How do I unlock the best endgame weapons for a melee build in Terraria?

To unlock the best endgame weapons for a melee build in Terraria, you need to progress through the game's content systematically, focusing on acquiring powerful weapons, armor, and accessories that synergize with the melee playstyle. The endgame for melee builds revolves around defeating the Moon Lord, the final boss, and obtaining his drops, which include some of the strongest melee weapons in the game. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you achieve this.

First, you need to prepare for the Lunar Events, which are the final challenges before facing the Moon Lord. To trigger the Lunar Events, you must defeat the Lunatic Cultist, found at the Dungeon entrance after defeating the Golem. Once the Lunatic Cultist is defeated, four Celestial Pillars will spawn in your world, each representing a different class: Solar (melee), Vortex (ranged), Nebula (magic), and Stardust (summoner). For a melee build, focus on the Solar Pillar, as it drops fragments used to craft powerful melee weapons and armor.

Before tackling the Lunar Events, ensure you have the best pre-Lunar gear. The Beetle Armor, crafted from Beetle Husks dropped by the Golem, is the strongest melee armor available at this stage. It provides excellent defense and melee bonuses. Pair this with accessories like the Warrior Emblem, Fire Gauntlet, and Celestial Shell, which boost melee damage, attack speed, and overall survivability. Additionally, use the Ankh Shield for immunity to debuffs and the Master Ninja Gear for dodging attacks.

For weapons, the Terra Blade is a solid choice before the Lunar Events. It is crafted by combining the True Excalibur and True NightÔÇÖs Edge, which are upgraded versions of their respective swords. The Terra Blade fires a projectile with each swing, making it versatile for both close and ranged combat. Another strong option is the Influx Waver, dropped by the Martian Saucer during the Martian Madness event. This weapon also fires projectiles and deals high damage.

Once youÔÇÖre ready, defeat the Solar Pillar to obtain Solar Fragments. These fragments are used to craft the Solar Eruption, one of the best melee weapons in the game. The Solar Eruption is a flail-like weapon that extends through blocks and deals massive damage to multiple enemies. It is particularly effective against the Moon Lord due to its ability to hit multiple segments of his body.

After collecting enough Solar Fragments, craft the Solar Flare Armor, which provides the highest melee bonuses and defense in the game. This armor set increases melee damage, critical strike chance, and melee speed, making it essential for endgame melee builds.

Next, prepare for the Moon Lord fight. Use a large, flat arena with platforms for mobility. Place Heart Lanterns, Campfires, and Honey Pools for regeneration. Stock up on buff potions like Ironskin, Endurance, and Lifeforce to increase survivability. The Solar Eruption is your primary weapon, but keep the Daybreak, a spear that inflicts a damage-over-time debuff, as a secondary option.

During the Moon Lord fight, focus on dodging his attacks while dealing consistent damage with the Solar Eruption. His eyes and core are the primary targets. Use the Master Ninja Gear to dodge his powerful laser attacks and keep moving to avoid his Phantasmal Spheres.

After defeating the Moon Lord, youÔÇÖll obtain the Meowmere and Star Wrath, two of the strongest melee weapons in Terraria. The Meowmere fires explosive cat projectiles, while the Star Wrath summons falling stars with each swing. Both weapons are excellent for clearing enemies and dealing massive damage.

In summary, unlocking the best endgame melee weapons involves progressing through the Lunar Events, crafting powerful gear, and defeating the Moon Lord. Focus on acquiring the Solar Eruption and Solar Flare Armor, and use buffs and accessories to maximize your melee potential. With proper preparation and strategy, youÔÇÖll be able to dominate TerrariaÔÇÖs endgame content with a melee build.