Dead Island 2: Best Melee Weapons

The best melee weapons in Dead Island 2 offer amazing advantages for close-quarters combat. While there are different types, only a select few are truly worth your while. And since you’ll be up close and personal more times than not, it’s important to make the right choice. We pick the best melee weapons in DI2 below.

For this list, we look at some unique legendary weapons, as well as certain weapon types that outshine the rest. Bear in mind that this is based on our experience while playing, so you might have your own favorites while you’re progressing through the game.

The Best Melee Weapons and Types Dead Island 2

Emma’s Wrath (or Any Sledgehammer)

Screenshot by GameSkinny

Emma’s Wrath is a legendary sledgehammer. It has a mod that increases physical damage and force, along with a chance of applying the Traumatized effect. Likewise, its Overkill unique perk causes it to prime on stomps and counters, leading to a deadly shotgun blast.

Likewise, the sledgehammer melee weapon variants are probably the best weapons in Dead Island 2. This is primarily due to the armament’s brutal wide arcs that, while slow, are able to hit multiple opponents. When upgraded or brought up to your player level, you’ll even see Apex zombies kneel in one powerful charged blow. Here’s how to Get Emma’s Wrath in DI2. 

Fire Axes and Katanas

Screenshot by GameSkinny

We feel that fire axes and katanas are just one rung below sledgehammers in Dead Island 2. Both weapon types have decent attack speed, and the slashing motions can hit several foes. The charge attacks, meanwhile, can bash skulls or decapitate outright. One notable mention is the Wildstyle fire axe, which comes from the Art of War sidequest.

Party Starter

Screenshot by GameSkinny

Another decent option is the Party Starter, a legendary set of brass knuckles. We don’t really recommend brass knuckles in general due to their single-target focus and minimal range.

Still, the Party Starter has fire-based mods and perks, including boosts to your resilience and AoE ignite triggers. Your strikes against the same target could end up causing nearby foes to burn as well. Here’s how to get Party Starter in Dead Island 2. 

In any case, these are what we consider the best melee weapons in Dead Island 2. To learn about the other powerful endgame armaments, you can check our best ranged weapons guide. Likewise, for more about DI2, you can visit our main guides hub.

Featured image via Deep Silver.