adaptability, and the right firepower. This guide breaks down the Helldivers 2 – Best Weapons Against the Illuminate, helping you survive and dominate in every engagement.

Understanding the Illuminate Threat

The Illuminate aren’t just another alien species — they’re highly intelligent, using energy-based weaponry, drones, and teleportation tactics to outmaneuver careless players. Their Sentinels and Obelisks can decimate squads that rely too heavily on traditional ballistic firepower. To counter them effectively, players need weapons that handle shields, deal consistent damage at range, and can interrupt their teleportation sequences.

1. LAS-16 Sickle – Precision Meets Efficiency

The LAS-16 Sickle shines in Illuminate encounters due to its energy-based design. It bypasses shield regeneration by delivering sustained, accurate fire. Unlike conventional rifles, it doesn’t require ammo pickups, which makes it invaluable during prolonged firefights where Illuminate teleporters keep respawning reinforcements.

Why it works: Energy damage matches the Illuminate’s own tech level, cutting through shields.

Best use: Mid-to-long range engagements where precision trumps volume of fire.

2. EAT-17 and Railgun – The Anti-Heavy Duo

When dealing with Obelisks or shielded Sentinels, heavy ordnance is your best friend. The EAT-17 provides a quick, disposable solution for taking out big targets. Meanwhile, the Railgun remains one of the most versatile anti-armor weapons in Helldivers 2.

Why it works: Both can deliver enough punch to disrupt shield generators or destroy Illuminate structures in one hit.

Pro tip: Always keep an EAT-17 in reserve when playing higher difficulties — you’ll thank yourself when an unexpected Obelisk drops in.

3. SG-8 Punisher Plasma – Area Control Against Drones

Illuminate drones swarm relentlessly, often catching squads off-guard. The SG-8 Punisher Plasma shotgun helps clear tight spaces while delivering splash damage to multiple targets.

Why it works: Its plasma rounds can bypass minor shields and deal explosive area damage.

Best use: Defensive positions or close-range ambushes when drones teleport in.

4. ARC-12 Blitzer – Crowd Control Master

The ARC-12 Blitzer is often underrated but devastating against the Illuminate. Its chaining lightning attack can disable multiple targets at once, ideal for controlling teleporting enemies and stopping psionic units before they charge up an attack.

Why it works: Disrupts shields and deals residual electric damage to nearby targets.

Best use: When your squad needs reliable crowd control without sacrificing mobility.

5. LAS-98 Laser Cannon – Long-Range Suppression

For those who prefer a steady stream of laser fire, the LAS-98 Laser Cannon offers excellent range and sustained damage output. It’s perfect for melting through Illuminate formations before they close in.

Why it works: Continuous beam fire is effective at suppressing teleporters and disorienting enemy drones.

Best use: Pair with a teammate running heavy ordnance for maximum battlefield efficiency.

Fighting the Illuminate requires more than brute force — it’s about using intelligence and technology to match theirs. The Helldivers 2 – Best Weapons Against the Illuminate are those that combine precision, adaptability, and consistency under pressure. Whether you favor the tactical edge of the Railgun or the devastating splash of the SG-8 Punisher Plasma, mastering these tools is the key to maintaining Super Earth’s superiority.