Helldivers 2 is packed with intense co-op action, tactical gunfights, and waves of hostile enemies. But beyond the chaos, the game also hides plenty of clever nods in its item names—some of which even long-time players may have overlooked. If you’ve ever looked at a weapon or gear label and thought, “Wait a second…”, you’re not alone. These subtle references pay tribute to classic sci-fi, military history, and even a few pop culture icons.
If you’re looking to accelerate your progress and unlock gear faster, many players choose to buy Helldivers 2 medals as a practical way to stay competitive. Medals are essential for unlocking Warbond items, including powerful weapons, armor sets, and boosters that can significantly enhance your performance on the battlefield. Whether you’re trying to complete a specific build or just want to experience more of what the game has to offer without an excessive grind, purchasing medals can be a convenient solution for committed players.
Here are 10 hidden references in Helldivers 2 item names that you probably missed.
1. AR-23 Liberator
This standard assault rifle shares its name with a real-life WWII aircraft, the B-24 Liberator. Known for long-range bombing missions, the name evokes heavy-duty service in the name of freedom—very on-brand for Super Earth.
2. MG-43 Machine Gun
The MG-43 seems like a fictional take on the German MG-42 from WWII, also known as “Hitler’s Buzzsaw” for its blistering rate of fire. Helldivers 2 tones it down just enough to make it usable—barely.
3. Quasar Cannon
“Quasar” is a term used in astronomy to describe ultra-bright, energetic regions powered by black holes. Naming a heavy weapon after a cosmic force like this is a clear nod to sci-fi traditions, giving the gun an interstellar gravitas.
4. Punisher Shotgun
This name could be a wink at Marvel’s vigilante anti-hero, The Punisher. Brutal, no-nonsense, and devastating at close range—sound familiar?
5. B-1 Supply Pack
The designation “B-1” might reference the B-1 Lancer, a supersonic bomber in the U.S. Air Force. Like its aerial namesake, the supply pack ensures you deliver payloads precisely when and where they’re needed.
6. Autocannon Emplacement
While generic-sounding at first, this item draws inspiration from classic RTS games like StarCraft and Command & Conquer, where autocannons were core base-defense tools. It’s a subtle nod to old-school defense strategy.
7. Eagle Cluster Bomb
The “Eagle” series in general could reference the American bald eagle, a long-time symbol of U.S. military power and freedom. It also brings to mind air support abilities from games like Call of Duty—raining justice from above.
8. Scorcher Incendiary Mines
The name “Scorcher” might remind players of Fallout‘s Scorched enemies or even Borderlands weapon naming conventions. It implies chaos, fire, and total disruption—very fitting for its actual in-game effect.
9. Anti-Material Rifle
This isn’t just a cool-sounding term. Anti-materiel rifles are real-world weapons designed to disable equipment instead of personnel. It’s a subtle reminder that Helldivers are strategic operatives, not just gunslingers.
10. Patriot Exosuit
Naming an armored walker the “Patriot” is no accident. It’s likely a multi-layered nod to patriotic mechs in media like Metal Gear or even Titanfall. It perfectly aligns with the game’s tongue-in-cheek tone of exaggerated nationalism.
If you’re diving deeper into the game, chasing rare gear, or looking to upgrade your loadout quickly, many players opt to buy Helldivers 2 medals or buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits to fast-track their arsenal. Resources like U4GM have become known in the community for helping players keep pace without endless grinding.
The next time you’re browsing your equipment list, take a moment to consider the names—many carry more weight than you’d expect. Whether they’re callbacks to history, science fiction, or gaming culture, they help make Helldivers 2 a richer and more enjoyable experience.
