The Trooper, also known as the Raider, is a light infantry Automaton equipped with a laser assault rifle, making it a common but persistent threat on the battlefield.
Spawning
Troopers and Raiders spawn naturally, emerging from Dropships or Automaton Fabricators on all difficulty levels.
At higher difficulties, they are gradually replaced by more dangerous light infantry, such as the Rocket Raider and MG Raider.
If a planet is invaded by the Jet Brigade, Troopers will begin being replaced by their Jet Brigade variant at Medium difficulty.
Behavior
Troopers and Raiders engage Helldivers from a distance, firing their laser assault rifle in five-round bursts when a target is in sight. They require four seconds to cool down before firing again.
They maintain distance from Helldivers, backing away if approached, but will punch in melee combat if a Helldiver gets too close.
If a Helldiver takes cover, they will toss a grenade to force them out.
When alerted to a Helldiver’s presence, Troopers can fire a flare to call in Dropships for reinforcements.
The Jet Brigade variant possesses a jump pack, allowing it to rapidly close the distance between itself and Helldivers.
Tactics
- Troopers and Raiders appear to be identical in function, though pinging them may label them as Raiders instead of Troopers.
- All light infantry Automatons can be suppressed by sustained gunfire, briefly reducing their accuracy.
- All light infantry Automatons have a built-in flare launcher in their left arm, allowing them to call in Dropships.
- Killing them before they finish launching a flare will prevent reinforcements from arriving.
- Grenades and headshots will reliably one-shot all light infantry Automatons.