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 you are in, as summoner gear evolves significantly as you progress. Here is a detailed breakdown of the best armor sets for a summoner build, along with strategies, tips, and considerations.

Early Game: In the early stages of the game, summoners have limited options. The best armor set for a summoner at this stage is the Bee Armor, which is crafted using Bee Wax dropped by the Queen Bee boss. The Bee Armor provides a significant boost to minion damage and increases the number of minions you can summon. To obtain this armor, you will need to defeat the Queen Bee, which can be found in the Underground Jungle. Crafting the full set requires 30 Bee Wax, which is dropped in large quantities by the Queen Bee. The Bee Armor is particularly effective when paired with the Hornet Staff, a summon weapon also dropped by the Queen Bee. This combination allows you to summon multiple hornets to attack enemies, making it a strong early-game setup.

Mid Game: As you progress into the mid-game, the Spider Armor becomes the best option for summoners. This armor set is crafted using Spider Fangs, which are dropped by Black Recluses found in Spider Caves. The Spider Armor provides a substantial increase to minion damage and allows you to summon an additional minion. Crafting the full set requires 36 Spider Fangs. The Spider Armor is particularly effective when paired with the Spider Staff, which summons spider minions that deal high damage and have a unique ability to latch onto enemies. This combination is highly effective for dealing with groups of enemies and can be used to tackle tougher bosses like the Wall of Flesh.

Late Game: 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 obtained by defeating the Celestial Pillars during the Lunar Events. The Stardust Armor provides a massive boost to minion damage and increases the number of minions you can summon. Crafting the full set requires 36 Luminite Bars and 45 Stardust Fragments. The Stardust Armor is particularly effective when paired with the Stardust Dragon Staff or the Stardust Cell Staff, both of which summon powerful minions that deal high damage and have unique abilities. The Stardust Dragon Staff summons a dragon that grows in length and damage as it attacks, while the Stardust Cell Staff summons cells that explode on contact with enemies. This combination is highly effective for dealing with endgame bosses like the Moon Lord.

Important Tips and Considerations: When playing as a summoner, it is important to focus on increasing your minion count and damage. Accessories like the Papyrus Scarab, Necromantic Scroll, and Summoner Emblem can significantly boost your minion damage and summon count. Additionally, using buff potions like the Summoning Potion and Bewitching Table can further increase your minion count. It is also important to manage your minions effectively, as they can be a key factor in defeating tough enemies and bosses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: One common mistake summoners make is neglecting their own defense. While minions are powerful, you still need to survive enemy attacks. Make sure to invest in accessories that provide defense and mobility, such as the Worm Scarf or Ankh Shield. Another mistake is not upgrading your armor and weapons as you progress. Always aim to obtain the best available gear for your current stage of the game.

Advanced Techniques and Optimizations: To optimize your summoner build, consider using hybrid setups that combine summoner gear with other class-specific items. For example, using a mix of summoner and magic accessories can provide additional utility and damage. Additionally, using mounts like the UFO Mount can provide mobility and allow you to focus on summoning minions without worrying about movement.

Resource Requirements and Preparation: Crafting the best summoner armor sets requires specific materials that are obtained from bosses or rare enemies. Make sure to prepare adequately by gathering the necessary resources and crafting materials. For example, defeating the Queen Bee multiple times will ensure you have enough Bee Wax for the Bee Armor, while farming Black Recluses will provide the Spider Fangs needed for the Spider Armor.

Class/Equipment Considerations: When building a summoner character, it is important to focus on accessories and weapons that complement your minions. Accessories like the Pygmy Necklace and Hercules Beetle can further increase your minion count and damage. Additionally, using weapons like the Terraprisma or the Kaleidoscope can provide additional utility and damage.

Specific Examples and Scenarios: For example, when facing the Wall of Flesh, using the Bee Armor and Hornet Staff can provide a strong early-game setup. As you progress to the mid-game, switching to the Spider Armor and Spider Staff will allow you to tackle tougher enemies and bosses. Finally, in the late game, using the Stardust Armor and Stardust Dragon Staff will provide the power needed to defeat the Moon Lord and other endgame bosses.

In conclusion, the best armor set for a summoner build in Terraria depends on your current stage of the game. By focusing on increasing your minion count and damage, managing your resources effectively, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a powerful summoner character capable of tackling Terraria's toughest challenges.