Helldivers: Guided Vs. Non-Guided Weapons - Which Is Best?

Hey Helldivers! Figuring out the best loadout in Helldivers can be a real game-changer, especially when it comes to choosing between guided and non-guided weapons. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these differences can seriously up your game against those pesky Terminids and Automatons. Let's dive deep into the world of Helldivers weaponry and break down what makes each type shine.

Guided Weapons: Precision and Lock-On

Guided weapons in Helldivers are all about precision and target acquisition. These bad boys use sophisticated tracking systems to lock onto enemies, ensuring your shots hit their mark, even if the target is moving or you're firing from a distance. This is a massive advantage when dealing with armored targets or enemies that require pinpoint accuracy to take down efficiently. Think of guided weapons as your smart solutions to tough problems.

One of the biggest perks of using guided weapons is their ease of use. Once you lock onto a target, the missile or projectile will adjust its trajectory mid-flight to ensure a hit. This means you don't have to be as precise with your aiming, allowing you to focus on other crucial aspects of combat, like managing your position, coordinating with your team, and staying alive amidst the chaos. Guided weapons are particularly useful in chaotic situations where accurate aiming is difficult.

Moreover, guided weapons often come with additional features that enhance their effectiveness. Some may have multiple lock-on capabilities, allowing you to target several enemies simultaneously. Others might have advanced tracking systems that can differentiate between enemy types, prioritizing the most dangerous threats on the battlefield. This level of sophistication can make a significant difference in high-difficulty missions where efficient crowd control and target prioritization are key to survival. In essence, guided weapons provide a tactical edge by automating some of the aiming process, freeing you up to make strategic decisions. They are perfect for players who appreciate a blend of technology and firepower.

Non-Guided Weapons: Raw Power and Skill

Alright, now let's talk about non-guided weapons. These are your classic, straightforward tools of destruction. What you aim is where they shoot – no fancy lock-on systems or tracking assistance here. This means your skill and precision are paramount. Mastering non-guided weapons requires practice, but the payoff is immense. You gain unparalleled control over your shots, allowing you to target specific weak points on enemies or create devastating environmental effects.

The beauty of non-guided weapons lies in their raw power and versatility. These weapons often pack a bigger punch than their guided counterparts, delivering massive damage with each shot. This is particularly useful against heavily armored enemies or when you need to clear out a large group of weaker foes quickly. Because you're in direct control of the weapon's trajectory, you can also use non-guided weapons to manipulate the environment to your advantage. For example, you can collapse bridges, detonate explosive barrels, or create chokepoints to funnel enemies into kill zones.

Furthermore, non-guided weapons encourage a more active and engaged playstyle. You're not relying on technology to do the work for you; instead, you're constantly honing your aiming skills, learning enemy movement patterns, and making split-second decisions based on the battlefield situation. This can be incredibly rewarding, as each successful shot feels like a testament to your skill and expertise. Non-guided weapons are perfect for players who enjoy a challenge and want to feel a direct connection to their actions in the game. They reward practice and precision, turning you into a true marksman on the battlefield. Plus, there's a certain satisfaction that comes from taking down a massive Automaton Hulk with a perfectly aimed shot from a recoilless rifle – a feeling that guided weapons simply can't replicate.

Guided vs. Non-Guided: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between guided and non-guided weapons really boils down to your play style and the specific mission requirements. Do you prefer the ease and precision of guided systems, or the raw power and control of non-guided options? Let's break it down further to help you make the best decision for your Helldivers loadout.

If you're new to Helldivers or find yourself struggling with aiming in the heat of battle, guided weapons are an excellent choice. They provide a safety net, ensuring your shots hit their mark even when you're under pressure. This can be a lifesaver when dealing with fast-moving targets or enemies that require precise shots to take down. Additionally, guided weapons are great for supporting your team, allowing you to focus on crowd control and target prioritization while your teammates handle other tasks. They also shine in situations where you need to engage enemies from a distance, providing accurate fire support without exposing yourself to unnecessary risk. For those who value efficiency and ease of use, guided weapons are a solid pick.

On the other hand, if you're an experienced player with a steady aim and a penchant for destruction, non-guided weapons might be more your style. These weapons reward skill and precision, allowing you to take down enemies with devastating efficiency. They're perfect for tackling heavily armored targets or clearing out large groups of weaker foes. Non-guided weapons also offer more versatility, allowing you to manipulate the environment and create tactical advantages on the battlefield. If you enjoy a challenge and want to feel a direct connection to your actions in the game, non-guided weapons are the way to go. They require practice and dedication, but the payoff is immense, turning you into a force to be reckoned with on the Helldivers battlefield.

