Helldivers 2 Arc Thrower PvP and PvE Meta Builds

[icyriftstorm]

Helldivers 2 continues to impress with its high-intensity cooperative gameplay and the sheer variety of weapons that cater to different playstyles. Among the arsenal, the Arc Thrower stands out as a versatile choice, capable of dealing consistent energy damage while crowd-controlling enemies in both PvP and PvE scenarios. In this guide, I’ll break down the current meta builds for the Arc Thrower, along with some practical tips on how to maximize its effectiveness.

PvE Arc Thrower Build

In PvE, the Arc Thrower excels at controlling large groups of enemies while supporting your squad. The key here is balancing damage output with utility. For the meta build, I prioritize upgrades that increase the weapon’s chain lightning range and damage per tick. A moderate cooling enhancement is also crucial, as overheating can leave you vulnerable during intense waves.

Pairing the Arc Thrower with supportive Stratagems like mines or automated turrets allows you to control choke points and manage elite mobs more efficiently. Don’t forget that investing in squad-wide buffs or perks that increase your energy weapon damage can significantly enhance your clearing speed.

For players looking to enhance their loadout further, you can buy helldivers 2 items that complement the Arc Thrower, such as defensive gear and ammo resupply modules, which make prolonged missions much safer.

PvP Arc Thrower Build

When it comes to PvP, positioning and timing are everything. The Arc Thrower’s ability to chain between multiple targets makes it lethal in small skirmishes, but you’ll need to focus on mobility and burst damage rather than prolonged firing. The meta PvP build emphasizes faster charge rates and increased chain penetration, allowing you to hit multiple opponents without giving them a chance to retaliate.

A tactical approach is to use cover and environmental hazards to amplify the Arc Thrower’s effect, forcing enemies into tight spaces where your lightning can hit multiple targets. Combining it with temporary shields or speed boosts helps you survive encounters that would otherwise overwhelm you.

For those who want to save time progressing through PvP and acquiring rare equipment, it’s possible to buy helldivers 2 super credits online, which can then be used to unlock premium upgrades and cosmetics for your preferred build.


Whether you’re running cooperative missions or competing against other players, the Arc Thrower remains a solid choice for Helldivers 2, provided you tailor your build to the situation. PvE favors sustained damage and utility, while PvP requires agility and burst potential. By understanding the weapon’s strengths and upgrading strategically, you can dominate the battlefield in any scenario.

Keeping your loadout updated with complementary items and credits ensures that you’re always prepared for the next mission or skirmish. The Arc Thrower is a weapon that rewards experimentation, so don’t be afraid to tweak your build based on your squad’s composition and the challenges you face.