Helldivers: Disarming Unexploded Ordnance Guide
So, you're a Helldiver, huh? Ready to spread some managed democracy across the galaxy? Awesome! But sometimes, in the heat of battle, those pesky bugs or sneaky Automatons leave behind a little... surprise. We're talking about unexploded ordnance (UXO). And guess what? It's your job to deal with it. Don't worry, it’s all part of the Helldiver experience – adventure, excitement, and the occasional near-death experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about disarming UXO in Helldivers, so you can get back to liberating planets safely.
Understanding the Threat: What is UXO?
First things first, let's understand what we're dealing with. Unexploded ordnance, or UXO, refers to explosive weapons that failed to detonate as intended. In the chaotic battlefields of Helldivers, these can be anything from grenades that didn't go off to larger artillery shells that landed with a thud instead of a bang. These things are dangerous, obviously. If you stumble across one and it decides to detonate, well, let's just say your day is going to get a lot shorter. Therefore, knowing how to identify and disarm them is a crucial skill for any aspiring Helldiver.
Identifying UXO can sometimes be tricky, as they can blend in with the environment or be partially buried. Look for objects that resemble grenades, shells, or mines, especially in areas where heavy fighting has occurred. They often have a distinct metallic appearance and may have visible fuses or detonators. If you're unsure, it's always best to err on the side of caution and assume it's dangerous. Remember, no medal is worth blowing yourself to smithereens.
The risk UXO poses extends beyond immediate detonation. They can also trigger chain reactions, setting off nearby explosives or causing structural damage to objectives. In some cases, UXO may be booby-trapped, rigged to explode if tampered with. This is why it's essential to approach UXO with caution and follow proper disarming procedures.
Ignoring UXO is not an option. Leaving them unattended can lead to casualties among your squadmates or compromise mission objectives. Additionally, failing to disarm UXO can result in penalties or mission failure. So, buckle up, Helldiver, because defusing bombs is now part of your job description! Knowing how to handle these situations effectively is what separates a good Helldiver from a pile of smoking armor.
Essential Gear and Skills
Alright, before you go running headfirst into a pile of explosives, let's talk gear and skills. Unfortunately, Helldivers doesn't have a dedicated "disarm UXO" kit. Instead, you'll need to rely on your wits, your observation skills, and a few key Stratagems.
Observation Skills
This is your most important tool. Pay attention to your surroundings. Scan the battlefield for anything that looks out of place. Listen for the telltale ticking sound that some UXO emits. A keen eye can save your life and the lives of your teammates. Train yourself to spot the subtle differences between harmless debris and potentially lethal explosives.
Stratagems
While there's no "disarm" Stratagem, some can be incredibly useful for dealing with UXO indirectly:
- Eagle Airstrike/Orbital Bombardment: Sometimes, the best way to deal with UXO is to blow it up from a safe distance. Call in an airstrike or orbital bombardment to clear a large area. Just make sure you and your team are well out of the blast radius.
- EAT-17 (Expendable Anti-Tank): This single-use rocket launcher is perfect for taking out UXO with precision. It's accurate, packs a punch, and you don't have to get too close. Just aim carefully and let it rip!
- Grenade Launcher: Similar to the EAT-17, the grenade launcher allows you to deal with UXO from a distance. It's not as accurate, but the area-of-effect damage can be useful for clearing multiple UXO at once.
- Shield Generator Pack: Okay, this doesn't directly help you disarm UXO, but it can buy you some time. If you accidentally trigger a UXO, the shield might just save you from the blast.
Teamwork
Never go it alone. Disarming UXO is a team effort. Have one person act as a spotter, watching for enemies and potential hazards. Another person can focus on the UXO itself. Communication is key. Call out any suspicious objects and coordinate your actions.
Step-by-Step Guide: Disarming UXO (Safely…ish)
Okay, Helldivers, listen up! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to disarm UXO. Remember, safety is our… fourth priority, right after spreading democracy, liberating planets, and looking cool in your cape.
- Identify the UXO: As mentioned earlier, carefully examine the object to determine if it is indeed UXO. Look for telltale signs like exposed fuses, damaged casings, or unusual shapes.
- Assess the Situation: Before approaching the UXO, take a moment to assess the surrounding area. Are there any enemies nearby? Are there any other potential hazards? Is the UXO located in a confined space? Knowing the environment is half the battle.
- Approach with Caution: Slowly and carefully approach the UXO. Avoid making any sudden movements or loud noises. Keep your weapon holstered to avoid accidental discharge.
- The Disarming Process (The Risky Part): This is where things get tricky. Unfortunately, there’s no universal “disarm” button in Helldivers. The method depends on the type of UXO you're dealing with. However, here are some general tips:
- Grenades: If it's a grenade, look for the pin. If the pin is still in place, congratulations, you've got a live grenade on your hands. Carefully back away and consider using a Stratagem to detonate it remotely. If the pin is missing, well… run. Alternatively, you might try picking it up and throwing it away from your team, but this is risky and not recommended.
- Shells/Mines: These are more complicated. Look for any exposed wires or fuses. If you see anything that looks like it could be cut, don't cut it! Seriously, unless you're a trained demolitions expert (which, let's be honest, you probably aren't), tampering with these types of UXO is a recipe for disaster. Your best bet is to use a Stratagem to destroy them from a safe distance.
- When in Doubt, Blow it Up: Let's be real, guys. You're Helldivers, not bomb disposal experts. If you're unsure about how to disarm a UXO, the safest option is almost always to blow it up. Call in an airstrike, use an EAT-17, or toss a grenade from a safe distance. Problem solved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most seasoned Helldivers make mistakes when dealing with UXO. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Rushing In: Patience is a virtue, especially when dealing with explosives. Take your time, assess the situation, and plan your approach carefully.
- Ignoring Your Team: Communication is key. Keep your teammates informed of your actions and any potential hazards.
- Tampering with the UXO: Unless you know exactly what you're doing, don't touch anything! Leave the disarming to the professionals (or, you know, a well-placed airstrike).
- Underestimating the Blast Radius: UXO can have a surprisingly large blast radius. Make sure you and your team are well out of the danger zone before detonating it.
Advanced Tactics and Strategies
Once you've mastered the basics of UXO disposal, you can start experimenting with more advanced tactics and strategies:
- Using UXO as Bait: In some situations, you can use UXO to lure enemies into a trap. Place the UXO in a strategic location and wait for the enemy to approach. Then, detonate it remotely to take out a group of unsuspecting foes.
- Creating Diversions: UXO can also be used to create diversions. Detonate a UXO in one location to draw the enemy's attention, then use the opportunity to flank them or complete an objective.
- Combining Stratagems: Experiment with different combinations of Stratagems to maximize your effectiveness. For example, you could use an airstrike to clear a path to the UXO, then use an EAT-17 to destroy it from a safe distance.
Conclusion: Stay Safe Out There, Helldiver!
Dealing with unexploded ordnance is just another day in the life of a Helldiver. It's dangerous, stressful, and requires a cool head. But with the right knowledge, skills, and gear, you can disarm UXO effectively and keep your squad safe. Remember, managed democracy doesn't spread itself! So, get out there, liberate those planets, and try not to blow yourself up in the process.
Now go forth and spread some democracy… carefully! Good luck, Helldivers, and may your aim be true (and your explosions be far, far away from you). Remember, a Helldiver's life is full of excitement, danger, and the constant threat of being blown to bits. But hey, that's what makes it so much fun, right? Keep your wits about you, watch your step, and never underestimate the explosive potential of a discarded grenade. For Super Earth!