Helldivers 2: How to get samples & what they do

Tyler Constable
An image of Helldivers 2 gameplay.

Samples in Helldivers 2 are a key resource for players to gather. Here are the methods for collecting samples and their various applications within the game.

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 upgrading specific gear in the game.

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.

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

Gathering samples in Helldivers 2

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.

Now that you know how to get samples in Helldivers 2, you can take a look at how to change weapon fire rate in Helldivers 2 or check out how to get all the medals fast.