Helldivers 2 Update: Stun Baton, Stun Lance And How to Get the Stun Baton

Key Takeaways

1. Exciting Melee Additions: Helldivers 2 introduces the CQC-30 Stun Baton and CQC-19 Stun Lance, adding variety and tactics to the game’s arsenal.
2. New Enemy Faction – The Illuminate: Players face off against powerful psychic enemies, intimidating walkers, and zombie-like hordes in dynamic battles.
3. Enhanced Gameplay Options: The update delivers a rich gameplay experience with melee weapons, urban battlefields, and a new vehicle for squad-based combat.

A Shocking New Arsenal: Stun Baton and Stun Lance

Helldivers 2 has answered player demands with the introduction of melee weapons, giving players more options to engage enemies up close and personal. The CQC-30 Stun Baton and CQC-19 Stun Lance are standout additions, bringing a unique combat dynamic to the secondary weapon slot.

The Stun Baton, available in the superstore for 200 super credits, is perfect for crowd control with its wide, sweeping attacks. This makes it ideal for locking down multiple enemies in tight situations. On the other hand, the Stun Lance, part of the Urban Legends Warbond pack (priced at 1000 super credits), offers greater range and precise targeting, making it a great tool for singling out dangerous foes.

Both weapons occupy the secondary weapon slot, replacing sidearms like pistols. These melee options can be paired with Stratagems like the Ballistic Shield, adding versatility to player strategies.

The Illuminate: A Formidable New Enemy

The latest update also introduces a terrifying new faction: the Illuminate, a fleet of alien invaders with a penchant for psychic abilities and overwhelming firepower.

What Makes the Illuminate Unique?

1. Enemy Variety: From zombified humans called Voteless to heavy units like the Bile Titan and Factory Walker, the Illuminate bring a diverse arsenal to the battlefield.
2. Psychic Threats: Unlike the fast-paced Bugs or the mechanical precision of the Cyborgs, the Illuminate rely on slow, deliberate psychic abilities that can turn the tide of battle in their favor.
3. High-Stakes Combat: Their walkers and UFOs appear even at lower difficulties, suggesting players will face steep challenges no matter their skill level.

The Illuminate’s zombie-like Voteless units evoke the eerie Husks from the Mass Effect series, adding an extra layer of tension to battles. With these new foes, players are constantly on their toes, adapting strategies to survive.

Urban Battlefields and Vehicles

Adding to the excitement is the inclusion of urban combat zones and a new rideable vehicle. These features enhance squad-based gameplay, letting players experiment with different tactics and explore diverse environments. Whether navigating tight city streets or defending against Illuminate hordes in open fields, players can experience more dynamic and immersive battles.

Warbond Packs: Are They Worth It?

The introduction of melee weapons through Warbond packs and premium shops has sparked debate within the community. The Urban Legends Warbond pack, priced at 1000 super credits, offers additional weapons, armor, and Stratagems. While some players appreciate the convenience, others argue that these packs verge on pay-to-win territory.

For players uninterested in full Warbond bundles, the Stun Baton provides a more affordable option at 200 super credits. This makes it easier for players to experiment with melee combat without investing in a full package.

Gameplay Insights: Stun Baton vs. Stun Lance

Here’s a quick breakdown of how these melee weapons compare:

• Stun Baton: Wide arc attacks for effective crowd control. Great for handling multiple enemies at close range.
• Stun Lance: Longer range and precise stabs, ideal for targeting individual enemies or dealing with heavily armored foes.

Players also note visual issues, such as melee weapons clipping through primary weapons when equipped. While minor, these details can detract from immersion.

What’s Next for Helldivers 2?

The Illuminate faction appears to have more surprises in store. Their heavy units already appear at lower difficulties, hinting at the arrival of even more powerful enemies in future updates.

Additionally, the introduction of melee weapons opens the door for expanded combat mechanics, possibly including new types of melee-focused Stratagems or hybrid weaponry.

FAQs

1. Are the new melee weapons worth the investment?
Absolutely! Both the Stun Baton and Stun Lance provide unique advantages in combat. Choose the Baton for crowd control and the Lance for precision and range.

2. Can I use the Stun Baton or Stun Lance as a primary weapon?
No, both weapons occupy the secondary weapon slot, replacing pistols or other sidearms.

3. What’s the best way to counter the Illuminate faction?
Adaptability is key. Equip a mix of ranged and melee weapons, and use Stratagems like the Ballistic Shield to block psychic attacks while engaging in close combat.

4. Do the new Warbond packs give a gameplay advantage?
The Warbond packs provide early access to weapons and gear, which some argue could be seen as pay-to-win. However, all items can eventually be earned through gameplay.

5. Will there be more melee weapons in the future?
It’s likely! The addition of a melee category suggests that more weapons will follow in future updates.