What are the best weapons for a summoner build in Terraria?

In Terraria, a summoner build focuses on using minions and sentries to deal damage while the player avoids direct combat. This playstyle requires careful planning and progression to maximize effectiveness. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to build and optimize a summoner character.

To start, summoners rely on summon weapons, which call minions or sentries to fight for them. These weapons are unique because they donÔÇÖt require constant input from the player, allowing you to focus on dodging and positioning. Early in the game, youÔÇÖll want to craft the Slime Staff, which is a rare drop from slimes. While itÔÇÖs not the strongest, itÔÇÖs a good starting point. Alternatively, you can obtain the Finch Staff from living wood chests in the Underground Jungle. This staff summons a bird minion and is more reliable early on.

As you progress, youÔÇÖll need to upgrade your summon weapons. In pre-Hardmode, the Hornet Staff, crafted from Bee Wax dropped by the Queen Bee, is a strong option. It summons hornets that deal ranged damage. Another good choice is the Imp Staff, crafted from Hellstone Bars, which summons imps that fire fireballs. These weapons will carry you through pre-Hardmode and into Hardmode.

Once you enter Hardmode, your options expand significantly. The Spider Staff, crafted from Spider Fangs found in the Spider Caves, is a great early Hardmode summon weapon. It summons spiders that latch onto enemies and deal continuous damage. Later, you can obtain the Blade Staff from Queen Slime, which is one of the best summon weapons in the game due to its high attack speed and armor penetration.

For endgame summoners, the Terraprisma is the ultimate weapon. ItÔÇÖs obtained by defeating the Empress of Light during the day, which is a challenging fight. The Terraprisma summons powerful swords that deal massive damage and have excellent tracking. Another top-tier option is the Stardust Dragon Staff, crafted from Stardust Fragments. It summons a dragon that grows longer and stronger as you summon more minions.

Armor is crucial for summoners. In pre-Hardmode, the Bee Armor, crafted from Bee Wax, is the best choice. It increases your minion count and damage. In Hardmode, the Spider Armor is a good early option, followed by the Forbidden Armor, which also provides magic bonuses. For endgame, the Stardust Armor is the best, as it significantly boosts minion damage and count.

Accessories are another key component. The Pygmy Necklace, obtained from the Witch Doctor, increases your minion count. The Hercules Beetle and Papyrus Scarab further enhance minion damage. The Summoner Emblem, dropped by the Wall of Flesh, boosts summon damage. Combining these with movement accessories like the Wings and Shield of Cthulhu will help you stay mobile and avoid damage.

Buffs and potions are essential for maximizing your summonerÔÇÖs effectiveness. The Summoning Potion increases your minion count, while the Bewitching Table, found in Dungeons, provides a similar effect. The Wrath and Rage Potions boost damage and critical strike chance, respectively. Always keep a supply of these potions for tough battles.

One common mistake is neglecting defense. While summoners focus on minions, you still need to survive. Prioritize accessories that provide mobility and defense, such as the Ankh Shield and Frostspark Boots. Another mistake is not managing minion placement. Use the Right-Click function to direct your minions to specific targets, especially during boss fights.

Advanced techniques include using sentries alongside minions. The Queen Spider Staff summons a sentry that deals damage over time, complementing your minions. Additionally, combining summoner gear with other classes can create hybrid builds. For example, using magic weapons like the Rainbow Rod alongside minions can provide additional damage output.

Resource management is important. Always gather materials for potions and crafting. Farming enemies for rare drops, like the Slime Staff, can be time-consuming but rewarding. Prepare thoroughly before boss fights by setting up arenas with platforms, campfires, and heart lanterns for regeneration.

In summary, a summoner build in Terraria requires careful progression through summon weapons, armor, and accessories. Focus on increasing minion count and damage while maintaining mobility and defense. Use buffs and potions to enhance your effectiveness, and avoid common mistakes like neglecting defense or poor minion management. With the right preparation and strategy, a summoner build can be incredibly powerful and rewarding.