Helldivers 2 has brought a lot of new tools to the table, but few feel as satisfying as the RL-77 Airburst Rocket Launcher. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most out of this explosive powerhouse, this guide will walk you through some practical tips and personal insights that can give you an edge on the battlefield.
Why Should You Consider the RL-77 for Your Loadout?
What makes the RL-77 stand out compared to other heavy weapons?
The airburst mechanic allows your rockets to detonate mid-air, making it ideal for dealing with groups of enemies hiding behind cover. Unlike direct-hit explosives, the RL-77 gives you a little margin for error—you don’t have to be a perfect shot to clear a cluster of foes. Personally, I find it particularly fun to use against waves of automatons that swarm in tight formations; the satisfaction of a perfectly timed mid-air explosion is hard to beat.
If you’re planning to invest in your Helldivers arsenal, this is one weapon that pairs well with both aggressive and defensive strategies. For players looking to maximize their resources, it can also make sense to buy Helldivers 2 super credits to unlock or upgrade this launcher faster, especially if you want to avoid grinding through repetitive missions just to get access.
How Do You Aim and Fire Effectively?
Is it enough to just point and shoot? Not quite.
The RL-77’s airburst rockets require a slightly different mindset. Because the explosion occurs mid-air, you need to think about trajectory and timing. Try aiming just above a cluster of enemies, so the rocket detonates at their height rather than hitting the ground. In practice, this often means leading your shots slightly ahead of moving targets.
A small tip I’ve picked up from experience: don’t panic when surrounded. The RL-77 has a forgiving blast radius, so even a rough aim can clear space and give you breathing room. This makes it an excellent option for solo runs or missions where backup might be slow to arrive.
Can the RL-77 Handle Boss Encounters?
Short answer: yes, with caution.
Against bigger targets, the RL-77 doesn’t hit as hard as some dedicated anti-boss weapons, but its consistent area damage can chip away health safely from a distance. The key is to stay mobile; airburst rockets are effective at forcing bosses to move, letting you control the battlefield instead of getting cornered. Pair it with other high-damage tools like the Eagle Stratagem or Minigun combos for a well-rounded loadout.
If you find yourself needing resources to keep these weapons at top performance, there are options to pick up cheap Helldivers 2 medals from reliable services. This can help you upgrade your gear faster without the grind, keeping your loadout competitive even in late-game missions.
Should You Use the RL-77 in Team Missions?
Absolutely, but coordination is key.
The RL-77 is a crowd-control dream, but friendly fire can be brutal. Always communicate with your squad about when you’re about to launch, and try to time airbursts to clear chokepoints rather than just spraying into open areas. A fun strategy I’ve found is to lead the enemy into tight corridors and then detonate mid-air for maximum efficiency—it often feels like orchestrating a mini fireworks show.
For players who are careful about resource management, platforms like U4GM can offer ways to safely acquire upgrades or in-game currency, allowing you to focus more on strategy than farming endlessly for the next level of firepower.
Quick Tips for Mastery
Practice trajectory: It takes a bit to get used to how high to aim for optimal blasts.
Use as crowd control: Perfect for clearing swarms before they reach your team.
Pair with mobility: Keep moving; the RL-77 works best when you can reposition quickly.
Upgrade wisely: Prioritize ammo capacity and blast radius enhancements for more reliable performance.
The RL-77 Airburst Rocket Launcher is one of the most versatile heavy weapons in Helldivers 2. Whether you’re soloing missions or coordinating with a team, its ability to hit multiple targets safely from a distance makes it a standout choice. By learning its quirks and pairing it with the right upgrades, you’ll find yourself handling swarms and boss fights more confidently than ever.
And remember, while practicing and upgrading are important, a little creativity and timing can turn even the trickiest mission into a fun, explosive experience.
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