What is the best weapon to use against the Solar Pillar's crawltipedes in Terraria?

The Solar Pillar is one of the four Celestial Pillars in Terraria, and it is widely considered one of the most challenging due to the presence of Crawltipedes, fast and deadly enemies that are highly resistant to damage unless attacked in a specific way. To effectively deal with Crawltipedes, you need to understand their mechanics and use the right weapons and strategies.

Crawltipedes are unique enemies that only target players who are airborne. They have a segmented body, and each segment can take damage, but the head is the only part that counts for killing the creature. If you attack the body segments, the Crawltipede will take minimal damage, making it nearly impossible to defeat unless you focus on the head. Additionally, Crawltipedes deal massive damage and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. This means you need to avoid flying or jumping excessively while fighting them.

The best weapon to use against Crawltipedes is a ranged weapon, specifically one that can target the head accurately. The Phantasm, a powerful bow dropped by the Lunatic Cultist, is an excellent choice. It fires multiple arrows rapidly and can home in on the Crawltipede's head, making it easier to deal consistent damage. Another great option is the Vortex Beater, a gun obtained from the Vortex Pillar. It has high damage output and can be paired with Chlorophyte Bullets, which home in on enemies, ensuring you hit the Crawltipede's head even if your aim is slightly off.

For melee players, the Solar Eruption is a strong choice. It is a flail-like weapon that extends and retracts, allowing you to hit the Crawltipede's head while staying grounded. However, melee players must be cautious, as getting too close to the Crawltipede can result in taking significant damage. Magic users can rely on the Razorblade Typhoon or the Lunar Flare, both of which have homing capabilities and can target the Crawltipede's head effectively. Summoners can use the Stardust Dragon or the Xeno Staff, as their minions will automatically target the Crawltipede's head.

To prepare for the Solar Pillar fight, ensure you have the best armor and accessories for your chosen class. For ranged players, the Vortex Armor set is ideal, as it increases ranged damage and provides stealth bonuses. Melee players should use Solar Flare Armor, which boosts melee damage and provides strong defense. Magic users benefit from Nebula Armor, which enhances magic damage and provides mana regeneration. Summoners should equip Stardust Armor to maximize minion effectiveness. Accessories like the Celestial Shell, Ankh Shield, and Wings are essential for survivability and mobility.

Buff potions are crucial for this fight. Endurance Potions, Ironskin Potions, and Lifeforce Potions will increase your survivability, while Damage Potions like Archery Potions (for ranged), Magic Power Potions (for magic), and Summoning Potions (for summoners) will boost your damage output. Swiftness Potions can help you move quickly on the ground, reducing the need to jump or fly.

A common mistake is relying too much on flight during the Solar Pillar fight. Crawltipedes are designed to punish airborne players, so staying grounded is key. Use platforms or flat terrain to move around without jumping excessively. Another mistake is attacking the body segments of the Crawltipede, which wastes time and resources. Always aim for the head to deal meaningful damage.

Advanced techniques include using traps and environmental hazards to your advantage. Lava traps or Dart Traps can help deal with smaller enemies while you focus on Crawltipedes. Additionally, building a small arena with Heart Lanterns, Campfires, and Honey Pools can provide healing and regeneration, making the fight more manageable.

In summary, the best weapon to use against Crawltipedes depends on your class, but ranged weapons like the Phantasm or Vortex Beater are highly effective. Stay grounded, focus on the head, and use buffs and accessories to maximize your damage and survivability. Avoid common mistakes like flying or attacking the body, and consider advanced techniques like traps and healing stations to optimize your strategy. With proper preparation and execution, you can overcome the Solar Pillar and its challenging Crawltipedes.