TX-41 Sterilizer Overview
Welcome back, fellow patriots to the twenty first edition of Democratically Accurate Weapons Overview.
I am your SEAF Scientific Division's Weapon R&D host, u/Doctor_Walrus_1052.
Generally speaking, I find "gas" jokes to be below the social standards. However, with a piece of arsenal we are about to go through, it'd be difficult not to make some, considering it has a potential for some hilariously good outcomes.
Without further ado, lets dive right in!
(Please note: These guides provide basic, fundamental understandings of the tech alone, without supplemental use in tandem with other arsenal available to Helldivers. They are not providing the information on the intricacies of use for more specific strategical approaches. The content is purely comedic)
TX-41 Sterilizer: Because Smell Indeed CAN Kill!
In the ever-expanding arsenal of Helldivers 2, where "excessive force" is the baseline, the TX-41 Sterilizer emerges as the weapon of choice for those who believe that if you can't burn it, you might as well gas it. This high-pressure chemical sprayer is perfect for turning enemy hordes into confused, stumbling messes—much like a disorganized squad of Helldiving lone wolves who think they can take on an entire operation solo, but instead end up depleting entire reinforcement budget. I guess that counts as being #1 at something, too?
What Is the TX-41 Sterilizer?
The TX-41 Sterilizer is a support weapon that functions similarly to the FLAM-40 Flamethrower but with a twist—it spews caustic gas instead of fire. This gas doesn't just damage enemies; it also slows them down and causes confusion, making them attack anything nearby, including their allies. It's like handing out free samples of chaos at the intergalactic farmers' market.
Key Features of the TX-41 Sterilizer
Caustic Cloud: Sprays a high-pressure stream of chemical gas that deals damage over time (25 DPS) and lingers briefly in the air. Unlike flames, it doesn't stick to surfaces, so no accidental campfires here.
Debuff Delight: Enemies caught in the gas are slowed by 25% and become confused, attacking anything nearby—including their fellow comrades. It's the ultimate "let's you and him fight" tactic.
Instant Ignition: Unlike the Flamethrower, the Sterilizer doesn't have a firing delay due to the lack of a pilot light. Because waiting to roast bugs is so last season.
How to Deploy the TX-41 Sterilizer: Spray, Pray, and Get Out of the Way™
Unlock the Goodies: Acquire the Sterilizer from the Chemical Agents Premium Warbond for a modest fee of 85 Medals. Because nothing says "I love democracy" like spending medals on chemical weapons.
Call It In: Input the stratagem code to have your shiny new Sterilizer delivered from orbit. Super Amazon Prime has nothing on Super Earth's delivery system.
Spray Responsibly: Aim at the enemy horde and let the caustic goodness flow. Remember, a little spritz goes a long way in causing mayhem.
Advice: Avoid diving directly backward while spraying; your legs might get a taste of the caustic cocktail, leading to self-inflicted ouchies. Consider equipping armors with the Advanced Filtration passive to reduce this friendly fire hazard.
Strategic Use of the TX-41 Sterilizer
The Sterilizer shines as a crowd-control tool, ideal for managing swarms of enemies by slowing them down and sowing confusion. Its low DPS means it's best used in short bursts to apply the debuff, then switch to a more lethal weapon to finish off the incapacitated foes. Think of it as the setup man in your orchestra of destruction.
Pros & Cons of the TX-41 Sterilizer
Pros:
Crowd Control King: Slows and confuses enemies, turning organized assaults into chaotic brawls.
Immediate Activation: No firing delay means instant response to threats.
Friendly Fire Mitigation: Unlike fire-based weapons, the gas doesn't linger on surfaces, reducing accidental team barbecues.
Cons:
Limited Damage Output: Low DPS means it's not suited for direct elimination of enemies.
Close-Quarters Requirement: Effective range is short, requiring you to get up close and personal with the alien nasties.
Self-Hazard Potential: Improper use can lead to self-inflicted damage.
Final Verdict: The TX-41 Sterilizer Experience
The TX-41 Sterilizer is the perfect tool for Helldivers who enjoy adding a dash of strategy to their carnage. It's not about outright destruction but setting the stage for it by turning enemy ranks into disoriented, slow-moving targets. So, the next time you're facing a relentless swarm and want to mix things up, remember:
When in doubt, gas 'em out. Just be sure to stand upwind.