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 summoning minions to fight for you. To maximize the effectiveness of a summoner build, choosing the right armor set is crucial. The best armor sets for a summoner depend on the stage of the game, as summoner gear evolves significantly as you progress. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of the best armor sets for a summoner build, along with strategies, tips, and considerations.

In the early game, the summoner class is limited in terms of armor options. The first viable summoner armor set is the Bee Armor, which can be crafted using Bee Wax dropped by the Queen Bee boss in the Jungle biome. This set increases your minion capacity by two and provides a small boost to minion damage. To obtain this set, youÔÇÖll need to defeat the Queen Bee multiple times to gather enough Bee Wax. The Bee Armor is a great starting point for summoners, as it allows you to summon more minions and deal more damage. However, itÔÇÖs important to note that summoners are relatively fragile in the early game, so youÔÇÖll need to rely on dodging and positioning to survive.

As you progress into the mid-game, the Obsidian Armor becomes a strong option. This set is crafted using Obsidian and Silk, and it provides significant bonuses to summoner damage and minion capacity. The Obsidian Armor also increases whip range and speed, making it a versatile choice for summoners who want to combine minions with melee-like whip attacks. To craft this set, youÔÇÖll need to gather Obsidian from the Underworld and Silk from Cobwebs. The Obsidian Armor is particularly effective against bosses like the Wall of Flesh, as it allows you to deal consistent damage with both minions and whips.

In the early Hardmode, the Spider Armor is the next major upgrade for summoners. This set is crafted using Spider Fangs, which are dropped by Black Recluses in the Spider Caves biome. The Spider Armor increases your minion capacity by three and provides a substantial boost to minion damage. This set is essential for tackling Hardmode bosses like the Destroyer and Skeletron Prime. To gather Spider Fangs, youÔÇÖll need to explore Spider Caves and defeat Black Recluses. Be cautious, as these enemies are dangerous and can deal significant damage if youÔÇÖre not prepared.

Once you reach the mid-to-late Hardmode, the Forbidden Armor becomes a viable option. This set is crafted using Forbidden Fragments, which are dropped by Sand Elementals in the Desert biome during a Sandstorm. The Forbidden Armor provides a balance of summoner and magic bonuses, making it a hybrid option for players who want to combine summoning with magic attacks. This set is particularly useful for dealing with events like the Pirate Invasion or the Martian Madness. To obtain Forbidden Fragments, youÔÇÖll need to farm Sand Elementals during a Sandstorm, which can be challenging but rewarding.

In the late game, the Stardust Armor is the ultimate summoner set. This set is crafted using Stardust Fragments, which are dropped by the Stardust Pillar during the Lunar Events. The Stardust Armor provides the highest minion capacity and damage bonuses in the game, making it the best choice for summoners. Additionally, the set bonus allows you to summon a powerful Stardust Guardian, which deals massive damage to enemies. To craft this set, youÔÇÖll need to defeat the Stardust Pillar and gather enough Stardust Fragments. The Stardust Armor is essential for taking on the Moon Lord, the final boss of Terraria.

When building a summoner character, itÔÇÖs important to consider accessories that complement your playstyle. Accessories like the Papyrus Scarab, Necromantic Scroll, and Summoner Emblem provide significant boosts to minion damage and capacity. Additionally, accessories like the Celestial Shell and Ankh Shield offer utility and survivability, which are crucial for summoners who are often squishy. Buffs and potions are also important, as they can significantly enhance your minionsÔÇÖ effectiveness. Potions like the Summoning Potion, Bewitching Table, and Wrath Potion are essential for maximizing your summoner build.

One common mistake summoners make is neglecting defense. While summoners rely on minions to deal damage, they are often vulnerable to enemy attacks. To mitigate this, consider using accessories like the Worm Scarf or Brain of Confusion, which provide damage reduction. Additionally, positioning and movement are key to surviving as a summoner. Use platforms, grappling hooks, and wings to stay mobile and avoid enemy attacks.

Advanced techniques for summoners include optimizing minion placement and using whips effectively. Minions can be directed to attack specific targets by right-clicking on enemies, which is useful for focusing on high-priority threats. Whips, like the Firecracker or Kaleidoscope, can be used to mark enemies, increasing the damage your minions deal to them. Combining these techniques with proper positioning and movement can make you a formidable summoner.

In summary, the best armor sets for a summoner build in Terraria are the Bee Armor in the early game, the Obsidian Armor in the mid-game, the Spider Armor in early Hardmode, the Forbidden Armor in mid-to-late Hardmode, and the Stardust Armor in the late game. Each set provides unique bonuses that enhance your minionsÔÇÖ effectiveness. By carefully selecting armor, accessories, and buffs, and by mastering advanced techniques, you can create a powerful summoner build capable of tackling TerrariaÔÇÖs toughest challenges.