What is the best summoner armor for Hardmode in Terraria?

In Terraria, the summoner class is a unique and powerful playstyle that focuses on using minions to deal damage while the player focuses on dodging and supporting their summons. During Hardmode, summoners have access to some of the best armor sets in the game, which significantly boost their minion damage, summon capacity, and overall survivability. The best summoner armor for Hardmode depends on your progression, but the top choices are Spider Armor, Forbidden Armor, and the endgame Stardust Armor.

Spider Armor is the first major summoner armor set available in Hardmode. To craft it, you need 36 Spider Fangs, which are dropped by Black Recluses in Spider Caves. This armor provides a total of 26 defense, increases minion damage by 28%, and grants an additional minion slot. It is an excellent choice for early Hardmode, as it significantly boosts your summoning capabilities. To obtain Spider Fangs, you will need to explore Spider Caves, which are found in the Underground or Cavern layers. Be cautious, as Black Recluses deal high damage and can inflict the Venom debuff. Equip accessories like the Obsidian Shield to prevent knockback and use weapons like the Spider Staff to summon minions that can help you farm fangs more efficiently.

Forbidden Armor is another strong option, especially for hybrid summoners who also use magic weapons. This armor set is crafted using 24 Forbidden Fragments, which are dropped by Sand Elementals during Sandstorms in the Desert biome. Forbidden Armor provides 34 defense, increases minion damage by 25%, and grants an additional minion slot. It also boosts magic damage and reduces mana usage, making it ideal for players who want to combine summoning with magic attacks. To farm Forbidden Fragments, you will need to trigger a Sandstorm by waiting for the weather event or using a Sandstorm in a Bottle. Equip accessories like the Magic Quiver or Celestial Cuffs to enhance your magic capabilities while farming.

The ultimate summoner armor in Terraria is Stardust Armor, which is crafted using 36 Luminite Bars and 45 Stardust Fragments. Luminite Bars are obtained by defeating the Moon Lord, while Stardust Fragments are dropped by the Stardust Pillar during the Lunar Events. Stardust Armor provides 38 defense, increases minion damage by 66%, and grants three additional minion slots. It also includes a set bonus that summons a Stardust Guardian, a powerful minion that deals massive damage to enemies. To obtain this armor, you must first defeat the Lunatic Cultist to trigger the Lunar Events. Focus on defeating the Stardust Pillar first to gather Stardust Fragments, then craft the armor as soon as possible. Equip accessories like the Papyrus Scarab and Necromantic Scroll to further boost your summoning capabilities.

When using summoner armor, it is important to focus on accessories that enhance your minions. The Summoner Emblem, Papyrus Scarab, and Necromantic Scroll are essential for increasing minion damage and capacity. Additionally, consider using the Hercules Beetle and Pygmy Necklace for further boosts. For survivability, equip the Ankh Shield to prevent debuffs and the Celestial Shell for increased stats. Buffs like the Summoning Potion and Bewitching Table are also crucial for maximizing your minion count and damage output.

A common mistake summoners make is neglecting their own survivability. While minions deal most of the damage, you still need to dodge attacks and avoid taking unnecessary hits. Build arenas with platforms, campfires, and heart lanterns to improve your mobility and regeneration during boss fights. Another mistake is not upgrading your minions as you progress. Always aim to use the strongest minion available, such as the Sanguine Staff or Terraprisma, to maximize your damage output.

Advanced techniques for summoners include using whips like the Kaleidoscope or Morning Star to boost minion damage and apply debuffs to enemies. Combining whips with fast-firing minions like the Stardust Dragon or Xeno Staff can create devastating combos. Additionally, consider using hybrid builds that incorporate magic or ranged weapons to deal extra damage while your minions focus on the primary target.

In summary, the best summoner armor for Hardmode in Terraria depends on your progression. Spider Armor is ideal for early Hardmode, Forbidden Armor is great for hybrid builds, and Stardust Armor is the ultimate choice for endgame summoners. Focus on enhancing your minions with accessories and buffs, and always prioritize survivability during combat. With the right preparation and strategy, summoners can dominate Hardmode and defeat even the toughest bosses.