1. Longer Missions Yield Better Medal Payouts
One of the most reliable patterns I’ve noticed is that longer missions consistently offer higher medal rewards. Missions lasting 25 minutes or more often net you double or even triple the medal count of shorter runs. This seems to be the game's way of rewarding persistence and risk. However, not all long missions are created equal — you need to prioritize those with secondary objectives and high enemy activity for the best returns.
2. Choose High-Level Difficulties for Multiplier Effects
If you’re comfortable with the mechanics and have a reliable squad, aim for harder missions. Not only do these increase your base medal reward, but they often feature extended objectives that lengthen the mission duration. I once completed a 40-minute level 7 difficulty mission and walked away with over 30 medals — far more than I would’ve earned on an easier, quicker run.
These missions are also a great opportunity to rack up Helldivers 2 Super Credits, especially if you can clear optional objectives. Just be sure to gear up properly before diving in.
3. Play With a Coordinated Team
Mission success — and medal quantity — is directly tied to how efficiently your team works. I’ve had countless runs where uncoordinated squads ended up failing long missions, wasting both time and potential medal rewards. Running with friends or joining a coordinated group improves survival, speeds up objective completion, and increases your odds of completing bonus tasks that boost rewards.
When you're looking to buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits, consider that your in-game performance can affect your spending decisions. Playing with skilled teammates often results in fewer failures and better in-game earnings, which can help stretch your purchases further.
4. Optimize Your Loadout for Endurance
Long missions require preparation. Bring gear suited for sustainability — ammo resupplies, medical kits, and defensive stratagems are critical. I learned this the hard way during a 30-minute mission when my entire squad ran out of ammo with one wave left. Now, I never start an extended mission without fully customizing my loadout for the long haul.
Having a durable setup allows you to finish longer missions, meaning you walk away with higher medal counts and, often, some bonus Helldivers 2 Super Credits tucked in as well.
Maximizing medal rewards in Helldivers 2 isn’t just about being skilled — it’s about being strategic. Longer missions, when handled properly, offer significantly better returns. Whether you're grinding organically or planning to buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits to speed things up, using mission duration to your advantage can make a big difference.
Full Breakdown: 5 Stamina Management Tips for Speed Builds in Helldivers 2