Playing The Division 2: Tips and Tricks for Newbies

The Division 2 offers enjoyment to both inexperienced and experienced gamers, and these tips will greatly assist beginners on their journey with the game.

The Division 2 Beginner’s Guide with 23 Pro Tips

Players of The Division 2 find themselves facing the aftermath of a smallpox pandemic. Their characters work as agents under the Strategic Homeland Division, with missions designed to rebuild Washington D.C. against all odds. Unfortunately, these agents have to face threats in the form of mercenaries, armed groups, and even traitors.

As with other Tom Clancy titles, The Division 2 contains quite an intriguing story. And true to Ubisoft fashion, the game offers an action-packed third-person shooter. So, for newbies out there, just how exactly should they play the game?

Updated on March 14, 2024 by Rhenn Taguiam: With The Division 2 kicking off February of its Year 5 with Season 3: Vanguard, fans of the Tom Clancy franchise can expect more secrets unveiled as Agent Kelso goes missing while ensuring the safety of the Haven settlement. This comes with balancing changes and the arrival of new weapons such as the Mosquito (Exotic Pistol) and the Vindicator (Exotic Rifle), as well as gear such as Rugged Gauntlets (Exotic Gloves), Aegis (Gear Set), and Palisade Steelworks (Brand Set). With these new gear and locations in mind, newcomers to The Division 2 might feel overwhelmed with the kind of progress they should make as soon as they create characters. Thankfully, the game can be straightforward with the right approach, especially when players stay clear of flanks, secure Accolades for more EXP, and get same-named Gear as often as possible.

Try To Get Gear Of The Same Set

Gear Of The Same Name Get Better Bonuses

Being a tactical looter-shooter, Gear Score can dictate a player’s overall progression in the endgame of The Division 2. In fact, the right gear can spell the difference between life or death in difficult encounters. The game’s rarity-based equipment positions high-rarity Purple, Yellow, Orange, or Exotic pieces as more valuable compared to Green (Standard) or Blue (Specialized) gear. However, for newcomers, the priority isn’t to mix and match various equipment but instead optimize gear for faster progression.

Newcomers should consider trying to find gear with similar names to obtain specific benefits. Ideal starting named gear to aim for throughout progression includes:

Hunter’s Fury: The Apex Predator bonus debuffs enemies within 15 meters, increasing the damage they take. It also provides damage boosts at short range as well as innate lifesteal.
Umbra Initiative: Boosts critical chance and reload speed, along with increased crit damage during cover and additional Armor when in direct combat.

Secure Accolades For More EXP

Unlock Experience Accolades For Faster Leveling To 30

Before new players take on the Hyenas in The Division 2, they may want to secure their new character’s level to safely approach the shooter’s endgame portion. Progression in the game heavily relies on Experience, and newcomers may think killing enemies on sight will power-level them to higher challenge tiers in a few days’ worth of sessions. However, there are ways to further increase a character’s opportunity to level up faster, courtesy of Accolades.

When players begin to take Perks from the Quartermaster, it helps to secure Accolades I to V as soon as possible. These Perks reward XP Bonuses depending on certain actions, encouraging players to try different gameplay strategies. These Accolades include securing kills with headshots (Headshot Accolade), crowd-based kills (Multi-Kill Accolade), hitting weak points for a harsh execution (Weakpoints Accolade), using the environment (Tactical Kill Accolade), and not dying in an extended encounter (Survivor).

Stay Wary Of Flanking Enemies

Enemies React More Carefully To Players

While The Division 2 has its fair share of difficult enemies, newcomers to the game will already notice the sequel’s increased challenge with the improved AI. Unlike the first game where players can go for traditional stealth gameplay or guns-out strategies, the more reactive AI of enemies in the game makes for some intelligent gunplay on the opponents’ part.

For instance, players firing from a certain position shouldn’t stay in one place for too long as enemy reinforcements will try to flank them. This mechanic encourages more fluid movement on the part of players and making proper use of the game’s cover system, especially now that enemies will actively try to gain the upper hand.

Practice Teaming Up

Teaming Up Lets Players Get More Strategic In Missions

Despite Drones, Mines, and Turrets allowing players to traverse most levels alone, a lot of the fun and tactical prowess in The Division 2 is shown in its multiplayer components. While the Dark Zone is still a hazardous area for newcomers, there’s still value in The Division 2 players practicing their co-op strategies, especially as they progress through their Specializations.

A key component in this multiplayer practice is to find a collaborative group to play with, use the Matchmaking Station to get paired with other open players, or even look for agents “Requesting Backup” from ISAC. These options likely pair players with agents of similar skill levels and gear, allowing for more strategic and coordinated missions.

Go Back To The Base After Every Level

Get Rewards At The Base For The First Few Levels

The White House is the DC Base of Operations

As with other RPGs, leveling up in The Division 2 gives players various methods to further improve their stats. Agents who level up receive Skill Points and SHD Tech that they can use to unlock new abilities and obtain new Perks to personalize their Agents further. Players can only spend these points during their visits to the Quartermaster.

