Helldivers 2 has quickly earned a reputation for being chaotic, punishing, and endlessly fun. But for newcomers, that same chaos can easily lead to repeated mission failures and plenty of frustration. Whether you’re diving into enemy territory solo or with a squad, knowing what not to do is just as important as learning the right strategies. Below, we break down the Top 10 Beginner Mistakes to Avoid in Helldivers 2 so you can maximize your survival and actually bring democracy to the galaxy.

1. Ignoring Stratagem Timing

Many new players panic-drop stratagems without considering positioning or timing. Calling down an airstrike directly on your squad’s location is one of the quickest ways to sabotage a mission. Always clear some space before deploying, and remember that precision matters.

2. Forgetting Friendly Fire

One of the most defining mechanics of Helldivers 2 is friendly fire. Spray-and-pray tactics or careless grenade throws often do more harm than good. Communicate with your squad, aim carefully, and always account for allies before pulling the trigger.

3. Hoarding Supplies

New players often hesitate to use support weapons, ammo drops, or medical supplies, trying to "save them for later." This usually results in getting overwhelmed and dying with unused resources. Use what you need, when you need it.

4. Running Off Alone

It’s tempting to wander off for side objectives or collectibles, but splitting from your squad almost always ends badly. Staying close ensures you can revive one another and concentrate firepower when swarms close in.

5. Overestimating Solo Power

Some rookies treat Helldivers 2 like a traditional shooter, assuming they can gun through everything alone. In reality, teamwork is the backbone of success. Learn your role in the squad, whether it’s heavy fire support, defense, or crowd control.

6. Ignoring Objectives

Getting caught up in endless bug-slaying is easy, but missions have goals for a reason. Failing to prioritize objectives not only wastes time but can also lead to failed operations. Always keep an eye on mission progress and push toward completion.

7. Mismanaging Extractions

Extraction zones are notorious kill zones. New players often rush in unprepared, triggering swarms they can’t handle. Before calling for extraction, fortify your position, lay down turrets or mines, and coordinate with your squad.

8. Not Learning Enemy Patterns

Charging into battles without understanding enemy behavior is a classic rookie error. Each faction in Helldivers 2 has unique attack patterns, weak points, and tactics. Take the time to learn them, and you’ll die far less often.

9. Forgetting to Reload Strategically

Constantly reloading at the wrong moment leaves you defenseless. Beginners often get caught mid-reload while surrounded. Always reload after a firefight and communicate with your squad so you’re not all vulnerable at the same time.

10. Panicking Under Pressure

Perhaps the biggest beginner mistake is losing composure when chaos erupts. Screaming bugs, incoming artillery, and collapsing defenses can overwhelm new players. The key is to stay calm, prioritize threats, and remember that coordination always beats panic.

The beauty of Helldivers 2 is that mistakes are part of the learning curve, and failure often leads to hilarious moments with your squad. By avoiding these top beginner pitfalls, you’ll find yourself surviving longer, completing missions more effectively, and—most importantly—having way more fun. The galaxy won’t liberate itself, so suit up, coordinate with your team, and dive in prepared.