Shadow



Believed to be an evolution of the Stalker, these Shadows have greater regenerative capabilities but the same weak armor as their predecessor. It also retains the same camouflage ability, but has evolved a way of releasing the spores capable of luring other Bugs to its position.

Tactics

 * Found on planets of difficulty 13-15, Shadows patrol the battlefield individually, following semi-random patterns while searching for Helldivers. Their patrols are more densely clustered around mission objectives and they are also attracted to Stratagem Beacons.


 * After spotting Helldiver troops, Shadows will raise an alarm to call for help from more powerful Bug units before closing to melee range to hamstring the player with their slowing poison attacks. The alarm can be prevented by dealing sufficient damage to the Shadow and forcing it to retreat.


 * The Shadow's poisonous attacks do little direct damage but instead severely hinder player movement for several seconds, giving other bugs an opportunity to attack the stricken Helldiver. A few melee attacks or grazes from weapon fire will normally cause a Shadow to retreat away from Helldivers and towards the edge of the screen where they can be dispatched with ease and less risk of friendly fire.


 * Unlike its leaping Stalker cousins, the Shadow has significantly more health and regenerates faster.
 * Hurt Shadows retreat to a safe distance where it can regenerate its health before sneaking back into visual range and raising the alarm again.


 * Shadows can often be difficult to locate due to their excellent camouflage, however, they emit a characteristic hissing sound when close which should notify players of their presence.