It’s essential for players to consider going back to the White House whenever they level up to immediately spend their points and become as optimally built as possible. While players can delay their upgrades after various levels, enemies may become more difficult to deal with if they skip enough skill-ups, making encounters unnecessarily challenging.

Get Headshot Perk To Train

Better Accuracy Means Less Time To Kill

Gameplay in The Division 2 allows players access to unique buffs that vastly improve their tactical prowess through Perks. These Perks give players a lot of customization options for their Agent, allowing them to specialize and make themselves distinct from other Agents who generally have access to the same tools.

For beginners, the ideal Perk to pick is the Headshot Accolade Perk, which provides extra XP whenever Agents successfully pull off headshot kills. Considering how headshots can make encounters with multiple enemies much more accessible, practicing these early on can become something players will thank themselves for once they reach the game’s stricter endgame levels.

Secure Followers To Get Projects Faster

Speed Up Progression With The Follower-Project Loop

With the main goal of The Division 2 being the restoration of order in Washington D.C., players are also tasked with establishing key points of “civilization” to pave the way for safe civilian settlements. The game describes these locations as Projects, which not only give players extra rewards and boost XP gain but also provide new locations to Settlements.

Obtaining Projects can be tricky, as they’re generally tied to Followers players acquire in the game. Throughout the game’s main mission, The Division 2 eventually tasks players to get Followers to access Projects. And before players can acquire more Followers, they need to upgrade the Projects they come from. This “loop” of players constantly developing areas they slowly access can give them a steady stream of both Projects and Followers, making an Agent’s growth much easier.

Skip Crafting Weapons For Now

Get Weapons From Missions First

One of the most exciting components of The Division 2 gameplay is its tactical premise in a post-apocalyptic setting. This means while players do get access to various real-life guns, they also have the option of customizing them to meet their specific needs and survive in a chaotic Washington D.C. It’s this crafting option that makes The Division 2 all the more personalized for players.

However, new players may want to skip crafting for now. Eliminating opponents and completing multiple objectives early on will provide players with a variety of weapons to use, allowing them to experience multiple gun types at once. As players progress through the game’s story, they’ll gain a better understanding of which weapons to keep, donate, or sell, optimizing their loadouts accordingly.

Avoid Stressing Over Early Builds

Get A Playstyle Before Focusing On A Build

As Division Agents specialize in different fields, players have the opportunity to personalize their gameplay to fit their preferred combat style. Players can freely switch between Specializations as long as they’ve unlocked them, allowing them to prepare build strategies based on their preferred combat roles. This avoids the need to create multiple characters and encourages players to explore various playstyles.

Cling To Old Gear For Projects

Donate Old Gear To Projects Instead Of Throwing Them Away

Players progressing through the game will likely gather a ton of loot – particularly gear that can improve their character’s stats. As with any MMO, loot lovers might find it difficult to part with even the earliest loot they uncover. Thankfully, the game incentivizes players who periodically let go of unnecessary items.

In the player’s mission to rebuild order in Washington D.C., they will be tasked with helping the Division recreate critical infrastructure around the region. The game refers to these establishments as Projects, and they need players to trade in their old gear to generate new supplies. Completing Projects not only yields rewards but also grants access to safe zones and unique gameplay elements.

Upgrade With Weapon Mods

Mods Can Improve Weapon Performance Significantly

In The Division 2, players can customize their gear to fit their combat preferences. They can enhance their weapons’ performance through the use of mods, which can be slotted into magazines, muzzles, optics, and underbarrels.

For beginners, ideal mods to prioritize are those that improve weapon handling and firing rate. Examples include the Nimble Link Belt (Magazine, providing a 5% fire rate buff) or the Omega 5.56 Rifle Suppressor (Muzzle, granting a 20% stability buff). Players should find mods that align with their intended playstyle and experiment with different builds as they level up.

Recalibration Has Its Perks

Consider Recalibration For Specific Builds

Weapons play a crucial role in The Division 2, and players have the option to recalibrate them for specific builds. Once players unlock the Recalibration Station in the White House, they can transfer one stat or Talent from one weapon to another weapon of the same type. This process can only occur once and destroys the source of the stat or Talent.

Players don’t have to give up weapons they love just because a particular stat needs improvement. Recalibration allows players to carry their favorite stat or Talent onto newer weapons, further enhancing customization options and build diversity.

Sound Matters In Combat

Take Note Of Where Footsteps, Shots Are Coming From

The Division 2’s gameplay places a strong emphasis on sound cues. Enemies react to noise, focusing fire and seeking the player’s location based on sound. This adds another layer of strategy to combat, requiring players to make use of their environment to lure enemies into unexpected positions using sound cues. Players should also take note of where enemy shots and footsteps are coming from, allowing for stealthy approaches and well-planned attacks.

Take Advantage Of Skills

Use Skills To Personalize Gameplay Strategies

Players in The Division 2 have access to various skills that aid them and their allies in the game. There are eight skills in total, each with its subcategories, advantages, and disadvantages. Players should choose skills appropriate for their role to maximize their contribution to their squad.

