.4B.06. Heavy Weapon

Your guide to Heavy Weapons in Mass Effect 2. Learn about models like the ML-77 Missile Launcher, M-100 Grenade Launcher, and M-451 Firestorm, plus their ammo and upgrade differences.

Alright, let's talk about the big guns in Mass Effect 2: Heavy Weapons. These aren't your everyday sidearms; they're designed for maximum destruction, and they can really turn the tide of a tough fight. Unlike your standard weapons that use thermal clips, heavy weapons chew through power cells. You'll find these power cells scattered around during missions – keep an eye out, because that's the only way to get more ammo for them. Once you've fired, you're out until you find more. The good news? They don't need reloading and can be fired continuously. These weapons pack a serious punch, often hitting multiple enemies or dealing damage through cover. Some, like the M-920 Cain and M-490 Blackstorm, are particularly good at bypassing obstacles. Now, here's a key difference: heavy weapons don't get damage upgrades like other guns. You can only upgrade their power cell capacity to get more shots. Also, powers like Adrenaline Rush or ammo powers won't boost their damage, with a couple of exceptions: the Collector Particle Beam and the M-451 Firestorm can benefit from Adrenaline Rush and Tactical Cloak. Keep in mind these two also have their damage affected by range, dealing less at a distance and more up close. Be a little careful, though. Some heavy weapons, like the M-100 Grenade Launcher, ML-77 Missile Launcher, and the M-920 Cain, can actually hurt you or your squadmates if you're too close when you fire them. Your squad might complain about friendly fire even if they aren't hit, but watch your positioning! Also, switching to and from heavy weapons takes a bit longer than other guns, and you'll move slower during those animations. Plan your engagements accordingly. Most of these heavy weapons are researched in the Normandy's tech lab after you find enough upgrades. Some you'll find during missions, and others come from DLC. In Mass Effect Legendary Edition, all DLC is included, so the Arc Projector is available from the start, and the M-490 Blackstorm can be bought from Harrot's Emporium on Omega. ### Heavy Weapon Models Here are some of the heavy weapons you'll encounter: ML-77 Missile Launcher * Manufacturer: Armax Arsenal * Base Damage: 350 * Damage Multipliers (Armor / Barriers / Shields): x1.25 / x1.25 / x1.25 * Power Cells: 15 * Acquisition: Research Project M-100 Grenade Launcher * Manufacturer: Elanus Risk Control Services * Base Damage: 500 * Damage Multipliers (Armor / Barriers / Shields): x1.25 / x1.25 / x1.25 * Power Cells: 10 * Acquisition: Prologue: Awakening M-451 Firestorm * Manufacturer: Unknown * Base Damage: 400 * Damage Multipliers (Armor / Barriers / Shields): x1.25 / x1.25 / x1.25 * Power Cells: 15 * Acquisition: Mission reward