What makes the Exploding Crossbow so special?
If you have played Helldivers 2 for a while, you already know the game is packed with chaotic moments and fast decisions. The Exploding Crossbow fits right into that vibe. It brings a mix of precision and sheer destructive power that feels great when you pull off a perfect shot. Unlike regular explosive weapons, it lets you pick targets more carefully while still doing big area damage. It is especially useful in modes where enemies group up or charge at you in waves.
How do you unlock and craft the Exploding Crossbow?
You might wonder how to get your hands on this powerful tool. The crossbow usually becomes available once you progress far enough through your Warbond tiers. After that, crafting it is pretty straightforward. You mainly need standard crafting materials gathered from missions, enemy drops, and event rewards. The nice thing is that most players unlock it naturally while playing, so you do not need to chase rare or complicated items.
Some players like to speed up their unlock progress by trying different ways to
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When should you use the Exploding Crossbow?
This weapon shines when you need controlled explosive power. For example, shooting an arrow into a big group of bugs right before they close in can clear an entire path for your team. It is also good for destroying medium enemies without wasting heavy ordnance. The blast radius is large enough to matter but not so huge that you constantly blow up teammates, though friendly fire can still happen if someone rushes in at the wrong moment.
From my own games, I found it especially helpful during defensive objectives. When enemies run directly toward the objective point, a few well-timed shots can completely change the direction of the fight. The explosions not only hit hard but also stagger enemies, giving your team space to reposition.
Is the Exploding Crossbow difficult to aim?
Surprisingly, it is not. You might expect a weapon like this to feel clunky, but the arrow flight path is easier to handle than you might think. It does take a bit of practice to judge distances, but after a few missions, it becomes second nature. My tip is to aim slightly higher on moving targets since the arrows do not travel instantly. Once you get used to the timing, landing shots becomes really satisfying.
Does it work against armored targets?
This depends on which faction you are fighting. Against lightly armored enemies like bugs, it works extremely well, both for clearing groups and finishing off tougher units. Against armored bots, it can still be useful, but you might need to aim for weak spots or rely on follow-up damage from teammates. Think of it as a flexible option rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
What loadouts pair well with the Exploding Crossbow?
Many players like to run it alongside a fast sidearm or a reliable assault rifle. Since the crossbow is best used for bursts of explosive damage, it helps to have a backup weapon that you can use when enemies get too close. A mobility boost or a defensive stratagem can also make a difference, especially if you plan to stay slightly behind the front line and pick targets.
If you are someone who experiments with gear setups often, you probably know how useful it is to test new combinations whenever you unlock new tools. Some players try to
buy helldivers 2 items online to speed up experimentation, but you can also just gather what you need by completing missions and seasonal activities. Either way, the crossbow fits nicely into almost any mid-range build.
Is the Exploding Crossbow worth using in higher difficulty missions?
Yes, especially if you enjoy tactical gameplay rather than pure spray-and-pray chaos. Higher difficulties send bigger groups and stronger enemies, which makes the explosive power of the crossbow extremely valuable. You just need to stay aware of your position so you do not accidentally damage teammates. In harder missions, communication helps a lot. Let your team know when you are firing into a group so they do not jump in at the last second.
Are there any drawbacks?
The main drawback is the reload time. It feels slightly slower than some other weapons, so you need to plan your shots instead of panicking and spamming the trigger. Also, since the projectile travels with an arc, you cannot rely on it in fast point-blank situations. But once you understand this rhythm, it becomes part of the fun. The weapon rewards patience and timing.
Final thoughts: Should you invest time in mastering the Exploding Crossbow?
Definitely. It strikes a great balance between fun, power, and utility. It is not just another explosive weapon; it feels unique in how it handles. If you like weapons that give you both control and big impact, this one is worth your time. After a few missions of practice, you will find yourself landing hits you did not think were possible.
Mastering the Exploding Crossbow also opens up more creative ways to support your team. Whether you enjoy clearing waves, protecting objectives, or taking down tougher enemies with well-placed shots, this weapon fits into many playstyles. And once you get comfortable with how it works, you will probably find it hard to put down.
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