Helldivers 2 started the year off with a bang, surprising many with its exciting, action-packed third-person gameplay. In the fight to defend Super Earth, Helldivers 2 players need the best loadout possible in order to successfully take down the threats of Terminids and Automatons. A solid balance between one’s Primary and Secondary weapons is essential to becoming as effective as possible in combat.
While many players have their own specific preferences, there is something to be said about the incredible versatility of the GP-31 Grenade Pistol. Although this sidearm may not always be the perfect choice, Helldivers 2 has some serious work cut out for it if it wants to bring forth a comparable Secondary. Now that Helldivers 2 is closing in on its first anniversary in February, there will hopefully be a new weapon that can compete with the diversity of the GP-31 Grenade Pistol planned for the future.
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Helldivers 2’s GP-31 Grenade Pistol Offers a Fun Blend of Flexibility and Effective Damage
A Powerful Medium-Ranged Weapon
One of the main reasons many players gravitate toward the GP-31 is because it offers flexibility with one’s grenade slot. In place of regular grenades, utilizing Smoke and Stun grenades in this slot can bring an immense amount of extra power into one’s loadout. The pistol itself serves as a main source of basic explosives, so the GP-31 can offer more options for players to complete objectives. Furthermore, the sidearm is a great way to destroy structures.
Since the pistol’s ammo doesn’t use up a grenade slot, destroying bug holes and armored enemies can be dealt with more effectively. Helldivers 2 boasts a variety of strong Secondary options, but the GP-31 was hailed as a game-changer when it first arrived. However, not everything is perfect with the weapon.
The GP-31 Grenade Pistol arrived in
Helldivers 2
in April with the Democratic Detonation Premium Warbond.
Cons of the GP-31 Grenade Pistol
- Single-shot
- Low ammo capacity
- Bad for close-range encounters
The main limiting factors of the weapon are meant to keep the pistol balanced in combat, but it can also be frustrating. It wouldn’t be fair to be able to use a grenade-launching pistol as much as one pleases, but the GP-31’s limits can definitely be felt when backed into a corner. The combination of being a single-shot weapon with low capacity makes it necessary to only use it when it’s vital to the situation. However, when it is utilized properly, it’s incredibly satisfying. Warbonds can bring some compelling gameplay shake-ups, like the new Dead Sprint booster, and the GP-31 struck a chord with many players.
One aspect that can be even more frustrating than its low capacity, though, is its inability to be a good close-range weapon. The battlefields of Helldivers 2 can be brutal, and players can easily terminate themselves if they aren’t careful. If the GP-31 Grenade Pistol is used as a close-range weapon, prepare to be turned into a pile of ash as ricochets ensue.
Helldivers 2 Should Attempt to Knock the GP-31 Grenade Pistol From Its Pedestal
Awaiting a Secondary Weapon With as Much Versatility
Due to its live-service nature, updates to Helldivers 2 arrive regularly and changes to its weapons can either help or hinder gameplay. Possible updates to currently existing Secondary weapons, like the P-2 Peacemaker or the LAS-7 Dagger, could serve as competitors, but going all out with a brand-new Secondary gun would be ideal. In order to compete with the GP-31, a more effective close-range pistol or another explosive sidearm that deals more damage could be a solid route.
As the game inches closer to its first anniversary, it will be interesting to see what the future of Helldivers 2 holds. It’s been a year of highs and lows for the surprise hit, but its continued growth will likely keep it afloat for years to come.
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