When it comes to close-quarters combat in Helldivers 2, few weapons deliver raw stopping power like the M90A Shotgun. This beast is a fan favorite among players who love getting up close and personal with Terminids and Automatons alike. In this
Helldivers 2 M90A Shotgun Guide – Stats, Strengths, and Weaknesses, we’ll break down what makes this weapon shine, where it falls short, and how to make the most of it on the battlefield.
The M90A Shotgun is a primary weapon designed for high burst damage in close-range situations. It’s a semi-automatic shotgun that fires a wide pellet spread, capable of tearing through light and medium targets in a single trigger pull. While it’s not as flashy as some of the other exotic weaponry in Helldivers 2, its reliability and damage potential make it a solid choice for frontline combat.
This shotgun truly excels in missions where enemies swarm in tight corridors or emerge from narrow choke points. Its consistent damage output and ease of use make it accessible for both newcomers and experienced Helldivers looking for a dependable close-range tool.
Weapon StatsHere’s a general breakdown of the M90A Shotgun’s performance characteristics:
Fire Mode: Semi-Automatic
Damage: High (effective against light and medium armor)
Range: Short
Magazine Size: 8 shells
Reload Time: Moderate
Recoil: Manageable
Accuracy: Low at range, high in close quarters
These stats underline the M90A’s purpose — it’s not meant for distance engagements. Instead, it’s about mobility, reaction time, and the ability to obliterate enemies within a few meters.
StrengthsDevastating Close-Range Damage:
The M90A excels in tight encounters. A single shot can vaporize small bugs or stagger armored enemies, buying precious seconds to reposition.
Ease of Use:
Unlike some advanced shotguns, the M90A’s recoil is predictable, and its firing rhythm is easy to control. It’s a plug-and-play weapon that feels natural in fast-paced skirmishes.
Versatile Utility:
Effective for crowd control, especially when paired with armor-piercing stratagems or support weapons that compensate for its short reach.
Reliable in Panic Situations:
When surrounded, the M90A can clear a path faster than most weapons, allowing you to break free from swarms or defend an objective.
WeaknessesLimited Range:
The most obvious drawback. Outside of close range, the M90A struggles. Its spread makes hitting distant targets inefficient, forcing you to rely on secondary weapons or stratagems for long-distance engagements.
Reload Vulnerability:
With an 8-shell magazine and moderate reload time, poor timing can leave you exposed mid-fight. Managing reloads between waves is essential.
Ammo Consumption:
The shotgun eats through ammo quickly, especially during prolonged defense missions. Carrying an ammo resupply stratagem is highly recommended.
Ineffective Against Heavy Armor:
While deadly against smaller enemies, the M90A lacks penetration for heavily armored units. Team coordination or a backup weapon is necessary for those tougher targets.
Best Use Cases and TipsUrban and Tight Environments: Use the M90A in bunkers, tunnels, and narrow canyons where enemies can’t easily flank you.
Pair with Grenades or Support Weapons: Cover your weaknesses by carrying explosives or an anti-armor weapon.
Play Aggressively but Smart: The M90A encourages close-range combat, but positioning and timing are key. Don’t overextend into open spaces.
Coordinate Reloads: Always reload when there’s a lull in combat — never when enemies are rushing your position.
The Helldivers 2 M90A Shotgun Guide – Stats, Strengths, and Weaknesses highlights one simple truth: this weapon is a classic example of controlled chaos. It’s brutal, efficient, and immensely satisfying to use — provided you understand its limitations.
If you enjoy a high-risk, high-reward playstyle that rewards aggression and quick decision-making, the M90A Shotgun deserves a spot in your loadout. Just remember — this isn’t a weapon for cautious players. It’s for those who dive headfirst into the swarm and come out victorious.