Clearing a full map in Helldivers 2 isn’t just about firepower — it’s about strategy, coordination, and preparation. As a long-time player with dozens of full-map clears under my belt, I’ve learned that success comes from a combination of sharp tactics, the right gear, and knowing when to adapt. Whether you’re leading a squad or joining as support, these ten tips can help you push for that satisfying full-map clear, even on the toughest difficulty settings.
1. Prioritize Stratagems That Suit the Mission
Stratagems can make or break a run. Always tailor your loadout to the type of biome and enemy faction you’re facing. Against Automatons, EMP-based stratagems are gold. For bugs, incendiary options work wonders. Personally, I never drop into a mission without a Resupply Stratagem and at least one high-damage weapon drop like the Autocannon.
2. Communicate Constantly With Your Squad
In my experience, most failed missions come down to one thing: poor communication. Use voice or quick-chat commands to stay coordinated. If you’re pushing a full map clear, everyone needs to know the plan — who’s covering flanks, who’s watching the rear, and when to hit objectives.
3. Clear Objectives With a Plan
Don’t rush objectives one by one. Clear nearby patrols first, then decide whether to take on bonus objectives based on your team’s condition and time remaining. I’ve found that moving clockwise or counter-clockwise around the map helps maintain structure and avoid backtracking.
4. Use Terrain to Your Advantage
High ground gives you visibility. Choke points can help control enemy flow. In one memorable mission, my squad used a cliffside bottleneck to hold off waves of Terminids while calling in extraction. Don’t just run and gun — think tactically.
5. Upgrade Your Armor Wisely
Armor isn’t just cosmetic. The right armor can change your survivability and mobility in critical ways. I strongly recommend investing your Helldivers 2 Super Credits for armor upgrades buy now if you haven’t already. Speed-focused armor helps with kiting, while heavy armor gives you a second chance in intense fights.
6. Complete Bonus Objectives Only If Time Allows
It’s tempting to max out your rewards, but a full-map clear is meaningless if you fail the final extraction. I’ve had to cut bonus objectives short more than once to make it to the evac zone in time. Always keep an eye on the mission timer.
7. Manage Your Ammo
Ammo discipline is key. Don’t reload after every few shots. I once ran dry halfway through a boss fight because I burned through supplies too fast. Always know where your resupply stratagems are, and space them out across the map if possible.
8. Keep Super Credits in Mind
Full-map clears often yield high-value loot, including Super Credits, which are essential for gear and weapon purchases. I usually aim for one or two high-value targets on the map that drop Super Credits before I begin my primary objective. It’s a good way to passively earn currency without taking unnecessary risks.
9. Revive Smartly
It’s easy to panic and rush to revive a teammate, but that often leads to two Helldivers down instead of one. Use smoke, terrain, or even distractions like a turret drop to give you cover. I’ve lost count of how many missions were saved by smart, patient revives.
10. Practice Makes Pro
Don’t get discouraged by early failures. Full-map clears are the pinnacle of Helldivers 2 gameplay and demand real coordination and game knowledge. Each failed attempt teaches something new — from enemy spawn patterns to timing extraction perfectly. Stick with it, and the satisfaction of a flawless full clear is worth every retry.
Whether you’re grinding for gear or pushing boundaries with friends, full-map clears are where Helldivers 2 shines. Equip well, plan smart, and don’t hesitate to spend your Super Credits on the right upgrades — they often make the difference between a wipe and a win. See you in the trenches, Helldiver.
