In Helldivers 2, while many energy-based weapons serve various purposes, the LAS-5 Dagger, LAS-16 Sickle, and PLAS-1 Scorcher stand out as the top contenders for effectiveness and utility across diverse combat scenarios. There isn't a single "best" weapon, as their optimal use depends heavily on the mission, enemy type, and personal playstyle.
Top Energy Weapons in Helldivers 2
These three energy weapons consistently outperform their competition due to their unique advantages, offering Helldivers superior firepower and tactical flexibility on the battlefield. Understanding their strengths is key to maximizing your impact against the enemies of Super Earth.
Here’s a quick overview of why these weapons are highly regarded:
Weapon | Type | Key Strength | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
LAS-16 Sickle | Primary | Sustained damage, infinite ammo (heat-based) | Clearing swarms, sustained fire on medium targets |
PLAS-1 Scorcher | Primary | Explosive damage, armor penetration | Armored enemies, groups, strategic explosive impact |
LAS-5 Dagger | Secondary | Infinite ammo (heat-based), compact | Clearing small enemies, last resort, utility |
LAS-16 Sickle: The Versatile Primary
The LAS-16 Sickle is an energy-based assault rifle that functions without needing reloads, relying instead on a heat mechanic. This makes it incredibly efficient for sustained engagements and eliminating large groups of smaller enemies.
- Infinite Ammo: As long as you manage its heat, the Sickle never runs out of ammunition, making it an excellent choice for long missions or when supply drops are scarce.
- High Rate of Fire: It delivers consistent damage quickly, ideal for suppressing enemy advances or taking down medium-sized threats.
- Effective Against Hordes: Its ability to fire continuously makes it a superb weapon for clearing out swarms of Terminids or engaging multiple Automatons.
PLAS-1 Scorcher: Explosive Powerhouse
The PLAS-1 Scorcher is a powerful primary weapon that fires explosive plasma projectiles. This makes it incredibly effective against armored targets and groups of enemies, capable of dealing splash damage that can clear out multiple foes with a single shot.
- Explosive Damage: Each shot detonates on impact, dealing significant damage in an area. This is invaluable for breaking apart enemy formations.
- Armor Penetration: The Scorcher's explosive nature allows it to bypass some lighter armor, making it a good choice for dealing with moderately armored foes.
- Strategic Utility: It can destroy enemy structures or close bug holes from a distance, adding a layer of tactical depth to your loadout. However, caution is advised as its explosive nature means friendly fire or self-damage is a risk in close quarters.
LAS-5 Dagger: Reliable Secondary
Often overlooked due to its secondary slot, the LAS-5 Dagger laser pistol is an incredibly reliable sidearm. Like the Sickle, it operates on a heat mechanic, providing infinite ammunition.
- Emergency Backup: It serves as a dependable secondary weapon when your primary runs dry or you need a quick, precise shot without reloading.
- Clearing Small Threats: Perfect for dealing with minor enemies that slip through your defenses, saving your primary weapon's heat or ammunition for larger targets.
- Resource Efficient: Its infinite ammo makes it an excellent tool for conserving primary weapon resources, especially useful during extended engagements or when pushing objectives.
Choosing the Right Energy Weapon
The "best" energy weapon ultimately depends on the specific challenges you face.
- For all-around versatility and sustained combat, the LAS-16 Sickle is an exceptional choice.
- For dealing with armored targets and clearing groups with explosive force, the PLAS-1 Scorcher is unparalleled.
- For a reliable backup and resource management, the LAS-5 Dagger is an invaluable secondary.
Consider your team's composition, the mission objectives, and the enemy types you expect to encounter to make the most informed decision for your Helldivers 2 loadout.