What is the best armor set for a summoner in early Hardmode Terraria?

In early Hardmode Terraria, summoners face a significant challenge due to the increased difficulty of enemies and bosses. To survive and thrive, summoners need to focus on acquiring the best armor set available at this stage, which is the Spider Armor. This armor set is specifically designed for summoners and provides excellent bonuses to minion damage and capacity, making it a crucial upgrade for this class.

The Spider Armor set consists of three pieces: the Spider Mask, Spider Breastplate, and Spider Greaves. When worn together, this set grants a total of 20 defense, increases minion damage by 28%, and allows for an additional minion slot. These bonuses are essential for summoners, as they directly enhance the effectiveness of their minions, which are the primary source of damage for this class.

To craft the Spider Armor, you will need to gather Spider Fangs, which are dropped by Black Recluses found in Spider Caves. These caves are typically located in the Underground or Cavern layers of the world. Black Recluses are dangerous enemies, so it is important to prepare adequately before venturing into these areas. Equip yourself with strong weapons, such as the Blade of Grass or the Bee's Knees, and ensure you have good mobility accessories like the Spectre Boots or Lightning Boots to avoid their attacks.

Once you have collected 36 Spider Fangs, you can craft the Spider Armor at an Anvil. The Spider Mask requires 12 Spider Fangs, the Spider Breastplate requires 16 Spider Fangs, and the Spider Greaves require 8 Spider Fangs. Crafting the full set will significantly boost your summoning capabilities, allowing you to summon more minions and deal more damage.

In addition to the Spider Armor, summoners should also focus on obtaining powerful summon weapons. The Spider Staff is an excellent choice for early Hardmode, as it summons spider minions that deal consistent damage and have a chance to inflict the Venom debuff. To craft the Spider Staff, you will need 16 Spider Fangs and a Tattered Cloth, which is dropped by Angry Trappers in the Jungle. The Spider Staff is a reliable weapon that complements the Spider Armor well.

Another important consideration for summoners is the use of accessories that enhance minion damage and capacity. The Pygmy Necklace, which increases minion capacity by one, is a valuable accessory that can be obtained from the Witch Doctor NPC after defeating Plantera. However, in early Hardmode, you can use the Hercules Beetle, which increases minion damage by 15%. This accessory is dropped by the Hardmode Jungle enemies, such as the Moss Hornet or the Derpling.

When preparing for boss battles in early Hardmode, summoners should focus on maximizing their minion damage and survivability. Equip the Spider Armor, Spider Staff, and Hercules Beetle, and consider using buff potions such as the Summoning Potion, which increases minion capacity by one, and the Wrath Potion, which increases damage by 10%. Additionally, the Bewitching Table, found in Dungeons, can provide an extra minion slot when used.

One common mistake summoners make is neglecting their own survivability. While minions are the primary source of damage, summoners still need to avoid enemy attacks and stay alive. Ensure you have good mobility accessories and consider using defensive accessories like the Worm Scarf or the Charm of Myths to increase your survivability.

Advanced techniques for summoners include using the Queen Spider Staff, which summons a stationary spider turret that attacks enemies within range. This staff can be crafted using 24 Spider Fangs and is particularly useful for boss battles, as it provides additional damage without requiring constant attention.

In summary, the Spider Armor is the best armor set for summoners in early Hardmode Terraria. It provides significant bonuses to minion damage and capacity, making it essential for this class. To craft the Spider Armor, gather Spider Fangs from Black Recluses in Spider Caves and craft the set at an Anvil. Equip the Spider Staff and Hercules Beetle for additional minion damage, and use buff potions and accessories to enhance your survivability. By focusing on these strategies, summoners can effectively tackle the challenges of early Hardmode and progress further in the game.