What is the best armor set for a summoner build in Terraria?

The summoner class in Terraria is a unique and powerful playstyle that focuses on using minions to deal damage while the player avoids direct combat. To maximize the effectiveness of a summoner build, choosing the right armor set is crucial. The best armor set for a summoner depends on the stage of the game, as different armor sets become available as you progress. Here, we will discuss the best armor sets for summoners at various stages of the game, along with strategies, tips, and considerations to help you succeed.

In the early game, the best armor set for a summoner is the Bee Armor. This armor set is crafted using Bee Wax, which is dropped by the Queen Bee boss in the Jungle biome. The Bee Armor provides a significant boost to summon damage and increases the number of minions you can summon by one. To obtain this armor, you will need to defeat the Queen Bee multiple times to gather enough Bee Wax. The Queen Bee can be summoned by breaking a Larva in the Underground Jungle or by using an Abeemination, which is crafted using Honey Bottles, Stingers, and Hive blocks. Once you have the Bee Armor, you can summon additional minions, such as the Hornet Staff or the Imp Staff, to deal more damage.

As you progress into the mid-game, the best armor set for a summoner is the Spider Armor. This armor set is crafted using Spider Fangs, which are dropped by Black Recluses in the Spider Caves found in the Underground Jungle. The Spider Armor provides a substantial increase to summon damage and allows you to summon an additional minion. To craft the Spider Armor, you will need to gather 36 Spider Fangs. The Spider Armor is particularly effective when paired with the Spider Staff, which summons spider minions that can latch onto enemies and deal continuous damage. This combination is excellent for dealing with groups of enemies and bosses like the Wall of Flesh.

In the late game, the best armor set for a summoner is the Stardust Armor. This armor set is crafted using Stardust Fragments, which are dropped by the Stardust Pillar during the Lunar Events. The Stardust Armor provides the highest summon damage bonus in the game and allows you to summon an additional minion. The set bonus of the Stardust Armor is particularly powerful, as it summons a Stardust Guardian that follows you and attacks enemies. To obtain the Stardust Armor, you will need to defeat the Stardust Pillar multiple times to gather enough Stardust Fragments. The Stardust Armor is best paired with the Stardust Dragon Staff or the Stardust Cell Staff, both of which summon powerful minions that can deal massive damage to bosses and enemies.

When building a summoner character, it is important to consider accessories that enhance summon damage and minion capacity. Accessories like the Papyrus Scarab, Necromantic Scroll, and Summoner Emblem are essential for maximizing your summon damage. The Papyrus Scarab and Necromantic Scroll can be combined with the Hercules Beetle to create the Pygmy Necklace, which further increases minion damage and capacity. Additionally, the Celestial Shell and Celestial Stone provide overall stat boosts that benefit summoners.

Preparation is key when playing as a summoner. Always carry summoning potions, which increase your minion capacity, and bewitching tables, which can be found in the Dungeon and provide an additional minion slot. Buffs like the Wrath Potion and the Summoning Potion can significantly increase your damage output during boss fights. Building an arena with platforms, campfires, and heart lanterns can also help you survive longer in combat.

One common mistake summoners make is neglecting their own survivability. While minions deal most of the damage, you still need to avoid enemy attacks. Using accessories like the Worm Scarf or the Ankh Shield can help reduce damage taken. Additionally, using weapons like the Blade Staff or the Sanguine Staff can provide some personal defense by dealing damage to enemies that get too close.

Advanced techniques for summoners include using the Forbidden Armor set, which provides a mix of summon and magic damage bonuses. This set is crafted using Forbidden Fragments, which are dropped by Sand Elementals in the Desert biome during a Sandstorm. The Forbidden Armor allows you to summon a minion and cast powerful magic spells, making it a versatile choice for hybrid builds.

In summary, the best armor set for a summoner in Terraria depends on the stage of the game. Early game summoners should aim for the Bee Armor, mid-game summoners should use the Spider Armor, and late-game summoners should strive for the Stardust Armor. Always enhance your build with accessories that boost summon damage and minion capacity, and prepare thoroughly for boss fights with buffs and arenas. Avoid neglecting your own survivability and consider advanced techniques like hybrid builds for added versatility. With the right armor and strategy, a summoner build can be one of the most powerful and enjoyable playstyles in Terraria.