How do I increase my character's summon capacity in Terraria?

Increasing your character's summon capacity in Terraria is a key aspect of playing as a summoner or hybrid summoner class. Summon capacity determines how many minions you can have active at once, which directly impacts your damage output and survivability. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to increase your summon capacity, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

To start, summon capacity is increased through specific armor sets, accessories, and buffs. The base summon capacity is one minion, but this can be expanded significantly as you progress through the game. The first step is to craft or obtain summoner-specific armor. Early in the game, the Flinx Fur Coat, crafted from Flinx Fur and Silk, provides a +1 summon capacity. Later, you can upgrade to the Bee Armor, which is crafted from Bee Wax dropped by the Queen Bee boss. This set increases your summon capacity by +2 and also boosts minion damage. In Hardmode, the Spider Armor, crafted from Spider Fangs, offers +3 summon capacity and further enhances minion damage. Endgame armor like the Stardust Armor, crafted from Stardust Fragments, provides the highest summon capacity boost of +5, along with powerful minion bonuses.

Accessories are another crucial way to increase summon capacity. The Pygmy Necklace, dropped by Plantera, grants +1 summon capacity. This can be upgraded to the Hercules Beetle, which also increases minion damage. The Papyrus Scarab, crafted from the Hercules Beetle and Necromantic Scroll, combines both summon capacity and damage boosts. Additionally, the Summoner Emblem, dropped by the Wall of Flesh, increases minion damage but does not directly increase summon capacity. However, itÔÇÖs still a valuable accessory for summoners. Equipping these accessories in your accessory slots will significantly enhance your summoning capabilities.

Buffs and potions can also temporarily increase your summon capacity. The Summoning Potion, crafted from Bottled Water, Moonglow, and Variegated Lardfish, grants +1 summon capacity for 8 minutes. This is particularly useful during boss fights or challenging events. Additionally, the Bewitching Table, found in Dungeons, provides a +1 summon capacity buff when interacted with. Combining these buffs with your armor and accessories can give you a substantial boost in minion count.

When preparing to increase your summon capacity, itÔÇÖs important to gather the necessary resources. For example, farming Queen Bee for Bee Wax or Plantera for the Pygmy Necklace requires preparation. Make sure to have appropriate weapons, armor, and potions for these fights. In Hardmode, farming Spider Fangs in Spider Caves or Stardust Fragments from the Stardust Pillar will require strong gear and strategy. Always carry a summoning weapon, such as the Imp Staff or Spider Staff, to assist in combat.

A common mistake is neglecting other aspects of your character while focusing solely on summon capacity. While having multiple minions is powerful, you should also invest in defense, mobility, and utility accessories. For example, Wings, Shield of Cthulhu, or Frostspark Boots can help you avoid damage and position yourself effectively during battles. Additionally, balancing your loadout with weapons from other classes, such as a ranged or magic weapon, can provide versatility in combat.

Advanced techniques include optimizing your accessory loadout with modifiers. Reforging accessories to have the Warding modifier (+4 defense) or Menacing modifier (+4% damage) can significantly improve your survivability or damage output. Additionally, combining accessories at the TinkererÔÇÖs Workshop, such as creating the Papyrus Scarab, allows you to save accessory slots while still gaining multiple benefits.

In specific scenarios, such as boss fights or invasions, having a high summon capacity can make a significant difference. For example, during the Pumpkin Moon or Frost Moon events, summoning multiple minions can help you clear waves of enemies quickly. Against bosses like Duke Fishron or the Moon Lord, a well-optimized summoner build can deal consistent damage while you focus on dodging attacks.

In summary, increasing your summon capacity in Terraria involves a combination of armor, accessories, buffs, and strategic preparation. By focusing on summoner-specific gear, gathering necessary resources, and balancing your loadout, you can maximize your minion count and effectiveness. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting defense or utility, and consider advanced techniques like reforging and accessory combinations. With the right approach, you can create a powerful summoner character capable of tackling TerrariaÔÇÖs toughest challenges.