Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Autocannon Guide

Hey there, fellow Helldivers! Are you ready to dive headfirst into the chaotic, bug-blasting, robot-ripping world of Helldivers 2? If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for ways to dish out more democracy, and let me tell you, the Autocannon is a fantastic way to do just that. This guide will cover everything you need to know about wielding this beast of a weapon, from its strengths and weaknesses to tips on how to effectively use it on the battlefield. So, grab your Helldiver gear, and let’s get started, guys!

Unveiling the Autocannon: A Heavy-Duty Overview

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. The Autocannon, unlocked relatively early in the game (around level 5), is a support weapon in Helldivers 2 that specializes in laying down sustained, high-damage fire. Think of it as your personal, portable artillery piece. Its primary role is to eliminate heavily armored targets, clear out hordes of smaller enemies, and provide area denial. Unlike some of the more specialized weapons in the game, the Autocannon is a versatile tool that can be adapted to various combat situations, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels. The Autocannon excels at taking down the bigger threats, like Chargers, Bile Titans, and even the heavily armored Automaton units. Its high damage per shot and rate of fire can quickly chew through enemy armor, making it a valuable asset for any squad. But before you get too excited, let's talk about the downsides, because every weapon has them. The Autocannon, like all support weapons, requires a backpack to carry the ammunition, which means you'll be giving up a backpack slot that could be used for other strategic advantages. Also, the Autocannon's recoil can be significant, especially when firing sustained bursts. You will need to take this into account when aiming and firing, or you'll find your shots going all over the place. Finally, the Autocannon’s slow reload time can leave you vulnerable during intense firefights, so you’ll need to make sure to reload the weapon in a safe location. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Autocannon remains a top-tier choice for any Helldiver looking to make a big impact on the battlefield. Its ability to eliminate threats at range, clear out hordes of enemies, and provide cover fire makes it an invaluable asset in the fight for Super Earth. You can get the most out of the Autocannon with proper positioning, ammo management, and teamwork with your fellow Helldivers. Knowing when to engage and disengage, prioritizing targets, and making use of cover are all essential for maximizing its effectiveness and surviving the war. Now, let’s dig a little deeper into how you can use this weapon effectively.

Mastering the Battlefield: Autocannon Tactics and Techniques

Alright, guys, let's get into the nitty-gritty of using the Autocannon in Helldivers 2. First things first, aiming. Because of the recoil, you’ll want to try to use short, controlled bursts instead of holding down the trigger continuously. This will help you keep your shots on target and maximize your damage output. When engaging bigger targets like Chargers or Bile Titans, aim for their weak points. For Chargers, target their legs and for Bile Titans, go for their heads or the exposed sacks on their underbellies. Another good tip is to position yourself where you have a clear line of sight and can take advantage of cover. The Autocannon is most effective at medium to long ranges, so try to avoid getting too close to the enemy. Use terrain features like rocks, buildings, or trenches to provide cover and protect yourself from enemy fire. Be mindful of your ammo. The Autocannon has a limited amount of ammunition, and it’s easy to burn through it quickly, especially when dealing with hordes of enemies. Make sure to keep an eye on your ammo count and reload when you have a moment, and don’t be afraid to call in a resupply Stratagem when needed. Speaking of Stratagems, use them! The Autocannon is a great weapon, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Combine it with other Stratagems like Orbital Strikes, Eagle Strikes, and Support Weapons to create a devastating combination. For example, you could use an Orbital Railcannon Strike to soften up a group of enemies, then use your Autocannon to finish them off. The Autocannon shines in defense. Set up defensive positions. If you are defending an objective, or if you're holding your ground against waves of enemies, you can set up a defensive position, aim your Autocannon at the most likely avenues of approach, and provide effective area denial. This can make it incredibly difficult for the enemy to advance. By combining these tactics, you can turn the Autocannon into a fearsome weapon and become a valuable asset to your team. Remember to adapt your strategy based on the mission and the enemies you face. Good communication with your teammates is key, so you can call out targets, coordinate attacks, and ensure your squad’s survival.

