How to Defend Against the Squids Like a Pro in Helldivers 2’s Major Order

By Andrew Jones 09/25/2025
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The latest Major Order in Helldivers 2 is all about holding down Illuminate (while DSS gets coated). Helldivers are tasked with holding 3 planets: Alaraph, Hydrobius, and Kalria (also Hellmire). As always, squids bring their frustrating shields, and this time we have to hold multiple planets.

This is the time to concentrate and not get complacent. Holding these planets will take some serious commitment, as squids are anything but squishy, unfortunately. Here’s how Helldivers can hold their ground against Illuminate for the long stretch.

Top Loadouts to Hold off Illuminate In Helldivers 2





In every Major Order, loadouts play a major role, and this MO is not different. The Illuminate may rely on shields and overwhelming you, but the right weapons and stratagems can cut straight through their defenses.

Whether you prefer a balanced setup for better survival or high-impact items for maximum chaos, these two loadouts will give your squad the edge.

Loadout 1 is for balanced suppression and crowd control

This build is about having flexibility: Purifier will help you cut through lighter units (with charged shots, even heavy ones), Ultimatum for taking out ships, and Gas grenade for crowd control. The Gatling Sentry and Commando provide covering fire, while the Hover Pack gives maneuverability.

Loadout 2 is for the players who love high damage and quick escapes

This loadout leans into high damage and mobility. The Scorcher is the main show here, as it outputs strong burst damage to even take tougher Illuminate units, while the Dagger becomes your handy second partner. The 500 kg bomb handles heavy targets, and the Warp Pack helps reposition and escape danger.

5 Tactical Tips to Outsmart the Squids

Just having the best weapons and loadout doesn’t turn the battle into easy mode in Helldivers 2. Here, information about the enemies is key, especially according to the strengths and weaknesses of your loadout.

So, to complement the loadout and dominate the Illuminate, follow these 5 strategic pointers when holding them off:

Do you think this Major Order will be tougher than the last? Comment below to let us know.