What are the best weapons for a summoner in Terraria?

The summoner class in Terraria is a unique and powerful playstyle that focuses on using minions and sentries to deal damage while the player avoids direct combat. To optimize a summoner build, you need to focus on weapons, armor, accessories, and buffs that enhance your minions' effectiveness. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you achieve the best summoner setup in Terraria.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of summoner weapons. Summoner weapons are divided into two main types: minions and sentries. Minions are creatures that follow you and attack enemies automatically, while sentries are stationary turrets that fire at enemies within range. Both types of weapons require summoning slots, which are increased by wearing summoner armor and using specific accessories. The number of minions you can summon is crucial, as more minions mean more damage output.

To start, youÔÇÖll want to focus on obtaining the best summoner weapons for each stage of the game. Early-game summoners can use the Slime Staff, which is rare but effective. A more reliable option is the Finch Staff, obtained from living wood chests. As you progress, you can craft the Imp Staff using Hellstone bars, which is a significant upgrade. In Hardmode, the Spider Staff is a great early option, followed by the Blade Staff from Queen Slime. Late-game weapons like the Terraprisma, obtained from the Empress of Light, and the Stardust Dragon Staff, crafted from Stardust Fragments, are among the most powerful summoner weapons.

Armor is another critical aspect of a summoner build. Early-game armor like the Flinx Fur Coat provides a small boost to summon damage. In Hardmode, the Spider Armor is a solid choice, offering increased minion capacity and damage. Later, you can upgrade to the Tiki Armor and then the Spooky Armor, which provides even greater bonuses. The endgame Stardust Armor is the best summoner armor, granting a massive boost to minion damage and allowing you to summon an additional minion.

Accessories play a vital role in enhancing your summoner build. The Pygmy Necklace, obtained from the Witch Doctor, increases your minion capacity. The Papyrus Scarab, crafted from the Hercules Beetle and Necromantic Scroll, further boosts minion damage and capacity. The Summoner Emblem, dropped by the Wall of Flesh, increases summon damage. Other useful accessories include the Celestial Shell, which provides various stat boosts, and the Avenger Emblem, which increases overall damage. DonÔÇÖt forget to reforge your accessories to the best possible modifiers, such as Menacing for increased damage or Warding for extra defense.

Buffs and potions are essential for maximizing your summonerÔÇÖs effectiveness. The Summoning Potion increases your minion capacity, while the Bewitching Table, found in Dungeons, provides a temporary minion slot. Other useful potions include the Wrath Potion for increased damage, the Endurance Potion for reduced damage taken, and the Swiftness Potion for improved mobility. Always carry a variety of buffs to adapt to different situations.

When it comes to combat strategies, positioning is key. As a summoner, you rely on your minions to deal damage, so you need to stay mobile and avoid direct confrontation. Use platforms and terrain to your advantage, creating spaces where you can move freely while your minions attack. Sentries can be placed strategically to cover choke points or protect you from incoming enemies. During boss fights, focus on dodging attacks while your minions do the work. Use weapons like the Sanguine Staff or Terraprisma for consistent damage output.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting defense and mobility. While summoners rely on minions for damage, you still need to survive. Ensure you have enough defense and mobility to avoid taking unnecessary hits. Another mistake is not maximizing your minion capacity. Always use accessories and buffs that increase your minion slots to maximize damage output.

Advanced techniques include using hybrid builds that combine summoner weapons with other classes. For example, you can use a summoner weapon alongside a ranged or magic weapon to deal additional damage. This approach allows you to adapt to different situations and enemies. Additionally, optimizing your accessory loadout for specific scenarios, such as boss fights or exploration, can make a significant difference.

Resource requirements for a summoner build include materials for crafting weapons and armor, as well as potions and accessories. Early-game materials like wood, stone, and Hellstone are essential for crafting basic summoner gear. In Hardmode, youÔÇÖll need Spider Fangs, Chlorophyte, and Stardust Fragments for advanced weapons and armor. Always gather resources efficiently and plan your crafting progression to stay ahead of the gameÔÇÖs challenges.

In summary, the best summoner build in Terraria involves a combination of powerful weapons, specialized armor, and optimized accessories. Focus on increasing your minion capacity and damage output while maintaining good defense and mobility. Use buffs and potions to enhance your performance, and employ strategic positioning during combat. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting defense and not maximizing minion capacity. With the right preparation and strategy, you can create a highly effective summoner character capable of tackling TerrariaÔÇÖs toughest challenges.