Helldivers 2: How to get samples & what they do

Helldivers 2 has landed, introducing Samples as a key resource for players to gather. Discover the methods for collecting samples in this sequel and their various applications within the game.

With a fresh third-person perspective, the newest Helldivers installment enhances the franchise’s action, offering both solo and cooperative play options for enthusiasts and first-time players alike.

As you take on Galactic War missions in Helldivers 2, it’s important to be on the lookout for samples as they’re essential resources when it comes to upgrading specific gear in the game. So, here’s everything you need to know about samples, including what they do and where to get them.

How to get samples in Helldivers 2

Samples can be found during missions in Helldivers 2. They currently come in three types – Common (Green), Rare (Orange), and Rarer (Pink), each with a specific role in unlocking Stratagem upgrades via the Ship Module section.

Gathering green samples is most efficient in Eradicate missions, while orange samples often appear near cleared bug nests. Pink samples, the rarest, spawn around destroyed Spore Spewers, with a cap of three per mission. You can find a rundown of every sample type and their locations below:

• Common Samples: Found in missions labeled as Trivial, Easy, and Medium. These samples are visible as small, brightly colored containers scattered across various locations such as minor points of interest, bunkers, and near yellow slime or crashed dropship pods.
• Rare Samples: Venturing into planets with difficulty levels four and above (Challenging to Helldive) unveils rare samples. These are primarily pink-colored rocks within craters or yellow flowers located away from main structures. Their rarity encourages exploration beyond Eradication missions due to more extensive map sizes.
• Super Uranium Samples: For the most daring, difficulty levels seven and above (Suicide Mission to Helldive) hide Super Uranium Samples. These elusive silver orbs demand keen observation, often nestled in small craters near minor interest points.

It’s also important to note that if you die while holding samples you’ll lose them all, so if you’re playing with friends make sure to tell them where your body is and they’ll be able to pick them up for you before the mission ends.

What are samples for in Helldivers 2?

Samples are used to purchase upgrades for ship modules in the game, such as an expanded weapons bay for the ship’s hanger or adding more guns to your orbital canons.

To utilize the samples you’ve gathered, approach the ship’s computer, located directly across from the cryo chamber. Engage with it to access the Ship Management interface, and then navigate to the Ship Module section. Here, you’ll discover a range of upgrades available for purchase using different types of samples.

You’ll have to invest quite a lot of samples per upgrade so it’s worth searching for the resource whenever you can during missions so you’ve got plenty on hand when you want to upgrade.

For more Helldivers 2 content, check out our guides below:

Are there classes in Helldivers 2? | How to fix Helldivers 2 quickplay error | How to change your ship name in Helldivers 2 | Does Helldivers 2 have vehicles & mechs? | How to fix Helldivers 2 failed to join error | Is Helldivers 2 on Steam Deck? | Can you play Helldivers 2 offline? | Helldivers 2: Trophies and Achievements | Is Helldivers 2 on Xbox Game Pass?