If you’ve been diving into the intense, cooperative action of Helldivers 2, you’ve likely encountered Medals as part of the gameplay. These in-game rewards are more than just shiny icons—they’re a valuable part of your progression, unlocking new abilities, perks, and customization options that can help you and your squad survive the harshest battles. But how exactly do you earn them, and what’s the best way to make use of them? Let’s break it down in this guide, where I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Helldivers 2 Medals.

What Are Helldivers 2 Medals?

At their core, Medals are an in-game currency that you earn by completing specific challenges, missions, and milestones within the game. These rewards come in various forms and represent your achievements on the battlefield. Whether it’s for your personal skill, teamwork with your squad, or your overall contribution to the war effort, Medals reflect your dedication and success.

Unlike regular loot or weapons, Helldivers 2 Medals aren’t just used for immediate benefits. They serve as long-term rewards that unlock significant upgrades for your character, enhancing your ability to take on tougher missions and enemies. You’ll want to focus on accumulating as many Medals as possible to level up your gear and increase your overall combat efficiency.

How to Earn Medals

Earning Helldivers 2 Medals isn’t as simple as just blasting through enemies; you’ll need to meet specific objectives or complete special challenges. Here are some of the primary ways to rack them up:

1. Complete Missions and Objectives: The most straightforward way to earn Medals is by progressing through the game’s various missions. Each mission typically comes with its own set of objectives that reward Medals upon completion. Whether it’s securing a location or defeating a certain number of enemies, make sure to stay focused on the mission’s goals to maximize your Medal haul.

2. Special Challenges and Achievements: Occasionally, the game will feature special challenges or achievements that you can unlock by performing specific actions in battle. These could range from defeating elite enemies to completing missions under certain conditions (like time limits or without dying). Completing these challenges will net you bonus Medals that can be used to upgrade your character.

3. Cooperative Play: Helldivers 2 is all about teamwork, and you can earn Medals for cooperating with your fellow players. The better you perform as part of a team, the more Medals you’ll receive. This is why it’s crucial to communicate with your squad and coordinate your efforts to achieve the best results in every mission.

4. Event-Based Rewards: Keep an eye on in-game events and seasonal activities. These often come with their own set of rewards, including Medals. Participating in these events can provide a quicker way to gather Medals and boost your progress.

How to Use Medals

Once you’ve accumulated a good stash of Helldivers 2 Medals, you can spend them to unlock a variety of upgrades and enhancements for your character. Here are a few things you can use your hard-earned Medals for:

1. Unlocking New Gear: Medals can be used to unlock new weapons, armor, and other equipment that will help you perform better in missions. Whether it’s a new suit of armor with extra durability or a powerful weapon to deal more damage, using Medals for gear upgrades is one of the most important ways to improve your performance.

2. Upgrading Perks and Abilities: As you progress, you’ll unlock various perks and abilities that can drastically change how you approach combat. Whether it's enhanced mobility, better weapon handling, or special combat maneuvers, Medals can be used to upgrade these abilities. Choosing the right perks to match your playstyle is key to surviving tougher battles.

3. Customizations and Cosmetics: If you’re looking to stand out on the battlefield, you can also use Medals for cosmetic upgrades. Custom skins for your armor, unique helmets, or other visual upgrades are available for those who want to personalize their appearance. These don’t provide any combat advantage but can help you express yourself while playing.

Tips for Maximizing Your Medal Rewards

1. Focus on Mission Objectives: Completing mission objectives is the easiest way to rack up Medals. Make sure you’re following the mission objectives to get the most Medals, and don’t get sidetracked by distractions.

2. Team Up for Special Challenges: Some of the best rewards come from team-based challenges. Make sure you’re coordinating with your team and completing as many special objectives as possible.

3. Stay Active in Events: Participate in seasonal events and in-game challenges whenever possible. These often provide bonus Medals and can be a great way to boost your progress quickly.

4. Use Medals Wisely: Don't waste Medals on small, insignificant upgrades. Focus on unlocking and upgrading gear or abilities that will have the biggest impact on your gameplay.

FAQs about Helldivers 2 Medals

1. How do I get Medals in Helldivers 2?
You earn Medals by completing mission objectives, special challenges, cooperative play, and event-based rewards. Completing missions with specific goals or challenges will net you the most Medals.

2. Can I trade Medals with other players?
No, Medals are non-transferable between players. They are a personal reward for your efforts and cannot be shared.

3. Are Medals required to unlock the best gear?
Yes, Medals are a key component in unlocking some of the best gear and upgrades in the game. They are used to unlock new weapons, armor, and perks that enhance your combat abilities.

4. Are Medals rare?
Medals are not inherently rare, but their distribution depends on your performance in missions and challenges. Special Medals, awarded for completing unique objectives, can be rarer.

5. Do Medals expire?
No, Medals do not expire. You can save them up and spend them whenever you feel ready to upgrade your character.

6. Can I earn Medals from single-player missions?
Yes, you can earn Medals in single-player missions. However, cooperative missions with your team will often yield more rewards.

7. What are the best ways to maximize my Medal rewards?
Focus on completing mission objectives, take part in special challenges, and participate in in-game events for bonus Medals. Working well with your team can also maximize your rewards.

By understanding the significance of Helldivers 2 Medals and how to effectively earn and use them, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the game’s toughest missions. Keep earning those Medals, and you’ll soon see how they enhance your character and make you a force to be reckoned with!