Autocannon vs. The Enemy: A Guide to Target Prioritization

So, you’ve got your Autocannon loaded and ready to go, but what do you shoot first? Knowing which enemies to prioritize is vital for survival in Helldivers 2. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

• Chargers: These heavily armored behemoths are a top priority. They can quickly charge across the battlefield and knock down Helldivers, causing serious damage. Aim for their legs to cripple them and eventually take them down.
• Bile Titans: These colossal creatures can spew acid and deal massive area damage. The Autocannon is one of the best ways to deal with them. Focus fire on their heads or the sacs on their underbellies.
• Hulk: These heavily armored Automatons are equipped with flamethrowers or cannons, making them deadly at close and medium range. Prioritize these targets to avoid getting burned or blown to pieces.
• Devastators: These heavily armored enemies pack a punch with their primary weapon. Taking them out from a distance is usually your best bet.
• Brood Commanders: Brood Commanders can spawn endless streams of bugs. Take them out quickly to stop them from overwhelming your squad.
• Hordes of smaller enemies: While the Autocannon isn't the best at clearing out swarms, it can still be effective if you aim for the ground in front of the horde. This strategy can eliminate multiple enemies at once.

Remember to adjust your target priority based on the situation. If you are being swarmed by enemies, clearing them out may be more important than focusing on a single large target. The key is to stay aware of your surroundings, communicate with your teammates, and adapt your strategy to the flow of battle. If you're playing against the Automatons, the priority shifts a bit. Hulks and Devastators become even higher priority targets, as their heavy weaponry can quickly deplete your health. The Autocannon is excellent at dealing with them from a distance. Knowing the enemy and choosing the right targets can be the difference between victory and defeat. Always keep an eye on the battlefield and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Maximizing Your Democracy Delivery: Advanced Autocannon Tips and Tricks

Alright, let’s go a little deeper into some advanced techniques that will help you truly master the Autocannon in Helldivers 2. These tips will give you the edge and help you become a true marksman. First, practice your recoil control. The Autocannon's recoil can be a beast, but with practice, you can learn to control it. Experiment with different firing modes (short bursts vs. sustained fire) to find what works best for you. Some players find it helpful to crouch or brace the weapon against cover to reduce recoil. Secondly, learn to lead your shots. When engaging moving targets, you’ll need to lead your shots to compensate for the time it takes for the bullets to reach the target. This takes practice, but mastering this skill can drastically increase your accuracy and effectiveness, especially against faster enemies. Next, conserve your ammo. The Autocannon can chew through ammunition quickly. Be mindful of how much ammo you have left and avoid wasting bullets on insignificant targets. Take advantage of resupply Stratagems to refill your ammo when needed. Teamwork is another great tip. Coordinate with your teammates to maximize the Autocannon's effectiveness. Have your teammates focus on eliminating smaller enemies while you concentrate on the larger, more heavily armored targets. Communicate your targets and coordinate your attacks to ensure maximum efficiency. Consider your environment. Utilize the terrain to your advantage. Use cover to protect yourself from enemy fire, and position yourself in a location that provides a clear line of sight. Finally, learn the reload. The Autocannon takes a while to reload, which can leave you vulnerable during intense firefights. Try to find a safe location to reload or use the time to communicate, plan, or re-strategize with your team. Knowing these tips and practicing them regularly will take your Autocannon skills to the next level. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with enough training, you can become a true master of democracy delivery.

Conclusion: Spreading Democracy with the Autocannon

So there you have it, guys! This guide has equipped you with the knowledge and tactics to effectively use the Autocannon in Helldivers 2. Remember that the Autocannon is a powerful weapon that can turn the tide of battle, but it takes practice, strategy, and teamwork to truly master it. Don’t be afraid to experiment, adapt your tactics, and learn from your mistakes. The battlefield is a constantly changing environment, and the best Helldivers are those who can adapt to any situation. Keep practicing, keep spreading democracy, and keep having fun. Now go out there, Helldivers, and show those bugs and robots what Super Earth is all about!