The Arc Thrower in Helldivers 2 is one of those weapons that sparks endless debate in the community. Some swear by its chain-lightning destruction, while others think it’s too situational. But when paired with the right loadout, the Arc Thrower becomes a powerhouse capable of shredding through both swarms of enemies and high-tier armor. Below are ten loadouts that elevate the Arc Thrower into a must-use weapon.
1. Arc Thrower + Guard Dog Rover
This setup balances offense and defense. The Guard Dog provides extra firepower while the Arc Thrower clears clustered enemies. It’s particularly effective in dense hives or against bots where stray shots can bounce to multiple targets.
2. Arc Thrower + EAT-17 Launcher
The Thrower takes care of light and medium enemies, while the launcher deals with tanks and chargers. This loadout is a reliable all-rounder if you want to handle every threat type without needing constant backup.
3. Arc Thrower + Supply Pack
Ammo-hungry players will love this combo. The Arc Thrower eats through charges quickly, and the Supply Pack keeps you topped up. It’s especially useful on extended missions where resources are scarce.
4. Arc Thrower + Orbital Laser
When you need raw destruction, the Orbital Laser covers your weaknesses. Use the Thrower to slow down or thin out waves while saving the laser for massive bosses or fortified enemy positions.
5. Arc Thrower + Shield Generator Pack
Durability is key here. The Shield Pack gives you the breathing room to get close enough for the Arc Thrower to do maximum damage. This combo works wonders in close-quarters or defensive missions.
6. Arc Thrower + EMS Mortar Sentry
Crowd control is the name of the game. The EMS Mortar slows down enemies, making it easier to chain lightning across clusters. This loadout excels in multiplayer sessions where teammates capitalize on immobilized enemies.
7. Arc Thrower + Railgun
A high-skill pairing, but devastating when executed well. The Arc Thrower softens groups, while the Railgun takes out priority heavy targets. Together, they cover nearly every battlefield scenario.
8. Arc Thrower + Autocannon
For players who love heavy support fire, the Autocannon provides sustainable damage at range while the Arc Thrower dominates up close. This combination is flexible for both defensive and offensive missions.
9. Arc Thrower + Recoilless Rifle
This pairing is for precision players. The Thrower controls swarms, and the Recoilless Rifle destroys armor. With good positioning, this loadout can carry entire squads through tougher missions.
10. Arc Thrower + Orbital Railcannon Strike
Save the big guns for emergencies. The Orbital Railcannon Strike deletes priority threats instantly, while the Arc Thrower provides sustained close-range power. This setup gives you a strong balance between consistency and burst damage.
The Arc Thrower can feel like a niche weapon at first, but these loadouts prove it’s more versatile than many players think. Experimenting with different combinations will help you find the perfect setup for your playstyle. Whether you’re farming resources, experimenting with squad synergy, or just enjoying the chaos, the right pairing can make a huge difference.
For those looking to speed up progression, some players choose to buy Helldivers 2 super credits or pick up cheap Helldivers 2 medals to unlock stratagems faster. Communities like U4GM are often mentioned by veterans when discussing efficient progression routes, but ultimately, gameplay skill and smart loadouts will define your success on the battlefield.