The Arc Thrower is one of the most versatile tools in Helldivers 2. Its ability to chain lightning through enemies makes it a crowd-control powerhouse, especially against swarms of bots and bugs. However, to get the most out of it, you need the right build that balances survivability, utility, and firepower. Below are five Arc Thrower builds that can help you dominate missions and keep your squad alive.
1. The Crowd Control Specialist
This build focuses on maximizing the Arc Thrower’s strength in handling hordes. Pair the Arc Thrower with the Breaker shotgun for close-quarters defense. Add a supply stratagem for ammo and a shield backpack for protection. This combination allows you to clear waves while staying safe in tight spaces.
2. The Boss Support Build
While the Arc Thrower isn’t the best single-target weapon, it excels at handling adds during boss fights. Pair it with a Quasar Cannon or Railgun to deal with heavy targets while the Arc Thrower handles smaller enemies. Consider adding a healing stratagem so you can support teammates while keeping the battlefield clear.
3. The Mobile Skirmisher
For players who prefer speed, combine the Arc Thrower with lightweight armor and a versatile sidearm like the Senator pistol. Bring in an Orbital Strike stratagem for quick disengagement when surrounded. This build is all about mobility—hit, run, and let the lightning chain through groups while you reposition.
4. The Defensive Anchor
If you enjoy holding positions, the Arc Thrower pairs perfectly with defensive stratagems. Set up autocannons or minefields, then use the Arc Thrower to keep enemies at bay while your defenses do the heavy lifting. This setup shines during extraction missions or waypoint defenses where survival is more important than pushing forward quickly.
5. The Hybrid Damage Dealer
Sometimes you need balance. Equip the Arc Thrower with a mid-range rifle like the Liberator or Diligence. This lets you handle swarms and still contribute to picking off enemies at distance. Add in resupply and orbital stratagems for flexibility, making this build ideal for squads that need a jack-of-all-trades.
The Arc Thrower can fit into nearly any squad composition if used correctly. It’s not just about zapping enemies—it’s about creating space, protecting your team, and turning chaos into order. Whether you lean toward support, offense, or defense, these builds give you different ways to maximize its potential.
For players looking to expand their gear options, some choose to buy Helldivers 2 super credits to unlock cosmetics or new weapons faster. Others also buy Helldivers 2 items U4GM when they want quick access to upgrades. While not necessary, platforms like U4GM exist for those who want to speed up progression.