Helldivers 2 New Tier List for Buffed Weapons

The Helldivers 2 update brought significant weapon adjustments, prompting a reassessment of their effectiveness. This tier list categorizes weapons based on their performance after the buffs, offering insights for players seeking optimal strategies.

S-Tier

Recoilless Rifle / SPEAR / Quasar Cannon / Expendable Anti-Tank

These anti-tank specialists are now indispensable. Their amplified damage output ensures consistent takedowns, quickly eliminating Chargers, Bile Titans, Hulks, Dropships, and Tanks (especially from vulnerable flanks). The consistent and potent performance makes them the pinnacle of anti-armor weaponry.

Arc Thrower / Arc Blitzer

The Arc weapons have evolved beyond simple crowd control. The addition of a stun effect, compounding with each hit, bolsters their tactical value. Enhanced range and increased hits per shot significantly improve versatility, making them invaluable for clearing waves of weaker enemies and assisting anti-tank specialists.

Flame weapons

Flame weapons, after a previous nerf, have been revitalized with a damage increase and the ability to harm heavier enemies. Their improved projectile physics combined with the damage buff makes them adept at eliminating Terminids, surprisingly even capable of dealing substantial damage to Automatons. Their return to form makes them valuable in diverse encounters.

Railgun

Previously a controversial weapon due to high performance, the Railgun has received a significant upgrade. Increased durable damage and an enhanced overcharge damage buff solidify its standing. It’s now a dependable weapon, especially for taking down medium-armored targets, reflecting its broadened applicability.

Crossbow / Eruptor

These weapons excel at clearing out weaker and mid-tier enemies through their area-of-effect damage. The Crossbow gains a straightforward damage buff, while the Eruptor’s shrapnel effect returns with enhanced potency, now capable of devastating bot Fabricators. This improved efficiency across various enemy types strengthens their position.

Breaker

Reinstated to its former glory, the Breaker returns with its maximum ammo capacity restored. Coupled with an increased stagger force, it’s now the ultimate anti-Terminid primary weapon. Its effectiveness stems from its ability to significantly disrupt enemies, positioning it as a strong choice against Terminids.

Laser Cannon

Already a robust weapon, the Laser Cannon’s ability to damage heavy targets is a key improvement. This versatility makes it a formidable option for combat against either Terminids or Automatons, particularly in Super Helldive. Its ability to combat virtually any foe reinforces its all-around utility.

Thermite Grenade

The Thermite Grenade enjoys the most dramatic buff, with a substantial 1000 damage increase. This makes it crucial in Super Helldive, providing substantial damage to enemy elites even for players without dedicated anti-armor weaponry. Its high-impact damage makes it an excellent choice against various enemy types.

A-Tier

Autocannon

A slight buff to the Autocannon allows it to inflict damage on elite targets like Bile Titans and Hulks. Though not exceptional in any aspect, it remains a solid all-around option for players who can effectively land consistent shots on designated targets. Its versatile damage profile and demolition capabilities enhance its value.

Dagger

The Dagger, once plagued by overheating and low damage, now benefits from significant upgrades. These improvements elevate its performance, turning it into a reliable backup option with effectively limitless ammo. Its upgraded stats make it more attractive for use in demanding situations.

Anti-Materiel Rifle

The Anti-Materiel Rifle’s original weakness against armored foes is addressed with a targeted buff that enhances its effectiveness against Automatons. This shift makes it a formidable bot-hunting specialist. Despite this strength, its lower ammo capacity remains a drawback against Terminids.

Scythe

The Scythe, previously underperforming, now features the ability to ignite enemies after consistent targeting. This buff significantly decreases the time required for ignition. The Scythe excels at dealing with Terminids but still demands precise headshots against Automatons, especially Devastators.

B-Tier

Commando

While receiving a buff similar to other anti-armor weapons, the Commando’s limitations in taking down Bile Titans and Automaton Fabricators place it below more effective options. It remains a functional support weapon but is eclipsed by the superior anti-tank offerings.

Liberator Penetrator

Despite a damage increase, the Liberator Penetrator still underperforms against Automatons and Terminids, failing to offer significant advantages over other options. The explosive weapons like the Crossbow and Eruptor are often more efficient in achieving similar goals.