Ultimately, the best approach is to experiment with both types of weapons and see what works best for you. Each mission presents unique challenges, and having a well-rounded arsenal will ensure you're prepared for anything the game throws your way. Consider your team composition as well – a mix of guided and non-guided weapons can provide a balanced and effective fighting force. So get out there, try different loadouts, and find what makes you the most effective Helldiver you can be!

Top Guided Weapon Choices

When it comes to guided weapons, a few stand out as top-tier choices for Helldivers. These weapons offer a blend of accuracy, damage, and utility that makes them invaluable assets on the battlefield. Here are some of the best:

• Recoilless Rifle: Okay, I know I said it's non-guided earlier, but hear me out! While the standard shot is unguided, equipping a backpack allows a teammate to lock-on and guide the rocket. The Recoilless Rifle is a powerhouse against armored targets. Its guided mode allows for precision strikes against heavily armored enemies like Tanks and Hulks. The sheer destructive power of the Recoilless Rifle, combined with guided assistance, makes it a must-have for dealing with the toughest threats. Plus, coordinating with a teammate to guide the rocket adds a fun and strategic element to combat. The feeling of teamwork and coordinated destruction is unmatched! The Recoilless Rifle rewards communication and tactical play, making it a favorite among seasoned Helldivers.
• EAT-17: The EAT-17 (Expendable Anti-Tank) is your go-to for dealing with heavily armored threats quickly and efficiently. This single-use weapon locks onto vehicles and heavily armored enemies, delivering a devastating blow that can take them down in one shot. While it lacks the versatility of some other options, its sheer stopping power makes it invaluable in situations where you need to eliminate a high-priority target immediately. Think of it as your panic button for dealing with those pesky tanks! The EAT-17's ease of use and guaranteed impact make it a popular choice for players who want a reliable solution for armored threats without having to worry about aiming or trajectory. Just lock on, fire, and watch the fireworks!
• Spear: For those who like to engage enemies from long range, the Spear is an excellent choice. This shoulder-mounted missile launcher can lock onto targets from a considerable distance, allowing you to take out enemies before they even know you're there. Its high damage output and long range make it perfect for dealing with heavily armored targets or clearing out nests and factories from afar. The Spear provides a tactical advantage by allowing you to control the battlefield and eliminate threats before they can pose a danger to your team. It requires a bit of practice to master the lock-on mechanics, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to rain down destruction from afar with pinpoint accuracy.

Top Non-Guided Weapon Choices

If you prefer the challenge and control of non-guided weapons, several options stand out as top performers. These weapons reward skill and precision, allowing you to take down enemies with devastating efficiency. Here are some of the best:

• Railgun: The Railgun is a high-powered weapon that fires a single, devastating projectile. It requires careful aiming and timing, but the payoff is immense. A well-placed shot from the Railgun can penetrate armor and take down even the toughest enemies. Its versatility and raw power make it a favorite among experienced Helldivers. The Railgun is all about precision and control. You need to charge your shots carefully to maximize their damage output, and you need to aim precisely to hit your target's weak points. But when you land that perfect shot, you'll be rewarded with a satisfying explosion and a dead enemy. The Railgun is perfect for players who enjoy a challenge and want to feel a direct connection to their actions in the game.
• Autocannon: The Autocannon is a rapid-firing weapon that delivers a steady stream of explosive rounds. It's perfect for dealing with groups of enemies or suppressing armored targets. Its high rate of fire and explosive damage make it a versatile and effective choice for a variety of combat situations. The Autocannon is all about sustained firepower. You can use it to mow down hordes of enemies, suppress armored targets, or even destroy structures. Its versatility and high rate of fire make it a valuable asset on any Helldivers team. The Autocannon is easy to use but difficult to master. You need to manage your ammo carefully and control your recoil to maximize its effectiveness.
• Grenade Launcher: For crowd control and area denial, the Grenade Launcher is hard to beat. This weapon fires explosive grenades that detonate on impact, dealing damage to enemies in a wide radius. It's perfect for clearing out nests, destroying structures, or creating chokepoints to funnel enemies into kill zones. The Grenade Launcher is all about area denial and crowd control. You can use it to clear out nests, destroy structures, or create chokepoints to funnel enemies into kill zones. Its versatility and explosive damage make it a valuable asset on any Helldivers team. The Grenade Launcher requires careful aiming and timing, but the payoff is immense. A well-placed grenade can wipe out an entire squad of enemies or destroy a critical structure.

Final Thoughts: Experiment and Adapt

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether guided or non-guided weapons are right for you is to experiment and adapt. Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice will depend on your play style, your team composition, and the specific mission requirements. So get out there, try different loadouts, and find what works best for you. And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and spread democracy throughout the galaxy!