Helldivers 2 Players Are Loving the Revamped Ballistic Shield

gamerant.com:

Helldivers 2 players are currently enjoying the Ballistic Shield, which received several buffs in the recent update. The Ballistic Shield in Helldivers 2, as its name implies, is a defense gear that protects the wielder from incoming attacks. This stratagem blocks regular laser shots from the front, but it's unable to withstand many explosive attacks. Players can unlock the Ballistic Shield with 6,000 Requisition Slips after reaching level 12.

Arrowhead recently dropped an update for Helldivers 2, bringing several important changes to some fan-favorite weapons. The latest patch for the third-person shooter reduced the Slugger's demolition force, stagger impact, and damage, which has sparked debate amongst the player base. What's more, it reduced the Heavy Machine Gun's highest fire rate by roughly 30%, putting the drum-fed gun at a disadvantage in comparison to the other weapons.

One of these balance changes has made the Ballistic Shield a more useful stratagem, according to some Helldivers 2 players on Reddit. Now, the shield has a larger collision mesh and offers a greater coverage, which means it covers more of the wielder's body. It reportedly increases players' survivability, blocking many regular laser shots and bug spits. Moreover, the Ballistic Shield has a small use against melee attacks, given that it blocks a portion of melee attack damage.

One player known on Reddit as KaZlsTaken indicated that the Ballistic Shield pairs well with the SMG-37 Defender, one of the best primary weapons in Helldivers 2. Another shield user, who goes by LetAcceptable5091, confirmed the T-posing animation bug that occurs when picking up samples is now fixed.

Helldivers 2 features an assortment of stratagems, which serve as abilities players can utilize in the heat of battle. They are called down from the orbiting ship during missions and unlocked with Requisition Slips, valuable materials that can be obtained from missions and objectives. Each stratagem has a unique function.