For solo players, using the Drone (Striker) or Turret (Assault) can provide an extra squad member during missions. Turrets can be placed on covers, providing additional protection while reloading or adjusting loadouts. Striker Drones fly around the battlefield, engaging enemies while players focus on objectives.

Get Your Shots Right

Aim At Weak Points To Avoid Wasting Ammo

In The Division 2, enemies and players have armor plates that make them harder to hit. However, breaking enemy armor by shooting weak points should be a priority. Weak points are usually marked in red and breaking them makes enemies more vulnerable and easier to kill. Prioritizing weak points results in more efficient use of ammunition and shorter time-to-kill for enemies.

Use Covers Often And Carefully

Make Strategic Use Of The Map Through Covers

The Division 2 features a cover system that makes shootouts more engaging. Staying out in the open is a recipe for immediate death. Thankfully, there’s plenty of cover throughout Washington D.C., allowing players to defend themselves from enemy fire.

However, players should be cautious about utilizing cover. Enemies also use cover and may try to flank or pin players down. Proper cover usage and strategic movement are crucial for survival, especially in tight spots or objects that provide cover for enemies. Make sure to plan shots and repair equipment while staying alert for enemy movements.

Fix Armor Except Before Completing The Mission

Save Armor Plates By Delaying Repairs Until The End Of The Mission

Both players and enemies have armor that takes damage during combat encounters. Armor plates can be used to repair armor during firefights, especially when taking cover. However, repairing armor in battle isn’t always necessary.

In lengthy story battles, players should repair their armor as soon as possible, especially if many enemies are still present. However, in the endgame, it’s often sufficient to make do with broken armor and finish the mission without wasting armor plates. Frequent use of this tactic saves valuable resources as the game refills armor and health after completing missions.

Punch When They Get Too Close

Go For Melee To Avoid Wasting Ammo, Secure Escape Routes

In The Division 2, players can use melee attacks when enemies get too close. This move can be beneficial when dealing with multiple mobs or when a quick escape is needed. Melee combat also plays a role in completing challenges that encourage using melee against enemies. Using melee effectively can help distract opponents when they’re up close and allow squads to devise suitable tactics.

Consider Getting The Detection Perk

Detection Can Make Gathering Loot More Efficient

Players who want better loot in The Division 2 should consider getting the Detection perk. While it may appear insignificant compared to other perks that provide more armor plates and supply space, Detection is valuable. This perk allows players to see loot containers around the world after supplying friendly control points.

Having the Detection perk makes it easier to find crafting materials, as well as food and water at supply nodes. This significantly improves the efficiency of loot gathering, making the search for valuable items more convenient.

Activate Safehouses, Secure Control Points

Get More Secure During Travels Through Safehouses

To fully explore the vast overworld in The Division 2, players should focus on activating safehouses and securing control points. Safehouses serve as matchmaking and spawn points, providing quests that lead to boss fights with rewarding EXP. Control points, on the other hand, are contested areas in new regions that spawn enemy mobs.

Clearing control points makes them safe zones for fast travel and spawning, while friendly NPCs patrol the area for added security. Activating safehouses and securing control points maximizes an Agent’s ability to navigate and explore the open world.

Additional Questions and Answers

Q: How can I improve my aim in The Division 2?

A: One way to improve your aim is by practicing headshots. In addition, consider using a weapon with high accuracy and stability, as this will make it easier to land shots consistently. You can also experiment with different weapon mods to enhance your aiming capabilities.

Q: What are the best skills to use in The Division 2?

A: The best skills to use depend on your playstyle and desired role. For solo players, the Drone (Striker) and Turret (Assault) skills can provide valuable support. In a group, skills such as the Healing Chem Launcher and Reviver Hive can be essential for keeping your team alive. Experiment with different skills to find what works best for you.

Q: How can I efficiently gather crafting materials in The Division 2?

A: One efficient way to gather crafting materials is by completing control points and looting the supply rooms. Additionally, completing missions and activities in the open world can also reward you with crafting materials. You can also consider using the Detection perk, as mentioned earlier, to help you locate loot containers.

Q: What should I prioritize upgrading in The Division 2?

A: It is recommended to prioritize upgrading your base of operations in the White House. This will unlock new abilities, perks, and vendors that can provide valuable resources and gear. Additionally, investing in projects and capturing control points will yield rewards that help with progression.

Q: How can I efficiently clear missions in The Division 2?

A: Efficiently clearing missions involves using cover effectively, coordinating with your team (if playing multiplayer), and utilizing skills and abilities strategically. Make sure to communicate and plan your approach, focusing on taking down enemies one at a time and using crowd control abilities when necessary.

By following these tips and tricks, newcomers to The Division 2 can improve their gameplay experience and progress through the game with more success. Remember to stay strategic, adapt to enemy tactics, and make use of the game’s mechanics to your advantage. Good luck, Agents!

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